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Top 5 short hikes in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit

By
Meagan Drillinger
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Take in waterfalls, mountain views and oceanside dining with our selection of great short hikes from Puerto Vallarta. (Garza Blanca)

If you look at Puerto Vallarta and see only beach, you’re seeing it wrong. The crown of Sierra Madre mountains that wreath the historic city and loom over the sweeping Bay of Banderas are just as important a part of the Puerto Vallarta package. In those mountains, from end to end of the bay, are dozens of hiking trails beckoning the intrepid to get away from the sand and cobblestones and deep into the verdant jungle. 

Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding towns have many excellent hiking trails of varying levels, whether you’re looking for a leisurely beach stroll or a vertical ascent to pump your heart rate. Here are a few of the best hikes in Puerto Vallarta.

Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas

Length: 4.8 miles (out and back)

Boca de Tomatlán
Start your hike in picturesque Boca de Tomatlán. (Visit Puerto Vallarta)

Let’s start with a bang, shall we? If you’re looking for a perfect blend of adventure, stunning scenery, and beachside relaxation, the hike from Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas in Puerto Vallarta is my favorite hike.

As you set off from the trailhead at the back of the parking lot in Boca de Tomatlán, you’ll quickly immerse yourself in the jungle. The trail meanders along the stunning coastline, opening up to view after view of the Bay of Banderas. 

One of the best parts of this hike is the series of pristine, undeveloped beaches you’ll encounter along the way. These hidden gems, like Playa Colomitos and Playa Caballos, offer the perfect spots for a refreshing dip or just to bask in the sun. The beaches are quiet and untouched and frequently empty of many other tourists, making you feel like you’ve landed on uncharted islands.

The hike itself is moderately challenging but worth every step. As you navigate the sometimes rocky, sometimes sandy trail, the sounds of the waves crashing and the vibrant tropical birds singing create a natural soundtrack that is nothing short of magic.

Why not call into Maraika on the way, and make a romantic oceanside meal a part of your hike? (Maraika)

After about an hour and a half to two hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at the lively and colorful Playa Las Animas. Here you can kick back and enjoy a well-deserved break. Consider stopping for lunch a few beaches prior at Casitas Maraika, a rustic-chic beachfront day club and bungalows that serves delicious seafood and incredible views. 

If you want to push yourself further, you can continue past Las Animas to Playa Quimixto, a relatively quiet beach that is the perfect spot to unwind after a hike. The beach is known for its laid-back vibe, crystal clear waters, and a small village with a gorgeous waterfall. Remember that forging on to Playa Quimixto will add another two miles, one way, to the hike.

When it’s time to head back, you have several options. If you’re up for more adventure, retrace your steps and hike back to Boca de Tomatlán. Alternatively, hop on a water taxi for a quick and scenic ride back, allowing you to enjoy the coastal views from a different perspective. 

Yelapa Waterfall

Length: 1.6 miles (out and back)

A trip to one of Puerto Vallarta’s most Instagrammable waterfalls is a must for any aspiring influencer. (Exploratory Glory)

The remote community of Yelapa is a favorite for Puerto Vallarta residents. Accessible only by boat (mostly), Yelapa is a small beachfront village surrounded on either side by towering mountains and sliced by a river. If you want to experience the beauty of Yelapa, the Palo Maria waterfall hike is an adventure.

Getting to Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta is part of the fun — you’ll need to take a water taxi either from Los Muertos Pier in Zona Romantica or from Boca de Tomatlan. The ride is a scenic journey along the southern coast of the Bay of Banderas, offering stunning coastal views.

Once you arrive in Yelapa, you’ll feel the laid-back vibe that feels worlds away from Puerto Vallarta. Before you head off on the hike, consider fueling up at one of the delightful beach restaurants. Cafe Bahia and Sirena Morena are great options, offering delicious, freshly prepared seafood right on the sand. If you have time, spending the night in Yelapa is a fantastic idea — several cozy guesthouses and bungalows are available.

The hike to the waterfall is a journey through Yelp’s lush landscape. As you begin, the trail winds through dense jungle with vibrant green foliage and the sounds of exotic birds. The path is well-marked, but be prepared for some rocky and uneven terrain. Sturdy shoes are a must.

Sirena Morena, Yelapa, Jalisco
Refuel at one of Yelapa’s great lunch spots, like Sirena Morena. (Sirena Morena/Instagram)

The further you go, the more you’ll feel like you’ve entered a hidden paradise. You’ll cross a few small streams and might even encounter some local wildlife along the way. The trail is shaded and cool, making it a pleasant hike even on warmer days.

After about an hour of hiking, you’ll reach the Palo Maria waterfall, a cascading force of gushing water that plunges into a cool, clear pool at the base. Stop here to cool off, picnic, or simply admire the falls. If you want, you can push yourself a bit further to keep going to a second waterfall. The hike to the second is a bit more challenging, with a steeper ascent, but the payoff is worth it. 

Once you’ve soaked it in, make your way back to Yelapa. When you return to town, consider unwinding at one of the beach bars, like Chico’s Cantina. 

Mirador Cerro de La Cruz

Length: 0.5 miles (loop)

Mirador el Cerro de la Cruz, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico 🇲🇽

If you’re looking for a quick but rewarding adventure without leaving Puerto Vallarta, the hike up to Mirador Cerro de la Cruz is a perfect choice. Atop a hill right in the heart of the city, this viewpoint has some of the most beautiful views over downtown Puerto Vallarta and the Bay of Banderas.

