Tropical wave No. 10 is expected to enter the Yucatan Peninsula by Monday evening, bringing abundant rainfall throughout the week. (Conagua)
Rain is in the forecast for all of Mexico’s 32 states on Monday, as tropical wave No. 10 approaches the Yucatán Peninsula.
Tropical wave No. 10 is expected to enter the Yucatan Peninsula by Monday evening, interacting with a low-pressure system in the north and humidity from the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.
This weather pattern will bring thunderstorms and intermittent rains to Chiapas, Oaxaca, Quintana Roo, Yucatán, Campeche, Tabasco and Veracruz.
Intense isolated storms are also expected in Sonora, Sinaloa, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Nayarit, Jalisco, Michoacán, Guerrero and México state, while heavy rains — with hail and lightning likely — are forecast to hit Zacatecas, Aguascalientes, Colima, Guanajuato, Querétaro, Hidalgo, Morelos and Mexico City.
Showers are forecast for Baja California, Puebla, Tlaxcala, San Luis Potosí, Nuevo León and Tamaulipas, with isolated rains expected in Baja California Sur.
The National Meteorological Service (SMN) has warned residents that heavy rains may reduce visibility, cause flooding and landslides and increase river and stream levels.
Rain is forecast throughout the rest of the week as the tropical wave combines with a cold front approaching northern Mexico.
High temperatures to continue in some parts of the country
Despite the rain, some areas will continue to experience high temperatures. The maximum temperatures forecast for today are as follows:
40 to 45 degrees Celsius: Baja California, Sonora and Sinaloa.
35 to 40 degrees Celsius: Baja California Sur, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo León, Nayarit, Jalisco, Michoacán, Guerrero, Oaxaca, Tamaulipas, Tabasco, Campeche and Yucatán.
30 to 35 degrees Celsius: Durango, Zacatecas, San Luis Potosí, Colima, southwest Puebla, Morelos, Veracruz, Chiapas and Quintana Roo.
President López Obrador and President-elect Sheinbaum visited the polluted Tula River over the weekend. (lopezobrador.org.mx)
President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum has pledged to implement an extensive water plan for central Mexico, one of various regions of the country affected by drought.
Speaking on Saturday at an event with President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and other officials in the municipality of Tlaxcoapan, Hidalgo, Sheinbaum said her government would work “hand in hand” on water issues with incoming Mexico City mayor Clara Brugada, México state Governor Delfina Gómez and Hidalgo Governor Julio Menchaca.
“We’re going to formulate a great water plan for the entire central area of the country and we’re going to revive the Tula River,” she said.
“We’re going to do a big clean-up of the Tula River,” Sheinbaum said, adding that the river in Hidalgo will consequently have the “viability” to be used as a source for drinking water, “which is also a right for the entire central region of the country.”
Ensuring the ongoing supply of water will be a major challenge for the government led by Sheinbaum, who will be sworn in as Mexico’s first female president on Oct. 1.
A truck delivers water to Yuguelito, a community in Mexico City’s Iztapalapa borough, in February. (Graciela López Herrera/Cuartoscuro)
The metropolitan area of Mexico City is one part of the country where supply is a major concern. Many areas have limited or no access to running water and depend on water deliveries. What’s more, the capital’s primary water source could run out in 40 years, according to experts from the National Autonomous University’s Water Network.
Brugada, who easily won the June 2 mayoral election, has pledged to work with Sheinbaum and Governor Gómez to solve Mexico City’s water scarcity problem. She has promised to create a water-focused ministry in Mexico City, expand the capital’s rainwater harvesting program and establish a new program for the “rehabilitation” of 11 water sources, among other measures.
“Water is a vital resource for Mexico — it’s needed not just for household and workplace consumption, but also for our food security, economic development, energy generation and public health care,” she wrote in the “100 pasos para la transformación” (100 Steps for Transformation) document she released earlier this year.
In that document, Sheinbaum acknowledged that Mexico is going through a “prolonged drought.” However, she asserted that a future in which there is enough water for everyone — “without the need to overexploit” water sources — is possible.
“That future requires us to … rethink the rules that govern the [water] sector and to implement different solutions based on technology,” she wrote.
The president-elect’s plan includes expanding Mexico City’s rainwater harvesting program with the installation of more systems like this one. (Cuartoscuro)
“… We must review the laws to protect the human right to water, allocate water use rights fairly and ensure that water continues to be an asset of Mexico,” Sheinbaum continued.
She said there are “two fundamental pillars” in the water sector — “the efficient use of water in the countryside through the implementation of technology, and the use of treated water in order to divert first-use [potable] water to cities.”
Sheinbaum added that agriculture accounts for 76% of water usage in Mexico, and highlighted that the “efficiency” of the sector’s usage of the resource is “low.”
“… By making water usage more efficient in the countryside, we can release a substantial quantity of water for human consumption, particularly in cities adjoining irrigation districts,” wrote the president-elect, an environmental scientist.
In her “100 steps for transformation” document, Sheinbaum also expressed support for desalination projects provided they don’t have an adverse effect on marine ecosystems. She also acknowledged that more infrastructure needs to be built in order to “resolve water supply problems.”
