Revenue from port fees charged to cruise ship passengers are usually earmarked for enhancements and updates to port facilities and infrastructure. (Especial/Cuartoscuro)
Last week, Mexico’s lower house of Congress voted to impose a US $42 immigration fee on every passenger of each cruise ship that docks at one of the country’s ports.
With the bill now in the hands of the Senate, cruise ship lines are pleading with President Claudia Sheinbaum to veto the legislation, should it be approved by the upper house.
Cozumel, the world’s busiest port of call, welcomed 4.2 million cruise passengers in 2023 who spent $392 million while in port, according to a report by the FCCA. (Elizabeth Ruiz/Cuartoscuro)
The Florida and Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), which represents 20 cruise line companies, sent a letter to Sheinbaum over the weekend, notifying her of the group’s opposition to the proposed tax, according to the tourism industry website Reportur.com.
The Mexican Association of Shipping Agents (Amanac) has also voiced opposition to the proposal, according to the magazine Forbes. “If this measure is implemented, it would make Mexican ports among the most expensive in the world, severely affecting their competitiveness with other Caribbean destinations,” it said.
Cruise Radio reported that cruise lines could respond to the hefty fees by skipping Mexican ports of call, a move that could prove to be disastrous for several resorts and locations, such as Cozumel, that are heavily reliant on tourism.
The new immigration tax, once combined with the Quintana Roo state tax of $5, would bring the total cost to US $47 per cruise passenger. (Especial/Cuartoscuro)
What consequences might the new tax have for Mexico’s cruise tourism industry?
Cruise lines and their destination ports typically work together to decide what taxes and port fees are reasonable, and usually, these are directed to help finance enhancements and updates to port facilities and infrastructure.
Historically, cruise passengers have been exempted from paying immigration fees in Mexico because they are considered “in transit,” and not staying overnight on land.
The FCCA warns that cruise developments in Mexico, such as Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day Mexico private destination near Costa Maya, and other cruise port investments could be affected by the new tax.
According to the Amanac, 10 million passengers and 3,300 cruise ships are expected to arrive in Mexico throughout 2025.
There are currently 11 airlines operating out of Tulum, serving 15 destinations. (Mara Lezama vía X)
The Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport in Tulum, Quintana Roo, celebrated its first full year of operations on Sunday, surpassing expectations for passenger traffic. Last year, it became the fourth international airport in the area surrounding the Riviera Maya, joining the Cancún, Chetumal and Cozumel airports.
“The International Air Transport Association projected that we would receive 700,000 passengers in this first year,” Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa said in a statement. “However, thanks to the joint work, vision and commitment to our state, we have far exceeded that goal, reaching more than 1,074,000 passengers and 8,500 air operations as of Nov. 21. And we still have one month left to close the year!”
The Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC) recorded 942,093 travelers aboard 7,627 flights to Tulum between January and October. (Mario Jasso/Cuartoscuro)
The Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC) recorded visitor traffic of 942,093 travelers aboard 7,627 flights to Tulum between January and October, and by Nov. 4, visitor numbers had surpassed one million.
Tulum is located approximately two hours by car from Cancún. After the Mexico City International Airport (AICM), Cancún is the second most-visited airport in the country and the primary airport for incoming international travelers.
The “terminal sells itself by being in a privileged world destination,” said the general director of the National Institute of Legal-Aeronautical Research (INIJA), Pablo Casas Lías, in an interview with the newspaper Reforma. He added that due to its success, the airport may soon face saturation problems.
Rogelio Rodríguez, an air sector specialist, stressed the importance of carrying out better marketing to attract visitors who are thinking of traveling to the Riviera Maya via Cancún.
Con 673 operaciones aéreas el sábado ✈️, y alrededor de medio millón de visitantes nacionales y extranjeros, nuestro estado se sigue consolidando como destino mundial 🌎.
Works began on the Tulum airport in 2022, and were completed on Nov. 30, 2023. Construction is estimated to have cost 19.2 billion pesos (US $939.3 million).
There are currently 11 airlines operating out of Tulum, serving 15 destinations. Nationally, Aeroméxico, Viva Aerobús and Mexicana de Aviación connect with the Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) in Mexico City, while Viva Aerobús also flies from Tulum to Monterrey and Guadalajara.
International routes include:
JetBlue to New York City
American Airlines to Miami, Charlotte and Dallas
Air Canada to Montreal and Toronto
Delta to Atlanta
United Airlines to Houston, Chicago and Newark
Copa Airlines connects Tulum with South America via Panama
Sunwing to Montreal
Four airlines will open new routes to Tulum in December, improving connectivity between the Mexican Caribbean and Canada, as well as South America. Discover Airlines will also launch the first direct flight from Tulum to Europe, connecting with Frankfurt.
Polvorones are the perfect sweet for Christmas time. Here's the only recipe you'll need to bake up your own. (Canva)
It’s Christmastime, time for those traditional, nuttery-buttery, melt-in-your-mouth Mexican recipes that we all love — like polvorones! But how did wedding cookies in Mexico become synonymous with Christmas?
Mexican wedding cookies, also known as polvorones, can be traced back to medieval Arabian culinary tradition, where cookies were made with rich spices, butter, sugar, and nuts. The recipe, and its variations, then traveled the trade routes and made its way to Europe and ultimately to Spain.
Also known as polvorones, can trace their history back to medieval Arabian culinary tradition. (Marianne Perdomo/Wikimedia Commons)
The name polvorones comes from the Spanish word polvo, or dust, that is evident in the cookie’s crumbly texture and the powdered sugar that’s used to “dust” them. The cookies became very popular, and the Spanish brought the recipe with them to Mexico with the colonizers in the 16th century. Because they symbolize happiness and unity, they naturally became traditional wedding treats, but they also exemplified joy, and therefore became a perfect sweet to serve at festive occasions, especially Christmas.
The term “Mexican Wedding Cookie” gained traction in the U.S. in the 1950s, when the recipe became a favorite of American cookbooks, replacing the similar Russian Tea Cake (due to Cold War sentiments). It was also given this moniker in the States because it was known for its popularity at Mexican weddings. However, the first known mention of the cookie as “Mexican” appeared in a 1937 issue of American Cookery, meaning the cookie had gained recognition long before they became popular.
The Mexican Wedding Cookie, however, is different in texture than the Russian Tea Cake, due to its higher flour-to-nut ratio, making it more crumbly and sandier to the bite. It also tastes butterier and is often infused with vanilla. Some variations may even include cinnamon and anise. The Tea Cake, however, is denser because the nuts (traditionally, walnuts) in the recipe are finely ground, making the cookie chewy, giving it a pronounced nutty taste.
Once again, these cookies, like so many other foods in Mexico, represent an incredible blending of cultures, that are treasured today for their rich, wonderful flavor and for their symbolism of happiness, unity and joy that they have come to embellish.
Mexican wedding cakes: the recipe
Recipe adapted from wenthere8this.com. (Tamorlan/Wikimedia Commons)
Ingredients:
½ Cup (115 g) unsalted butter* (softened) (mantequilla sin sal)
½ Cup (115 g) salted butter* (softened) (mantequilla)
Best Mexican brands: Lala; Gloria; Alpura; Aguascalientes; Flor de Alfalfa.
½ Cup (50 g) powdered sugar plus ½ Cup (50 g) for coating (azúcar glas)
1 tsp. (4.2 g) vanilla extract* (extracto de vanilla)
Mexican brands noted for their intense flavor: Villa Vainilla; Vainilla Totonac’s; Molina Vainilla
2 Cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
Use only U.S. flour, available online.
½ tsp. (1.5 g) coarse sea salt (sal gruesa)
1 Cup (100 g) pecans toasted and finely chopped (nueces pecanas)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Next:
Combine softened butter, ½ Cup powdered sugar and vanilla and beat until fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
Add flour and salt and mix until a dough starts to form.
Once the flour is about 80% incorporated, add the chopped pecans.
Mix together, but do not over mix.
Roll the dough into 1 ½ inch balls and place 2 inches apart on baking sheet.
Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the bottoms of the cookies are lightly browned.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes on baking sheet.
Place cookies on a wire cooling rack to finish cooling.
In a container with lid, place ½ Cup powdered sugar.
When cookies are cooled completely, place several in the container at one time. Cover with lid, and gently turn the container to coat the cookies with sugar.
You can repeat this step for additional coating.
Disfruta!
Deborah McCoy is the one-time author of mainstream, bridal-reference books who has turned her attention to food, particularly sweets, desserts and fruits. She is the founder of CakeChatter™ on FaceBook and X (Twitter), and the author of four baking books for “Dough Punchers” via CakeChatter (available @amazon.com). She is also the president of The American Academy of Wedding Professionals™ (aa-wp.com).
Giant Motors Latinoamérica, a joint venture between the Massri family and billionaire businessman Carlos Slim's financial company Inbursa, assembles JAC vehicles at a plant in Ciudad Sahagún, Hidalgo. (Giant Motors)
The CEO of the only company that makes Chinese vehicles in Mexico is unfazed by the possibility that new tariffs could be imposed on Mexican exports and imports of foreign goods to Mexico.
Elías Massri, chairman of the board and CEO of Giant Motors Latinoamérica, spoke to the Bloomberg news agency about Donald Trump’s threats to slap tariffs on Mexican exports as well as the possibility that Mexico could impose new or additional duties on imports from countries such as China.
CEO of Giant Motors Latinoamérica Elías Massri told Bloomberg that “if [the U.S.] changes the rules, we are ready to play by them.” (LinkedIn)Giant Motors Latinoamérica, a joint venture between the Massri family and billionaire businessman Carlos Slim’s financial company Inbursa, assembles JAC vehicles at a plant in Ciudad Sahagún, Hidalgo. The company, which was founded in 2006 with 100% Mexican capital and describes itself as “proudly Mexican,” does not export cars to the United States and has no current plans to do so, meaning that it wouldn’t be affected by any tariffs imposed by the second Trump administration.
Still, Massri told Bloomberg that “if they change the rules, we are ready to play by them.”
“There have already been many battles, and we have not stopped investing what is required and earning profits,” Massri said.
According to Bloomberg, the CEO said that “Giant Motors’ ambitions are narrowly focused on the Mexican market, and the company will not be poking the bear by attempting to export vehicles to the U.S.”
Massri also said that if new tariffs were imposed on imports to Mexico — products from China, for example — his company could source auto parts and components from countries that are on favorable trade terms with Mexico. “There are free trade agreements in Mexico with many parts of the world,” he said.