AMLO reiterated his concern for the ex-president during his Monday press conference, saying that violence "contaminates the political environment." (Mario Jasso/Cuartoscuro)
President Andrés Manuel López Obrador condemned the assassination attempt on former United States president Donald Trump, declaring that “any act of violence is reprehensible.”
Shortly after Trump was shot by a 20-year-old gunman while speaking at a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, López Obrador wrote on social media that “we condemn what happened to the ex-president… Violence is irrational and inhumane.”
Sea como sea reprobamos lo sucedido al expresidente Donald Trump. La violencia es irracional e inhumana.
President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum said on social media that she agreed with López Obrador and asserted that “violence doesn’t get you anywhere.”
“… It’s good to know that the former president Donald Trump is fine,” she said in a subsequent post.
“We reiterate our condemnation of this attack and the importance of rejecting any form of political violence. Peace and democracy must always be the choice,” Sheinbaum wrote.
Violence “cannot be justified,” he said, adding that it is “irrational” and “doesn’t help” in any way.
“On the contrary, it contaminates the political environment and produces fear [and] suspicion,” AMLO said.
“In addition, it’s very inhumane because in politics we can be adversaries but not enemies,” he said.
“… Fortunately, ex-president Trump wasn’t assassinated,” López Obrador said before acknowledging that one rally attendee and the shooter were killed.
AMLO and Trump had a cordial relationship during the former U.S. president’s time in office. (Cuartoscuro)
“It’s all very regrettable. We’ve already suffered from these moments of great uncertainty and sadness … [with] the assassination of [Luis Donaldo] Colosio,” he said, referring to the 1994 killing in Tijuana of the presidential candidate for the then-ruling Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI).
Francisco I. Madero was assassinated in 1913, while Venustiano Carranza was killed in 1920. Álvaro Óbregon was assassinated in 1928 just 16 days after he was elected to serve a second term as president.
Donald Trump, who will be formally nominated this week as the Republican Party’s candidate for the Nov. 5 presidential election in the United States, is the first U.S. president or ex-president to be shot since Ronald Reagan survived an assassination attempt in 1981.
Mexico received over US $2.46 billion in revenue from foreign tourists in May. (Martin Zetina/Cuartoscuro)
Foreign tourism revenue was up 7.7% in May compared to 2023.
According to the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), Mexico received over US $2.46 billion in revenue from foreign tourists in May, compared to the $2.23 billion it earned in May 2023.
INEGI reported that May saw 6.72 million travelers enter the country, a 14.3% rise over 2023 figures. (Cuartoscuro)
INEGI’s report also revealed that foreign tourists entering Mexico via air spent on average US $1,115.31 — 1.5% more than last year.
In a statement, Tourism Minister Miguel Torruco Marqués said that the increase in foreign currency revenue from international visitors and the average spend by tourists are important measures of a country’s potential in the tourism industry.
As for the number of visitors, the INEGI reported that May saw 6.72 million travelers enter the country, a 14.3% rise over 2023 figures. Of these visitors, 3.4 million were foreign tourists.
In his statement, Torruco added that from January to May, the inflow of foreign currency reached US $14.9 billion, an increase of 8.1% compared to the same period of last year and an increase of 35.1% over the same period of 2019.
From January to May, Mexico saw the arrival of 18.1 million foreign travelers — an increase of 6.1% compared to last year, Torruco said. Of these tourists, 10.16 million travelers arrived by air — up 5.5% over the same period of 2023.
According to official data, nearly 80% of total arrivals in 2024 have hailed from three countries: the United States, Canada and Colombia. The number of tourists from the U.S. was 6,248,000, while travelers from Canada numbered 1,537,000 tourists and 257,273 from Colombia.
Pioneer Bacalar offers you the chance to discover a part of Mexico that prioritizes the natural wonder of one of the most incredible places in the world.
Picture this: A dreamy, untouched jungle shoreline is kissed by the gentle lapping of the most brilliantly blue turquoise water you’ve ever seen. Thick banks of mangroves tunnel over centuries old pirate canals that lead out to the open sea. Peppered around the waterfront are long, palapa-topped wooden docks, where hammocks sway languidly in the warm, tropical breeze. Now and then, a kayak silently slices through the glassy surface of the water as its paddler looks towards the heavens for one of the many hundreds of species of migratory birds. It’s silent, save for the wind rustling through the fluffy palm trees, stirring up fans of ripples in the water below.
It was exactly this image that first attracted Michel Grondin, lead developer of sustainable living concept Pioneer Bacalar to the sleepy lakeside town almost a decade ago.
“People kept talking about Bacalar,” he said. “I hopped in a car from Tulum and drove down. A couple of hours later, I was in this beautiful lagoon. I rented a boat and went exploring the different nooks and crannies, and I just loved it. It was paradise.”
Looking for development beyond a Tulum that he knew well, Grondin saw Bacalar as a blank canvas and an opportunity to develop in a way that was both luxurious and additive to the natural beauty of a precious ecosystem. He wanted to pioneer a community for people to come to live and experience Bacalar the way it was meant to be lived and experienced — close to nature, protecting the environment, but with an undeniable dose of jungle-inspired luxury. And so, Pioneer Bacalar was born.