Donald Trump threatened to slap 25% tariffs on all Mexican exports last week. (Donald Trump/Truth Social)
As Mexico comes under increasing pressure from the United States and Canada over its trade relationship with China and Chinese investment in a range of sectors of the Mexican economy, the Mexican government could increase tariffs on Chinese imports.
Giant Motors wants to grow, but will more Chinese cars be made in Mexico?
Bloomberg reported that Giant Motors began manufacturing JAC vehicles in Mexico in 2019, when production totaled about 8,000 units. It started selling JAC cars in 2017, before vehicles made by other Chinese automakers such as BYD and SAIC were available in Mexico.
JAC, officially called Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Group Corp., is based in the Chinese province of Anhui.
Giant Motors, Bloomberg reported, “buys completely knocked-down kits from JAC in China and adjusts the design of the cars and trucks at its plant to meet the needs of the local market.”
Giant Motors began manufacturing JAC vehicles in Mexico in 2019. (X)
Massri explained that his company makes vehicles with higher suspension and powerful engines to ensure they are suitable for hilly terrain and potholed roads in Mexico.
Production this year is expected to be 30,000 vehicles, with output anticipated to increase to 40,000 units in 2025. Giant Motors’ plant in Ciudad Sahagún, located about 90 kilometers northeast of central Mexico City, has the capacity to assemble 60,000 vehicles annually.
“We are not satisfied with our size. We want to be bigger,” Massri told Bloomberg.
While JAC vehicles are made in Mexico by a Mexican company, some Chinese automakers have announced plans to build their own plants in Mexico. They include BYD, MG Motor and Chery, whose announcements caused — and continue to cause — concern in the United States and Canada.
Although a number of Chinese automakers have announced plans to establish a manufacturing presence in Mexico, none of them has a “firm investment project” here, President Claudia Sheinbaum said last Thursday.
The Chinese automaker that has received the most attention about its plans in Mexico is BYD, the world’s largest electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer. BYD has said that it is aiming to settle on a location for its proposed plant by the end of the year.
The Shenzhen-based company says that it will make vehicles in Mexico purely for the Mexican market, but there is speculation that its ultimate aim is to export vehicles from Mexico to the United States, which currently allows products made in Mexico to enter the country tariff-free in accordance with the provisions of the USMCA trade pact.
Escape to a quieter Mexico for your Christmas vacation this year, and see some major sites without the crowds. (Trivago)
For the first time in over a decade, I’m going to taking my Christmas vacations in Mexico. It’s the peak of high season for Canadian and American visitors since most of us get time off for the holidays.
States like Quintana Roo and Oaxaca will be crowded with tourists. But, as someone who has been to most of the popular tourist spots, one question comes to mind: What other places in Mexico should I explore instead?
If this doesn’t look like your idea of a good time, here are some other Mexican landmarks that are much less busy in the Christmas period. (Shutterstock)
I asked some family members, friends I have in Mexico and Mexican-Canadian residents I know for their recommendations and created a new “Mexico bucket list” with three Mexican states that make for the perfect Christmas vacation.
If you plan to be in Mexico this holiday season and want to go off the beaten path, you’ve come to the right article!
Channel my inner Indiana Jones in Puebla
The convent atop the Great Pyramid in Cholula is one of Mexico’s most iconic sights. (Unsplash)
Do you know where the biggest known pyramid in the world is? It’d be fair to guess the great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt. But believe it or not, it’s a short day trip away from Puebla. It’s called The Great Pyramid of Cholula and even holds a Guinness World Record. While it’s not as tall, it boasts significantly more volume than its Cairene cousins, making it an impressive feat of engineering.
From afar, Cholula seems like a mountain with a yellow church overlooking all the people and town streets below. But drone footage of the pyramid gives you a better idea of its impressive architectural stature.
Losing yourself within the city of Puebla also sparks adventure. If you wander around its downtown center, there’s a plethora of beautiful colonial architecture and talavera tiles everywhere you look. If you’re a history buff (or love taking pics for your socials), the Puebla Cathedral is a great item to add to the itinerary. If you pray hard enough at the cathedral, “apparently” you’ll be granted three wishes according to folklore.
In the event you’ve always wanted to go on a safari in Africa but couldn’t afford the flights, Puebla has other next best thing — Africam Safari. It’s possible to see elephants, lions, flamingos, monkeys, and so much more in this excursion, which just adds layers to an Indiana Jones-like adventure where you’re in a constant state of discovering new things.
Puebla is also home to a great version of Mexican cuisine. From mole poblano, cemitas, and tacos arabes, you can eat your way through Mercado de Sabores and indulge in the local flavors.
Enjoy tacos and hang out in Campeche
Campeche offers all the charm of Yucatán living with a dash of colonial history. (Visit-Mexico)
Full disclosure: Campeche tacos are some of my favorites. I’ve become something of a foodie over the years, and I love the combination of steak, chorizo, and chicharrones, a speciality of street stalls in the city. I also like adding slices of avocados inside to make it my own, along with lime and a touch of salsa verde.
So, why not go to the source for the most authentic version of Campeche tacos? If you’re a foodie, I’d say Campeche is as good an option as anywhere else in Mexico. Since it’s in the Yucatán Peninsula, you’re also able to enjoy things like cochinita pibil and panuchos, so there are plenty of delicious options.
But exploring Campeche’s downtown center is also well worth your time. This scenic colonial town by the water looks like the best place to move to if I’m ever a digital nomad again. If you consider its historical background, I’d say this is one of the most underrated cities in Mexico.
Once a major trading port for silver, Campeche flourished as an important settlement for the Spanish in the 1500s. But since there was a lot of money going in and out of that part of Mexico, there were also frequent pirate attacks. Eventually, this forced the residents of Campeche to find a solution, leading to the construction of fortified walls and bastions in the 17th century.
Today, these fortified walls, cannons, and other military architecture once used to combat Captain Jack Sparrow and his men are UNESCO World Heritage sites. The historically curious can take a guided tour to learn about it in more detail.
If you’re like me and appreciate a good beach day, Campeche also has you covered. Isla Aguada and Playa Bonita have a good combination of calm waters and just enough sand so you’re not constantly getting it off your clothes as you would be on most beaches in Quintana Roo. Campeche beaches promote seafront vibes that encourage relaxation by the water. Almost like sitting by the lake in a lawn chair.
It might not feel like a Christmas vacation, but Campeche is an important (and iconic) part of Mexico that’s rarely overrun by crowds, making it a great place to visit this December.
Have a local experience in Veracruz.
Caribbean and Mexican living collide in Veracruz. (adonde y cuando)
Last year, I met someone from Veracruz at my office job in Canada. When I was thinking of new Mexican vacation ideas, one of the first things I did was ask my friend, Librado, how to make the most of my time in Veracruz if I were to be there for a few days.
“I would go to La Parroquia for breakfast and then go to the aquarium,” Librado said. “If I’m there for a while, I would also go to San Andres to see the waterfalls and beaches.”
I was happy to learn La Parroquia is an old-school establishment with traditional values when it comes to making coffee, which is awesome since I enjoy café culture. Upon more research, I learned that Veracruz has Cuban and African influences in its cuisine, music, and even their local dialect. The state even has its own Spanish vernacular.
Veracruz hosts an annual Afro-Caribbean Festival, so the multicultural influences here make it a unique and eclectic part of Mexico.
Just outside the city, San Andres Tuxtla also caught my attention. A three-hour bus from Veracruz, it’s a popular getaway for locals, and a great option for tourists who like chasing waterfalls, hiking, or tanning on the sand.
The nature in Salto de Eyipantla and Cascada El Tucan alone looks breathtaking. If hiking is your thing, I’d recommend going down one of these walking trails. The Playa Hermosa trail is the easiest to do, will lead you to picturesque views and is perfect for taking photos along the way.
The more Librado tells me about his hometown, the more I realize how different Veracruz is compared to the rest of Mexico. It makes me want to go see it for myself.
Next stop, who knows?
If you have other ideas in mind for a unique Christmas vacation in Mexico, let us know in the comments. With 32 states in the country, there’s so much to see outside of the popular spots.
Ian Ostroff is an indie author, journalist, and copywriter from Montreal, Canada. You can find his work in various outlets, including Map Happy and The Suburban. When he’s not writing, you can find Ian at the gym, a café, or anywhere within Mexico visiting family and friends.
Communities threatened by a lack of access to clean drinking water are finding ingenious new ways to filter, capture and clean the precious liquid thanks to the support of nonprofit foundations. (Caminos de Agua)
There are many things that we take for granted in the modern world. These include simple things, like accessibility to drinking water or taking a warm shower at home. Believe it or not, these are privileges, especially considering that at least one-third of the world’s population lacks clean water and sanitation.
Such is the case of the municipalities of Dolores Hidalgo and San Diego de la Unión, located in northwestern Guanajuato state. Both cities are tourism powerhouses: one of Mexico’s 132 Magical Towns, Dolores Hidalgo is known as the cradle of Mexican Independence. San Diego de la Unión, on the other hand, is part of Guanajuato’s Wine Route and is famous for its escamoles, Mexico’s answer to caviar. Despite their storied histories, however, both cities are today known for their issues with arsenic pollution.
The city of Dolores Hidalgo, the cradle of Mexican independence, struggles to provide access to clean drinking water for residents. (Juan Carlos Fonseca/Wikimedia)
The communities fighting for clean water
“We started to face this problem in [Dolores Hidalgo and San Diego] back in 2010,” Carmen Castro, a coordinator for the civil association Pozo Ademado Community Service (Secopa), told Mexico News Daily. “So far, we have provided potable water to 20 communities that includes 300 beneficiaries, and we give priority to those families with children.”
The Mexican water nonprofit assists homeowners from vulnerable communities in Guanajuato by providing them access to rainwater harvesting systems and water filters in partnership with international organizations like Caminos de Agua. Castro emphasized there are still communities where residents do not have access to these systems and residents have no option but to collect water in jugs, from central cisterns that supply the whole town.
“We started this project five years after we noticed this issue and still, less than 5 per cent of our population get water from other families,” Castro explained. “All of them get training from us about water usage in general,” she added.
Sebastián Serrano Director of Communications and Sustainability at water treatment firm Hidropluviales. (Alcaldes de Mexico)
The challenges of providing water to a megacity
Water scarcity and pollution are not problems exclusive to rural communities. Urban sectors are not far behind and face more difficulties when it comes to water, including overexploitation and flooding.