Where is Bacalar?
Bacalar refers to two places. First, there is the town, a small community with centuries of history, that is fast becoming one of the buzziest destinations for low-key, creative, eco-minded travelers. Then, there is the lake itself, also known as the Lake of Seven Colors, thanks to the various shades of blue that dance across the surface throughout the day. This breathtaking 26-mile-long freshwater lake sits at the very southern end of the state of Quintana Roo, just before you cross the border into Belize.
Up until very recently, the town and the lake were only accessible from either Cancún airport, a four-hour drive away, or from Quintana Roo’s capital, Chetumal, which has very limited direct flights outside of Mexico. However, with the introduction of the Tulum International Airport last December, Bacalar has become much more accessible to international travelers. The new Tulum International Airport has a capacity of four million passengers a year. It is located 12 miles south of Tulum and will have its own Tren Maya stop to link Bacalar with Tulum directly.
A (carefully) evolving destination
As far as tropical castaway fantasies go, for years Tulum had been the destination du jour. Images of white-sand beaches and crystalline water splashed across international travel magazines, while legends of epic art installations and moonlit dance parties, holistic healing, and organic cuisine made their way around the world.
This is why Bacalar is having its moment now more than ever. Bacalar has always been an eco-conscious destination, drawing travelers to its pristine, Caribbean-clear waters, lush mangrove jungles, wildlife, and an ethos that prioritizes the environment over anything remotely club-scene or overtly “trendy.”
It’s not that Bacalar is a new destination. But the spotlight is now on what a magnificent beauty it is, and travelers are paying attention. With the opening of the Tulum International Airport and the ongoing construction of the Maya Train, it is now easier than ever to move around southern Quintana Roo, bringing Bacalar closer than ever before.
To add to this, the town of Bacalar has been given Pueblo Mágico status by the Mexican government, an award which highlights the unique charm of some of the country’s most special locations. The designation also comes with increased government funding to help develop infrastructure, making Bacalar more accessible to visitors than ever before.
The town and destination are growing. What started as a handful of boutique palapa-topped lakefront hotels and low-impact homes is carefully evolving to become a hideaway for barefoot luxe travelers from around the world. These travelers are drawn to the low-key beach clubs, cozy coffee shops, laid-back burrito trucks and the endless activities that take place both on the lake and within the jungle.
Pioneer Bacalar: A development at the forefront of Mexican history
For visitors who love the history of the Yucatan Peninsula, Bacalar puts them at the doorstep of one of the largest unexplored archaeological sites in Mexico — Ichkabal. Set to open in August 2024, the 2,400-year-old city is said to be the origins of the Kaanul Dynasty, one of the most powerful ruler groups of the Maya civilization. Visitors will be able to explore the set of five buildings, including a 40-meter-high pyramid, which is twice the size of the world-famous Kukulkán temple in Chichen Itza.
Bacalar is truly a treasure trove of opportunity for travelers and investors looking for a slice of paradise to call their own. But unlike other destinations that developed too far and too fast, Bacalar has tighter environmental restrictions to prevent development from spiraling out of control, which is exactly what Grondin was looking for.
Developed with purpose
Pioneer Bacalar is a collection of four homes, each on 1,200 square meters of land. One has already sold and three are still available for pre-sale. The project is designed to bring the lake to life for people who are passionate about natural beauty and an intentional lifestyle.
The aesthetic is understated glamor, with locally sourced materials including chukum and native woods. Pops of color are naturally incorporated through the surrounding jungle palette — the blues of the lagoon, the greens of the jungle, and the shimmers of turquoise from each residence’s private pool. Each residence has a private dock with two of the homes at Pioneer having 25+ meters of lagoon frontage where residents can launch their boats, jet skis, and kayaks. Because no developments are permitted on the eastern side of the lake, homeowners will have nothing blocking their views of the protected nature beyond.
Not only does Pioneer adhere to strict development regulations in the region, but it also takes things a step further by incorporating seamless, sustainable concepts into the boho-chic design, without sacrificing a shred of luxury. The entirely off-grid environment was designed with sustainability at the forefront, from the solar energy system to the on-site greywater system which collects, filters, and reuses water from sinks, showers, and laundry to irrigate landscapes, reducing freshwater use and lessening wastewater output. Still, homes will be outfitted with Starlink, air-conditioning paired with strategically installed fans, and top-of-the-line appliances. Spaces will be chic and comfortable, but deeply rooted in sustainability and completely enveloped by nature.
“The goal is to attract buyers who are environmentally conscious, but even if that concept is new to them, the homes do the work for them,” said Grondin. “We believe that we can create something truly sustainable and environmentally positive for decades to come. It’s an environmentally conscious place designed using a holistic approach, without sacrificing any comforts. With this day and age and with the technology currently available, this can be done [here in Bacalar], and at a great price point for the luxury it provides.”
The price of each home ranges from 1.2M to 2.4M USD.
Finding a slice of paradise
At the end of the day, for Grondin and Bacalar loyalists, it’s about the lagoon. It’s about disappearing into nature where it is quiet and peaceful. It’s about living in luxury while carefully caring for the natural world around them.