Sebastián Serrano, Director of Communications and Sustainability at Hidropluviales, a company that makes water treatment systems for rainwater harvesting, spoke to Mexico News Daily about the challenges involved in implementing water purification systems in populated areas. He explained that the challenges are especially significant in Mexico City.
“The atmosphere [in Mexico City] is more polluted than the areas where vulnerable communities are located. Its infrastructure is overloaded and there is not enough drainage capacity,” he said.
Serrano emphasized that as a result of the litany of problems surrounding water treatment, the Federal District’s 2003 Water Law made it mandatory to install alternate systems for collecting and reusing water in housing units larger than 500 square meters and neighborhoods of Mexico City without a continuous water supply or drinking water network. Noncompliance, however, was widespread. “People used to capture water, put it in a tank and save it for years,” Serrano said.
Sacmex oversees Mexico’s national water infrastructure, including the provision of clean water to homes. (Gob. de CDMX/Cuartoscuro)
After years of the Water Law’s ineffectiveness, the Mexico City water authority (Sacmex) invited businesses in the field, including Hidropluviales, to examine the city’s water regulations, provide feedback and implement updates based on international agreements.
“Sacmex became more efficient after the feedback… since then, we’ve offered filters to commercial and residential buildings to clean rainwater and store it clean to later use it in toilets or make it drinkable,” Serrano said.
The lack of access to drinking water in Mexico
The UN’s 2023 World Water Development Report found that globally, two billion people lack access to safe drinking water. A further 3.6 billion people have no access to safely managed sanitation.
In Mexico, according to nonprofit Water.org, almost 60% of the population lacks access to clean water, and more than 35% lack access to a safe toilet.
Many areas of Mexico rely on weekly water deliveries and are without any access to clean running water. (Andrea Murcia/Cuartoscuro)
Water.org lists water supply and sanitation as challenging areas for Mexico, although this has improved in both urban and rural areas over the course of the last two decades. The nonprofit notes this issue continues in some areas of the country mainly due to “a lack of ongoing investment [that] has slowed progress in getting access to safe water to low-income communities.”
Secopa and other Mexican water nonprofits spoke with Mexico News Daily about how they have faced similar issues where they have not received what they see as proper assistance from Mexican authorities.
“We’ve reached out to local and state government about our water scarcity and pollution for years… One of our team members even went to Mexico City to speak to someone at the Senate and we never got a response from anyone,” Secopa’s Carmen Castro said. “The only assistance we have are other local nonprofits like ours plus international support from bigger organizations.”
Mónica Olvera Molina, Director of Systemic Change Strategy at Cántaro Azul, a nonprofit organization specializing in water, hygiene and sanitation, has called attention to the water distribution model in Mexico. She explains that it does not benefit rural communities, especially in rural areas of Chiapas.
“Chiapas is one of the states that offer clean water, but it has the least access to its own water… its rural population covers almost 50 per cent of the territory and only the big cities are covered,” she explained. However, despite the fact that the state has enough clean drinking water to meet demands, access to water is provided by a committee, meaning that the needs of businesses are often prioritized over those of community residents.
An opening for Mexican water nonprofits
How can nonprofits avoid these challenges and what opportunities are available for those who are willing to create water projects in Mexico without government support?
David Vargas, President and Co-founder of Isla Urbana, a nonprofit that provides access to clean water, especially in rural in Wixárika (Huichol) and Rarámuri (Tarahumara) schools and communities in the north of the country, told Mexico News Daily that most international institutions located in Mexico act as bridges, connecting donors, partners and volunteers seeking to provide water purification systems.
Rain Sensitive
Isla Urbana has been creating these bridges for more than 15 years, installing rain collection systems for half a million people and more than 40,000 schools in Mexico.
Despite this, Vargas points out a number of issues facing nonprofits in Mexico. “There is a lack of partnerships between social organizations to reach agreements with the Mexican government,” he explained. “Another problem is that we need to learn to showcase the problem so it can be seen and understood. In our case, 40% of schools have water failures in Mexico and parents are often asked to bring buckets of water or pay fees to buy pipes,” he finished.
“Multinational corporations with offices in Mexico are always in search of corporate social responsibility initiatives and they give priority to projects like ours. They should take advantage of it because it also gives them a good reputation,” he added.
Isla Urbana has partnered with the Coca-Cola Foundation and is currently working on the creation of 500 rain collection systems in 25 states. They aim to install a total of 5,000 functional systems before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“Our machines are highly specialised and even though our targets are residential homes, businesses, restaurants and hospitals that are in the coastal areas or Mexico City as our machines work in elevated and dry areas…we are in search of a donor willing to accept the challenge,” AirWater Director of Operations Christian Beebe told Mexico News Daily.
“Our goal is to make a 10-year project that is not using collection systems with existing water through rain, but from the air,” he added.
Originally from Texas, Nancy Moya has two degrees from New Mexico State University and the University of Texas at El Paso. With 15 years of experience in print and broadcast journalism, she’s worked with well-known outlets like Univision, The Associated Press, El Diario de El Paso, Mexico’s Norteamérica and Mundo Ejecutivo, Germany’s Deutsche Welle and the Spanish-language El Ibérico of London, among others.
Is Mexico the perfect destination for foreign exchange students? The MND Perspectives podcasts discusses. (Universidad de Guanajuato)
With around 40,000 U.S. college students choosing to study in France and Spain every year, why do so few opt for neighbouring Mexico? While there might be an allure to life in Europe, what is it that is making Mexico so overlooked?