“Most of the time, when I am on a boat on the lake, I’m alone. The only noises are the birds, the wind, and the water. We want a community where the draw is the lagoon, the goal is to preserve nature, and appreciate the culture, combined with all those things that make a lifestyle luxurious.”
Over 30,000 participated in Mexico City's half marathon race on Sunday. (@21KCDMX/X)
A runner taking part in the 17th Mexico City half marathon died at the finish line on Sunday, enshrouding in tragedy what was by all other accounts a successful event.
According to media reports, the deceased is Juan Stenner, 32, an athlete who competed in the 400-meter hurdles at the 2011 Pan American Games held in Guadalajara. Event organizers said Stenner was not registered for the event and was not wearing a competitor number.
¡Siempre te recordaremos como un gran atleta y ser humano! 🙏🏻
Lamentamos el fallecimiento de nuestro exalumno, Juan Stenner Escalante, integrante de la generación 2008-2011, quién falleció el día de hoy mientras corría el Medio Maratón de la CdMx. pic.twitter.com/emcPsdIgqu
Stenner, who retired from track and field competitions in 2018, reportedly collapsed upon reaching the finish line near the Angel of Independence Monument on Reforma Avenue. Red Cross paramedics at the scene attended to him quickly and rushed him to the nearby Rubén Leñero Hospital, but doctors were unable to revive him.
In a statement posted to social media, the Mexico City Sports Institute and the city government offered “sincere condolences to [Stenner’s] family and friends,” while also ensuring they would support the family in any way they could.
The tragedy overshadowed the popular half marathon event which traversed Reforma Avenue and Chapultepec Park before concluding at the Angel of Independence Monument.
Thousands lined the 21-kilometer route to clap and shout encouragement to the more than 30,000 participants running in a variety of categories.
Nigerian Frederick Yeko Domongole finished the half marathon in just over 1:04. (@21KCDMX/X)
Nigerians Frederick Yeko Domongole and Joyce Chepkemoi Tele won the men’s and women’s race, respectively. Domongole finished the race in 1:04:37, while Tele completed it in 1:10:34, breaking by nearly three minutes the record set by Mexican Citlali Cristian Moscote in 2021.
In the men’s category, Abel Kipkirui Mutai from Kenya finished second and Mexican Jorge Luis Pérez Cruz came in third. In the women’s race, Kenyan Kimutai Jepkosgei Winnie earned the silver medal while Mexican Mayra Sánchez Vidal — the 2022 winner — came in third.
The winners earned 50,000 pesos each, while the second-place finishers came away with 35,000 pesos and the third-place competitors earned 20,000 pesos.
Prizes were also awarded to wheel-chair competitors and visually impaired runners.
Beat the crowds this year, and head to some of Mexico's most authentic (and dazzling) locations, from fireflies, to castles to long forest walks. (The Fireflies Sanctuary in Tlaxcala/Facebook)
When planning a family vacation in Mexico, it’s easy to start your planning by looking at the usual destinations — popular resorts and attractions like Cancún, Los Cabos, Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende. Many of these could righfully be considered candidates for the title of “best family holiday in Mexico.”
But while there are reasons for these destinations to always be at the top of any travel list, there are lesser known places that can be as rewarding and fun when traveling with kids.
Taking your children on holiday is an amazing experience, but picking the right destination is essential! (Vitolda Klein/Unsplash)
We did our first international trip with my daughter when she was six months old and we haven’t stopped traveling since (she’s now five). So, I’ve got you — I know exactly what to look for when traveling with kids. Luckily, few places offer such a brilliant array of options for families quite like Mexico.
Here is a list of recommendations for incredible and original destinations in Mexico to plan your next family vacation.
Tapalpa, Jalisco
Tapalpa is an authentic piece of traditional small-town Mexico, nestled in the heart of the Jalisco highlands. (Guadalajara)
If you like nature and want to provide your kids with an authentic small-town experience in Mexico, look no further than the Magic Town of Tapalpa, Jalisco.
Nestled in the highlands south of Guadalajara, Tapalpa means “Land of Color” in Nahuatl, a name probably provided by its evergreen landscape. With a pleasant average temperature of 15 degrees Celsius during the summer, people from Guadalajara flock there on weekends to do everything from fishing to hiking, cycling and horseback riding.
Its cobbled stones, tiled roofs, traditional food and countryside feel attract national and international travelers alike, as this stunningly beautiful town starts to get the recognition it deserves.
One of the main attractions in Tapalpa are the “piedrotas” or Big Stones in the Valley of Enigmas, a beautiful prairie with creeks and intensely green grass, while gigantic stones sit scattered around as if they had fallen from the sky.
A stay in the Hotel Remanso can give you the chance to base yourself in rural Jalisco – making a perfect base for day trips to other popular towns, including Tequila. (Hotel Remanso)
Where to stay?From stunning Airbnb cabins deep in the forest to 5 star hotels, there are plenty of options. My personal recommendations include Tapalpa Country Club Hotel and Hotel Remanso. Both offer outdoor activities suitable for all members of the family.
Tapalpa is a great addition to the itinerary of any family visiting Guadalajara. It can also be paired with the international tourist destination of Tequila.
Firefly sanctuary, Tlaxcala
A magical time awaits anyone lucky enough to venture to Tlaxcala’s Firefly Sanctuary. (Zona Turistica)
The firefly sanctuary or Santuario de las Luciérnagas, is one of Mexico’s most stunning natural treasures and probably one of its best-kept-secrets.
Located in the state of Tlaxcala, about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Mexico City, the sanctuary comes to life between June and the first days of August, when thousands of fireflies light up the thick forest of Nanacamilpa in search of a mate.
Firefly sightings begin at 8:30 pm and last approximately one hour, with the peak lasting around 20-25 minutes. However, the magic of the experience starts the moment you step into the cold coniferous forest of this stunning natural reserve, led by your experienced guide.
During the experience, the use of iPhones, camera flashes, or lamps are strictly forbidden as artificial light interferes with the darkness required to see the fireflies.
If you’re in the area, the ex-hacienda de Chautla also offers a chance to see European opulence in the heart of Mexico. (Ex-hacienda de Chautla)
This activity is best suited for kids older than four, as the experience requires a few hours of walking and silence.
Where to stay?From hotels to camping spots, you have choices. Piedra Canteada has a wide camping area next to the forest. If you’d like a more comfortable experience, you can check out Villas del Bosque de Santa Clara or Eco-hotel Laguna Azul. Otherwise, you can stay in Tlaxcala, where many hotels arrange night excursions to the reserve.
Mérida, Yucatán
Easy to get to and with all the amenities of city life, Mérida offers a chance to really get to know life in tropical Mexico. (Viator)
The Yucatán Peninsula in the Riviera Maya is mostly known for the hot spots of Cancún, Tulum and Playa del Carmen. These family resorts are incredible, with a wide variety of activities for all the family and are rightly very popular with travellers.
But away from the beach lies the city of Mérida. From exquisite cuisine to cultural and natural activities, Mérida is the perfect destination for families looking for a small city experience and the chance to experience natural adventures.
Activities families can enjoy in Mérida include the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya, a stroll around Mérida’s historic main square and a visit to the architecturally dazzling Casa Montejo.
But while you’re in the area, why not explore family-friendly cenotes? These cenotes have infrastructure that can make it easier for the younger ones in the family to enjoy too. The list includes Cenote in the Hacienda Selva Maya, Cenote Santa Rosa, Cenote San Ignacio, Cenote Hubikú or Cenote Santa Cruz.
Cenote San Ignacio offers accessibility options that mean the whole family can enjoy the chance to swim. (Cenote San Ignacio)
Where to stay?Mérida has no shortage of hotels, including local boutique hotels and international hotels and historic haciendas outside of the city. Consider a hotel on Mérida’s most beautiful street, Paseo de Montejo.
Mérida is a beautiful destination that doesn’t need to be paired with other cities, offering plenty for a multi-day vacation.
So whatever your family is like, there is sure to be a vacation in Mexico that is perfect for all of you. If there’s anywhere else you want to recommend, why not tell us about it in the comments?
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.
What could have been a moment of disaster after the arrival of Hurricane Beryl became a reminder of the wonderful nature around us, says Bel Woodhouse. (All photos by Bel Woodhouse)
Living in the Mexican Caribbean for seven years, I’ve experienced a few hurricanes. The Hurricane Beryl aftermath though, was something different. First, she increased in strength before making landfall, strengthening back up to a Category 3. Second, I discovered a whole new world in her wake — an incredible world of fallen botanical beauties.
There is so much beauty and sadness in the aftermath of a hurricane. The chaos and the calm are intertwined, like a yin-yang moment in time and space. The opposing forces somehow balance, creating a lifelong emotional impact that I’ll still look back on when I’m 80.
Hurricane Beryl left a trail of destruction in its wake – but it’s not all doom and gloom. (Semar/Cuartoscuro)
Sloshing through puddles as soon as the rains died down, a whole world of botanical gems lay at my feet. Branches and stripped leaves, tattered and torn, covered the streets in a multitude of colors. Strange seedpods and flower buds, once lost in the treetops, were now down at eye level.
Let’s not forget the beautiful tropical flowers. Bougainvillea, poinciana, hibiscus, and frangipani were floating along at my feet. It was an enlightening and quite beautiful contrast in such a changed landscape.
It’s easy to see the devastation and focus on that. Instead, I chose to take a moment to actually look at the trees, leaves and flowers that had fallen. I started to pick up things of interest. The first was a beautiful torn sunset colored sea almond leaf. I also made sure to take its fruits and long strands of tiny delicate off-white flowers.
The sea almond leaf and its fruits and flowers.
I grabbed the top of a baby coconut that was so curled it looked like a chocolate flower. Next, I picked up fallen Spanish limes. As I walked through the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, birds delighted themselves in the fallen branches, bringing new life to the chaos.
Quite soon I had a lovely collection of botanical beauties, each found while walking around the block. Once I was home, it was time to put them all together and assemble “Beryl’s beauties” into a lovely composition on the sketchbook page.
The sketchbook page
Includes: (1st page) Trumpet tree leaf, flower, and bud; baby coconut; Sea Almond torn leaf; flower inflorescences, unripe with fruits. (2nd page) Purple bougainvillea, Royal Poinciana opening flowers, baby coconut, Spanish Cedar branch, hibiscus, and Scarlet Jungleflame.