This week, the MND Perspectives podcast takes a look at the reasons that Mexico makes an ideal destination for foreign students and the skills that they could learn during their stay in the country. Using the experiences of Travis Bembenek, Mexico News Daily CEO, the podcast team discusses the opportunities for personal and professional growth awaiting those who choose to come and study in Mexico.
MND Perspectives: Why don't more students study abroad in Mexico?
This podcast was produced using AI tools. All information collected and discussed in this episode was investigated, written and edited by human journalists. Compiled from Mexico News Daily articles by Travis Bembenek. Edited by Kate Bohné. Podcast produced by Chris Havler-Barrett.
December in Guadalajara and the Lake Chapala region is full of festive fun. Come on down and join the party! (Players of Life)
December is here, and with it, various events to celebrate one of the most anticipated seasons of the year.
But not everything is Christmas-themed in December’s calendar. From the largest book fair in the Hispanic world to sporting events and a classical music concert, here are the best things to do in December in Guadalajara and the surrounding areas.
Guadalajara International Book Fair (FIL Guadalajara)
If you enjoy baseball, you’ll want to see the Charros de Jalisco in action during the Arco Mexican Pacific League.
While baseball is generally less popular in Mexico than in the United States, the Charros de Jalisco have generated significant interest in their home state and built a large following.
When? Dec. 1; 6, 7 and 8; 13, 14 and 15; 17, 18 and 19; 25, 26 and 27.
Mexican orchestra director Alondra de la Parra, the first Mexican woman to conduct in New York City, is coming to Guadalajara to showcase her latest production: Gershwin, la Vida en Azul (Gershwin: Life in Blue).
The concert is a homage to U.S. composer George Gershwin, whose compositions spanned popular jazz and classical genres, evoking the musical scene of the 1920s and 1930s in New York and Paris.
When? Dec. 10 and 11.
Where? Sala Plácido Domingo, Conjunto Santander de Artes Escénicas
A new ballet staging from the Ballet Cámara Jalisco will premiere this Christmas season under the direction of Lucy Arce, head of Jalico’s Ballet.
The show, dubbed El Espíritu de Navidad (Christmas Spirit), tells the story of a boy who, guided by the Snow Fairy, rediscovers the joy of Christmas. It features 100 dancers and aims to capture the spirit of the holiday through music and ballet.
The Moscow State Ballet from Russia is returning to Guadalajara to perform The Nutcracker, a beloved ballet composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s The Nutcracker and the Mouse King.
The ballet tells the story of Clara, a young girl who receives a magical nutcracker doll from her godfather, Herr Drosselmeyer, at a Christmas party.
The fifth edition of Navidalia, a theme park celebrating Christmas, is back in Guadalajara. Featuring a monumental Christmas tree, a nativity set, an ice-skating ring, live music, light shows, and much more, Navidalia offers a Christmas experience for the whole family.
The park is divided into four pavilions that represent a region of the world and its Christmas traditions. The pavilions include the European World, Nordic World, Mexican Posada, and Middle Eastern World.
The Run Santa Run race is back in Guadalajara, featuring 1, 5, and 10 kilometer options.
The event promises surprises along the route, including Christmas decorations, artificial snow, and a meet-and-greet area with Santa Claus and the Grinch.
Participants are expected to run wearing a Christmas-themed disguise. Santa Claus Kits for adults will be sold at 380 pesos, while Elf Kits for kids younger than 12 years of age, will be sold at 330 pesos.
The Jalisco Philharmonic Orchestra will perform the last concert of its third season at Degollado Theater in Guadalajara’s Historic Center, featuring music by Obermüller, Mendelssohn and Schumann
The Orchestra is currently directed by Spanish Director José Luis Castillo.
Picture a musical concert next to a lake, featuring relaxing rhythms by national and international artists. That’s Sonidos del Lago (Sounds from the Lake), a festival that invites attendees to connect with themselves and nature.
The event can only host 300 guests, so make sure to buy your tickets soon before they’re sold out. Snacks, drinks, and cacao are also available at the venue.
When? Dec. 5.
Where? Nimue Marina Residence & Hotel Boutique, Chapala.
Barbeque lovers are invited to the Barbeque Festival in Guadalajara, which will feature over 150 exhibitors specializing in grilling. The drink menu will offer a selection of beer, wine, and food pairings.
Besides food and drinks, the event will see live music including mariachi and a kids’ club.
When? Nov. 30 and Dec. 1
Where? Centro de la Amistad Internacional
Gabriela Solis is a Mexican lawyer turned full-time writer. She was born and raised in Guadalajara and covers business, culture, lifestyle and travel for Mexico News Daily. You can follow her lifestyle blog Dunas y Palmeras.
Art, culture, Christmas colors and a heavy dose of ceremony are all on offer for explorers in the state of Oaxaca. (Gobierno del Estado de Oaxaca)
December in Oaxaca is a time period filled with festivals, parties and parades, punctuated with the bangs of homemade fireworks that go off all hours of day and night. This month leading up to Christmas is sometimes described as the season of the Virgens, with many celebrations around these particular saints.
If you’re in Mexico’s artistic and gastronomic capital this Christmas, here are some of the incredible activities you can enjoy.
December Pilgrimages
(Estación Foto/Cuartoscuro)
In Oaxaca, the Christmas season begins with the annual pilgrimage to Santa Catarina Juquila and the shrine of Our Lady of Juquila, known for healing miracles. Devout pilgrims arrive from a multi-day journey by foot from nearby villages while others travel long distances by bus from other states to celebrate her day of worship.
Date: Dec. 8 Location: Santa Catarina Juquila
Our Lady of Guadalupe is Mexico’s most celebrated saint, with activities in her honor taking place between Dec. 1 and 9. Oaxaca has a particular tradition. Families visit the Templo de la Virgen de Guadalupe, north edge of El Llano Park. Boys dress up as Juan Diego, who first saw the Virgin, while girls wear traditional blouses and skirts with their hair braided with ribbons.
When: Dec. 12 Where: Templo de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe
Our Lady of Solitude (Nuestra Señora de la Soledad) is the patron saint of Oaxaca and is honored with one of the state’s biggest December celebrations. Festivities start in front of the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad and develop into one of the longest parades in Oaxaca. Arrive early to explore the food stalls nearby before the celebrations begin.
When: Dec. 18 Where: Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Soledad
Inauguration: “En memoria a”
Step into the evocative world of Alberto Cruz with “En memoria a…”, an exhibition that captures the essence of childhood innocence through the powerful simplicity of graphic imagery. A celebrated Oaxacan printmaker, Cruz’s work has traveled far and wide, gracing galleries across Mexico and internationally in the United States, United Kingdom, and Japan. Honored with the prestigious Takeda Award in 2016, his art resonates with universal themes and timeless charm. Don’t miss the inaugural event at El Alacrán, a vibrant art space within the collective founded by the legendary Francisco Toledo in Oaxaca. Join us for an unforgettable artistic experience!
Where: El Alacran, Murguia 302
When: 6 December 6pm
Amanda Miguel at Auditorio Guelaguetza
(Amanda Miguel/Facebook)
Rising dramatically on the hillside above Oaxaca’s Historic Center, the Auditorio Guelaguetza is more than just a venue — it’s a cultural icon. Originally built to showcase the vibrant traditions of Oaxaca’s annual Guelaguetza celebrations, the open-air amphitheater recently celebrated its 50th anniversary on November 27. This month, the stage comes alive with an exciting lineup of concerts, including a standout performance by the legendary singer-songwriter Amanda Miguel. Don’t miss the chance to experience world-class music in one of Oaxaca’s most stunning settings!
Date: Dec. 14 at 9 p.m. Location: Auditorio Guelaguetza Cost: Tickets start at 1000 pesos. Available for purchase online.
Get ready for a December full of beats, vibes, and festive cheer at Cantinita, the go-to spot in downtown Oaxaca for unforgettable nights! The month kicks off with New York’s Mr. Big Happy, spinning vinyl magic on December 7. Then, on December 18, brace yourself for a takeover by Mexico City’s Brujas, recently crowned No. 45 in North America’s @50bestbars.
Finally, mark your calendar for December 20, when the Cantinita crew and guest musicians come together for a lively Christmas Posada — the perfect way to celebrate the season with music and merriment. Don’t miss it!
Posadas, which translates to “inns,” are processions and celebrations held during the evenings leading up to Christmas Eve. They are deeply rooted Christmas tradition celebrated in Oaxaca and other parts of Mexico. A posada is a re-enactment of Joseph and Mary’s journey: pilgrims arrive, request shelter and are refused — all in song. After several exchanges, the doors are opened. Inside, the host has prepared gifts of sweets and fruits and as a finale they break a piñata.
In Oaxaca, a posada is also the term for when families and friends also gather for festive Christmas parties — so get down and enjoy some traditional winter snacks and delicious ponche if you’re in town.
Date: Dec. 16-24 Location: Various; a good option is 6:30 p.m. at the church of San Matías Jalatlaco
Radish night
(Gobierno del Estado de Oaxaca)
Noche de Los Rábanos, or Radish Night, is one of Oaxaca’s most popular December events. It dates back to the 1800s when vendors carved radishes to draw attention to their stands at the Christmas market. In 1897 it was declared an official competition. Now huge radishes are grown especially to carve into fantastic sculptural scenes such as the Last Supper. The event has become very popular, attracting over 100 contestants and thousands of visitors.
Date: December 23 Location: Zócalo, Oaxaca de Juárez
Las calendas del Niño Dios
(Graciela López/Cuartoscuro)
For Christmas Eve, known as La Noche Buena, churches in central Oaxaca organize parades known as calendas. Each church is represented by different colored lanterns.
At the heart of the calenda is the baby Jesus, led by his madrinas (godmothers) to the main square in front of the Cathedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción. They circle the zocalo four times and then return to their host churches. Then Jesus is placed in a manger in time for the beginning of midnight mass.
The calenda typically starts around 8 p.m. at each church, reaching the cathedral by around 10 p.m.
Date: Dec. 24 at 10 p.m. Location: Zócalo, Oaxaca de Juárez
Festive light show and markets
(Max Núñez/Cuartoscuro)
During the lead up to Christmas, Oaxaca city puts on a festive light show in front of Santo Domingo Church. This is a fun way to start an evening downtown, watching the lights, with a a hot elote and a warming drink.
During the day there are seasonal markets. One of the largest is located on Alcala, just north of Santo Domingo Church. These tent-covered stalls offer artisan crafts and specialty Christmas foods.