Picking up my black pen I sat down to sketch each of Beryl’s botanical treasures. This was a lovely way to process the hurricane. I found beauty in the broken and reveled in it.
Over the next couple of days, the page grew as I added other beautiful botanicals. Room was made for native plants, which I prioritized over introduced species. I wanted to show the true beauty of the Yucatán’s flora and celebrate all that is great about life here. This felt even more right after meeting workers cleaning up the debris on the streets.
The magic of the Mamey
Thrilled I was taking an interest in one of ‘their trees’ the workers were really sweet. They stopped briefly when I asked them about the small brown fruits at my feet. Pointing up, I looked to see large tan color fruits, about the size of a grapefruit. Seeing my interest in their native flora, their faces lit up.
Cracked open unripe Mamey fruit with small immature fallen fruits (top right) and the gorgeous big seeds cracked open.
Laughing, they bent over backward to find what I wanted. Debris went flying as they began digging into big clumps of raked up leaves. Tossing them aside to find the treasure, they eventually delivered me the beautiful seeds.
Of course, after that fun exchange, the mamey became the next of Beryl’s beauties to be added.
Beryl showed me I’m a crazy plant lady
I admit it. Finding these little treasures lifted my heart. Plants have always fascinated me. So finding new ones and identifying native plants made my heart sing. It’s a way of connecting with nature and with my surroundings.
It took a day to sketch all 28 items. It was a time out for my brain and my heart — time to think, process, and see beauty in the aftermath. Plus, I discovered new flora I hadn’t seen before.
I discovered a fallen strawberry tree right near my house. Little birds feasting on fruits called my attention to the fallen tree. How had I not noticed this tree before? It took Beryl throwing it at my feet to see beautiful fruits, learn they were edible, and then people make jam from it!
The fruit of the strawberry tree
Art therapy can be healing
They say art is therapy. I believe this to be true. But I also adore color and what drew me to a lot of these botanicals was their lovely, vibrant color. So, I’ve added color. Layer upon layer of watercolor.
Mind you, it’s not totally finished. But honestly I don’t know if it ever will be. I like both the faint and bold washes of color. Just like the washes of rain floating flowers down the street. Some leaves were damaged, losing their color. Others were bold and striking.
So, for now, it’s finished .. but next week, this Batty Botanist may change her mind … who knows!
Sketching and painting them gives me great joy, which is why I have just started the Batty Botanist project. If you’d like to see more, you can find me on Facebook and Instagram.
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.
Airlines don't go to high school, but we've prepared a yearbook-style ranking to help you choose the best way to fly next time you take off from Mexico. (Stefan Fluck/Unsplash)
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of touching down onto the runway of your favorite destination and feeling the little thrill of excitement that blossoms in the belly as you impatiently await the offboarding process, eager to embark upon a new adventure or reconnect with a city you love.
And yet the beginning of your trip can just as easily be sullied or enhanced by the quality of the journey. Flights can spit out either irritable, unsatisfied passengers or deliver smiling ones, energetically floating off to their next destination.
Your choice of airline can make a huge difference to the quality of your trip. (Jeshoots/Unsplash)
Most passengers have varying priorities which make for distinct expectations on travel factors including cost, quality of service, comfort, amenities or flight availability. Mexico’s airlines offer varying benefits — or drawbacks — depending on one’s preferences and needs.
Turbulence and triumph
In 2021, Mexico’s FAA Category 1 status was downgraded to Category 2 by the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), due to failure to meet International Civil Aviation Organization safety standards during an audit. The loss of Category 1 status had several significant implications, including the blocking of new transborder route launches to the US and the restriction of new aircraft additions to existing routes.
To regain Category 1 status, the government and aviation authorities undertook a series of corrective actions to address the deficiencies identified by the FAA, culminating in Mexico regaining its status in September 2023.
Since then, the aviation industry in Mexico has more than recovered, skyrocketing to ever greater heights. Mexico now leads Latin America in international passenger volumes, contributing around22% of the region’s air traffic. The Mexican government is continuing to expand and upgrade aviation infrastructure, including promoting sustainability to meet global CO2 emission targets.
Meanwhile, as a boon to the country’s most visited city, the new Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) aims to decongest Mexico City International Airport (MEX) and is gradually increasing operations. In 2023, the country also revived its government-run Mexicana de Aviación airline, enlarging its role in the aviation sector. Many experts agree that the sky’s the limit for the growth of Mexico’s airline travel.
Below, we’ve ranked the top five airlines for you and assigned them yearbook-style superlatives, based on factors including regional focus, cost, comfort, amenities, customer service and flight availability.
The top Mexican airlines are:
Aeroméxico
Yearbook superlative: Best in class
(Government of Mexico)
Though currently undergoing financial restructuring after Chapter 11 bankruptcy, Aeroméxico remains Mexico’s largest national carrier. Considered the best airline overall, it’s part of the SkyTeam alliance and has a strong reputation for reliability, comfort and quality service.