Date: Month of December Location: Plaza de Santo Domingo
Winter wonderland
🎄Hermosa Villa Mágica de Mitla ¿Que hacer esta Navidad en Oaxaca?🎄
About an hour from Oaxaca city, the Pueblo Mágico of Mitla hosts festive celebrations beginning around the middle of December, lasting until the first week of January. The beautifully decorated town square has a small ice skating rink and a stage with nightly performances by local bands. It is a perfect festive trip for the whole family.
If you don’t want to go all the way to Mitla, Parque El Llano in Oaxaca city also has an ice rink, food vendors and nightly performances.
Date: Month of December Location: Mitla and Parque el Llano in Oaxaca de Juárez
Anna Bruce is an award-winning British photojournalist based in Oaxaca, Mexico. Just some of the media outlets she has worked with include Vice, The Financial Times, Time Out, Huffington Post, The Times of London, the BBC and Sony TV. Find out more about her work at her website or visit her on social media on Instagram or on Facebook.
The Riviera Maya is alive with fun this December. Here are some of the best activities to enjoy during the last month of 2024. (cancuniairport)
Champagne and hors d’oeuvres, flying acrobats, holistic wellness festivals, rock bands, and International Salsa masters will all keep you entertained this December in the Riviera Maya and across the Yucatán peninsula.
Whether you enjoy traditional plays, tomfoolery, or the fine arts, it’s all here this month. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to one of the incredible resorts throughout the region, make the end of your 2024 a great one!
Stretch Bracelet Making
Jewelry Workshops
Looking for that special Christmas gift? Why not make it in this fun, crafty and creative custom-made jewelery workshop. Design, your one-of-a-kind bracelet and make it under the expert tutelage of a jewelry designer to help make your masterpiece. Made with natural and semi-precious materials. Perfect for every skill level and age, this is a great family, or friends, activity to prepare for the December activities.
Date: December 3, 4.
Location: Boheme, Playa del Carmen.
Cost: 467.50 pesos (includes bracelet)
Holiday Spectacular Fundraiser
(Hacienda Wakax)
Start the silly season our right with champagne and hors d’oeuvres. Then enjoy a holiday concert followed by wood-fired pizza, beer, and wine, pinata-hitting fun, a silent auction, and hopefully win some of the raffle prizes. This charity event sends 100% of your ticket price to Tacos & Toys charity.
Immerse yourself in wellness, music, and love at this wellness festival with activities for all ages. Conscious yoga for adults and yoga kids for young ones. Plus, a temazcal (sweat lodge), traditional massage, ice baths, and ecstatic dance are just a few things to do and see. Add in holistic markets and great food and it’s a fun day out for every age. Date: December 7, 8 a.m.-10 p.m.
Latino dance lovers break out your dancing shoes at the largest festival in Merida. Explore and learn different syles of salsa: Casino (Cuban Salsa), Bachata (from the Dominican Republic), and the swaying sweetness of Paupapá. You can join International and national masters in workshops, and dance contests, or just enjoy watching the professionals and competitions in a toe-tapping good time.
Tex - Tex - Toque Magico, Me Dijiste y Asesinos del Rock en el Vive Latino 2013
After 37 years of playing some of the best events in Mexico and abroad, Tex-Tex is coming to Playa del Carmen for the first time ever. Grab your gal and enjoy a night out listening to some of Mexico’s best rock. DJs and Bohemios del Rock are in the lineup as starters, as well as Los Nitos to help you get in the groove. Doors open at 9 p.m.
Date: Saturday, December 14
Location: Sushi 3:1, Playa del Carmen
Cost: Presale 250 pesos, 300 pesos on the door.
Pastorelas
(Pinterest)
These fun traditional plays are popular in Isla Mujeres and Merida, as well as Playa del Carmen so if you’re in these areas be sure to stop by and enjoy a real Mexican Christmas treat. It’s the tale (and usually a very funny one) of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter the night the baby Jesus was born. With candlelight, processions, and typically sweet treats and some punch to be found as well.
Dates: December 16-24
Location: Churches and town squares in Isla Mujeres, Merida, Playa del Carmen
An Experience for Your Senses... JOYÀ | OFFICIAL SHOW TRAILER | Cirque du Soleil
If you’re like me and this show has been on your list but the year has gotten away from you, December is the last chance to see JOYÁ. Dinner and show at its finest with champagne and flying acrobatics, a 3-course meal, and a wonderful story of a grandfather and granddaughter trying to unfold the mysteries of life. Set in the jungles of the Riviera Maya, expect beauty at every turn.
Date: until the end of December 2024.
Location: Cirque Du Soliel Theatre, Vidanta Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen.
SET Underground Tulum Jungle Experience - Altona Showcase
Music lovers rejoice, this year’s SET Underground New Year’s Eve Jungle Cenote party in Tulum will have you dancing till dawn. See in the new year with an epic lineup including Bora Uzer, Christian Löffler, and Parra for Cuva. Doors open at 8 p.m. and it goes until 8 a.m. on New Year’s Day.
Mexico Correspondent for International Living, Bel is an experienced writer, author, photographer and videographer with 500+ articles published both in print and across digital platforms. Living in the Mexican Caribbean for over 7 years now she’s in love with Mexico and has no plans to go anywhere anytime soon.