Aeroméxico offers an extensive domestic and international route network, flying to popular destinations like Cancun, Guadalajara and Monterrey, as well as major cities in the US, Europe and Asia. While Aeroméxico tickets are often more expensive compared to budget airlines, many find the extra cost worth it for the better service and amenities. Passengers appreciate the spacious seating, attentive in-flight service and amenities like personal entertainment screens, complimentary meals on international flights and Wi-Fi on most long-haul flights.
Volaris
Yearbook superlative: Most competitive
(CC BY-SA 4.0)
Volaris is a low-cost carrier that provides affordable domestic and international flights. While not as luxurious as Aeroméxico, Volaris offers a decent level of comfort and service for the price. The airline flies to over 70 destinations in Mexico, the US, Central America and the Caribbean and aims to keep costs down by offering basic services with options to pay for additional amenities. Case in point: checked baggage fees and seat selection cost extra, but good deals are available on base fares, and carry-on luggage is usually included.
Volaris has a young fleet of Airbus aircraft and provides basic in-flight services like snacks and drinks for purchase. Seats can be cramped, especially on longer flights, and in-flight entertainment is typically not provided, so passengers should bring their own devices. The airline is considered by some to be the worst Mexican airline due to frequent flight delays and cancellations, while the check-in process can sometimes be chaotic and time-consuming. Downloading their app before the flight can help smooth the check-in process though.
VivaAerobus
Yearbook superlative: Most frequent flier
(Oliver Holzbauer/Flickr)
VivaAerobus is Volaris’ main ultra-low-cost rival in Mexico. The two airlines compete aggressively on price to attract the cost-conscious traveler. It has an extensive domestic route network and some flights to the US.
VivaAerobus keeps fares low by charging extra for nearly everything: checked bags, carry-on bags, seat selection, and food and drink. The seats are basic and the legroom is tight. However, if you pack light and bring your own snacks, you can get very cheap base fares.
The airline has been subject to numerous complaints about late or rescheduled flights, long deplaning processes and customer service that leaves much to be desired. That said, its airbus fleet operates over 215 daily flights, allowing it to provide the most options for fliers.
Mexicana de Aviación
Yearbook superlative: Most missed
(Mexicana de Aviación/Facebook)
Once state-run, Mexicana was Mexico’s oldest and largest airline until it was privatized in 2005 and ceased operations in 2010. In late 2023, the airline was revived under new government ownership and now operates a limited domestic route network out of Mexico City’s new Felipe Ángeles International Airport. It offers affordable fares up to 20% lower than competitors.
A quick search on the Mexicana website for a trip from Felipe Ángeles to Guadalajara in September showed fares as low as 499 pesos for a one-way ticket — a steal. The airline offers enhanced legroom options for an additional cost and provides free carry-on and checked baggage. Unlike many budget airlines, the fleet features personal screens with in-flight entertainment.
TAR Aerolíneas
Yearbook superlative: Most underrated
(Wikimedia)
If you’ve ever wondered what TAR stands for, it’s “Transportes Aéreos Regionales,” or Regional Air Transport. TAR is a 100% Mexican airline based in Querétaro that aims to become the strongest regional airline in Mexico. It operates scheduled flights to 34 domestic destinations via a fleet of small Embraer ERJ-145 aircraft with 50 seats each.
TAR offers complimentary checked baggage up to 25 kg, a 10 kg carry-on and a personal item. While not as large as some other airlines, TAR provides an important regional network connecting smaller cities across Mexico, with a focus on cities in Guadalajara, Monterrey and Puerto Vallarta. Passengers praise TAR’s friendly service and convenience for regional travel. The airline’s affordable fares and included baggage make it a good option for domestic trips.
From tarmac to takeoff: A flight for everyone
With options ranging from luxurious international flights to affordable regional hops, there’s an airline to suit every budget, preference and adventure. From the national pride of Aeroméxico to the budget-friendly Volaris and VivaAerobus, the resurgence of Mexicana and the regional charm of TAR Aerolíneas, each carrier brings its unique flavor to the skies. The best choice depends on your budget and priorities. Buen viaje!
Monica Belot is a writer, researcher, strategist and adjunct professor at Parsons School of Design in New York City, where she teaches in the Strategic Design & Management Program. Splitting her time between NYC and Mexico City, where she resides with her naughty silver labrador puppy Atlas, Monica writes about topics spanning everything from the human experience to travel and design research. Follow her varied scribbles on Medium at https://medium.com/@monicabelot.
The archeological site of Guachimontones, Jalisco, promises history, mystery and nature for anyone that visits. (Shutterstock)
Mexico’s archaeological sites are among the best in the world. Iconic ancient cities and complexes like Teotihuacan in Mexico City or Chichén Itzá in Yucatán draw thousands of visitors every year. These remnants of bygone civilizations are famed across the world and rightfully celebrated as top tourist attractions in the country. Yet, among these storied landmarks lies one of Mexico’s most mysterious and intriguing sites: The Guachimontones ruins.
Located in the state of Jalisco, near the town of Teuchitlán, Guachimontones offers a unique glimpse into a lesser-known but equally fascinating ancient culture. This pre-Hispanic site, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its unusual circular stepped pyramids, distinct from the more commonly seen square or rectangular structures found elsewhere in Mesoamerica.
What exactly lies in Guachimontones? Nobody is quite sure. (Gobierno de Jalisco)
These pyramids, ball courts, and other ceremonial spaces take visitors on a walk through history into the Teuchitlan tradition, a culture that flourished from around 300 BCE to 900 CE.
The state of Jalisco is known for different Mexican legacies: tequila, mariachi, and charrería, for example. But we can also add indigenous culture and ancient city complexes to the list of Jalisco’s heritage. A quick day trip from Guadalajara, the site of Guachimontones makes a compelling destination for travelers who want to dive deeper into the archaeology, history, and indigenous culture of this pocket of Jalisco. Read on to dive into our guide to visiting Guachimontones.
Where is Guachimontones?
Guachimontones is located in the state of Jalisco, about an hour west of Guadalajara. It’s an easy drive from the city to visit the archaeological site. Buses are also available from Guadalajara to Teuchitlan; you can take a taxi to the site from there.
History of Guachimontones
It is thought that the site of Guachimontones was inhabited from 300 BC to 350 AD and was used as a spiritual center by the Teuchitlán people. There were 10 circular complexes that surrounded the central pyramid. What remains of the structures today sit majestically perched on a grassy hill that looks down into the town of Teuchitlán.
Not a tremendous amount is known about the Teuchitlán culture but it is thought that they developed social, political, and economic systems. Their main activities revolved around agriculture, craft making, and trade.
A map of Mexico’s Pacific coast showing the Teuchitlán area of influence within the region. (Wikimedia Commons)
The nearby volcano helped to create one of the largest reserves of obsidian in the world. You can find evidence of shiny black obsidian all over the complex. The original people of Teuchitlan crafted obsidian into weapons and tools and used these for trade with other Mesoamerican cultures. Their decline is also a bit of a mystery for experts, but some attribute it to environmental changes, resource depletion, or social upheaval.
The site was first excavated in the 1970s by American archaeologist Phil Weigand. Not much has changed at Guachimontones since. Walking around the circular temple complexes is like taking steps back in time. With the backdrop of the looming volcano and the undulated fields of blue-green agave plants, it’s easy to leave the 21st century behind and tap into the history of Jalisco. Guachimontones is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the rich culture and heritage of pre-Hispanic Jalisco.
Best Time to Visit Guachimontones
The best time to visit Guachimontones is the dry season, from November to April. The weather is warm, but not too hot. There isn’t much shade cover at the archaeological complex, so visiting before the summer heat and humidity is a plus.
If you visit just after the rainy season, the mounds will be carpeted with lush, moss colored grass, which always looks great in pictures.
Top Sites at Guachimontones
A visit to the site is also a great chance to take a break from the beach life and reconnect with the world of inland Mexico. (Azucena Madrigal/Facebook)
Circular Pyramids: The highlight of Guachimontones is its series of circular stepped pyramids. The largest, known as the Great Guachi, stands at around 18 meters tall.
Ball courts: Some of the largest ball courts in Mesoamerica can be found here in Guachimontones.
Interpretation Center: A recently renovated interpretation center goes deeper into the history and significance of the site through exhibits and multimedia presentations.
Hiking and nature walks: The surrounding area offers beautiful landscapes for hiking and nature walks. The Tequila Volcano is visible from the site, which adds to the drama of the backdrop.
Guided tours: Take a tour of Guachimontones with a local guide, to gain deeper insight into the history and architecture of the site.
Guachimontones is a much smaller site than Teotihuacan or Chichén Itzá. The average trip is between about one and three hours, touring the museum and the park.
Tips for Visitors to Guachimontones
Wear comfortable shoes: The site is toured on foot, which can mean quite a bit of walking. Comfortable shoes are a must.
Bring water and snacks: There are limited facilities on site, so bring water and snacks for hydration and energy.
Wear sunscreen: The site has little to no shade cover so bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
Where to Stay near Guachimontones
Hacienda El Carmen offers a splash of luxury for visitors looking to spend the night in the area. (Hacienda El Carmen)
Guachimontones is a quick day trip from Guadalajara, but visitors who want to experience Jalisco’s rural countryside can book a stay at a historic hacienda. Hacienda El Carmen, for example, is a 17th century retreat just 15 minutes from the archaeological site. Originally established as a sugarcane plantation, the hacienda has undergone transformations over the centuries to become the stately accommodations that it is today.
Guests are greeted to the hacienda by vine-covered yellow adobe walls, red-tiled roofs, and grand arches. The estate is set amidst lush gardens, tranquil ponds, and ancient trees. The lofty ceilinged rooms are decorated with antique furnishings and traditional Mexican decor.
While on the property, guests can indulge in spa treatments or swim in the outdoor pool. The hacienda’s on-site restaurant serves Mexican cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. If you’re only visiting Guachimontones for the day, Hacienda El Carmen is a perfect place to stop for lunch after your tour.
Meagan Drillinger is a New York native who has spent the past 15 years traveling around and writing about Mexico. While she’s on the road for assignments most of the time, Puerto Vallarta is her home base. Follow her travels on Instagram at @drillinjourneys or through her blog at drillinjourneys.com.