The ascent to Mirador Cerro de la Cruz is short but challenging, making it an ideal option for those who want to get their heart pumping without committing to a full-day hike. Starting from the Zona Romantica, you’ll navigate cobblestone streets and traditional houses before the real climb begins.

As you start the ascent, you’ll encounter a series of steps that wind up the hill. It’s a bit of a workout, but the payoff is absolutely worth it. Take your time and enjoy the journey — there’s no shame in stopping to catch your breath and admire the views along the way.

Once you reach the top, you’ll be greeted with visas over the entire city, the mountains, and the bay. Be sure to bring the camera — it’s a view you won’t want to miss.

Malecón

Length: 1.9 miles (out and back)

Puerto Vallarta Malecon
Take a stroll down Puerto Vallarta’s famous boardwalk, the Malecón. (Visit Puerto Vallarta)

Strolling along the Malecón in Puerto Vallarta is a great way to get moving without having to travel far or work too intensely. Plus, you can soak in the city’s sights and energy while enjoying a leisurely walk. The iconic seaside promenade stretches about a mile along the downtown waterfront, offering a mix of natural beauty, art, and local life.

Starting your walk, you’ll have uninterrupted views of the Bay of Banderas on one side and the colorful streets of Puerto Vallarta on the other. With palm trees swaying, the air filled with the sound of music, and the aromas of street food, it’s one of the must-do activities in Puerto Vallarta. 

Be sure to head all the way to the northern section of the Malecon to see the sculptures that line the shoreline. These artworks, created by Mexican and international artists, add a touch of whimsy to the stroll. My favorite is “Nostalgia,” by Jose Ramiz Barquet, but there are about a dozen others to admire and choose your own.

The Malecón has restaurants, cafes, and bars, each offering something different. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, traditional Mexican dishes, or international cuisine, there’s something for everyone. La Dolce Vita is a favorite for Italian cuisine, while La Bodeguita del Medio is great for authentic Cuban food and live music.

Monkey Mountain

Length: 4.3 miles (out and back)

Monkey Mountain summit
When it comes to views of the Bay of Banderas, the vista from the peak of Monkey Mountain is hard to top. (Nuevo Vallarta Tours)

If you’re up for an adventure that rewards you with spectacular views, hiking up Monkey Mountain in Sayulita is a great way to spend the day. This hike offers a mix of challenges, stunning views, and Sayulita’s fun energy, which you can enjoy afterward.

The hike begins in Sayulita, known for its bohemian vibe, surf culture, and great food. The Monkey Mountain trailhead is a short drive from Sayulita in the nearby village of Higuera Blanca. You’ll start by following a dirt road into the jungle.

The hike up Monkey Mountain takes effort, but the views are worth it. As you make your way up, you’ll be surrounded by dense foliage, colorful flowers, and the jungle soundtrack. The path can be steep and rocky in parts, so be sure to wear proper shoes and bring plenty of water.

As you climb, the views become more and more wow-worthy. About halfway up, you’ll reach a clearing that offers a sneak peek of what’s to come — panoramic views of the coastline and the rolling green hills below.

The final push to the summit is steep, but once you reach the top, you’ll have 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean and the landscape below. It’s the perfect spot to take pictures and breathe in the stunning Nayarit coastline.

After designing, head back to Sayulita to celebrate with a post-hike treat at ORGANI-K Sayulita. If you’re in the mood for something more lively, grab a seat at the beachfront bars. You can also use our weekend guide to Sayulita for more ideas on what to see and do in this popular beach town.

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.

Becoming a kid again: How Mexico has unleashed my inner childhood superhero

By
Tamanna Bembenek
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Tamanna Bembenek with a baby sea turtle
Tamanna feeling like a kid again releasing a baby turtle in Oaxaca. (Courtesy)

A few weeks ago, someone reached out to me to do a podcast on my “story.” This person profiles leaders in the healthcare industry who are trying to address a big problem or change the world through their innovation.

I was quite intimidated and my first reaction was that I don’t really belong on the list of accomplished leaders he had shared with me, but he convinced me otherwise.

We got talking, the time flew and the recording of the podcast lasted over two hours — he said it was the longest one he has ever done. I told him that I hoped that he had a good editor!

A very memorable part of the podcast was a conversation we had around the concept of fiction vs. non-fiction.

I grew up reading many comic books written by brilliant writers/creators from the U.K., U.S., Belgium and of course, India. Many of them were rooted in exploration, adventure, magical powers, history or folklore. I remember getting completely immersed while reading them over and over again.

My favorite comic book series was based on stories of adventures in Latin America. I remember feeling as if I was being transported back in time with the characters — I was right there with them, discovering the Aztec pyramids and searching for treasures and gems in the caves and caverns of Mexico. My mom would also read me fascinating stories about real-life female heroes like Hellen Keller, Marie Curie, or Amelia Earheart. I think that her objective was that she wanted me to believe that I had unlimited potential as a little girl, no matter what I chose to do.

As I told the podcast interviewer, “it was precisely that ability to imagine, to fantasize, to dream and to aspire that I wanted to get back to when I quit my professional healthcare career and moved to Mexico.”

Above all, I wanted and needed to reclaim those abilities. As an adult, I had lost the ability to play, to create an imaginary world and from time to time, give myself permission to get lost in it. I missed that feeling of child-like optimism, as if there was no limit to my super powers. I wanted to feel again that I could be anything and anyone I wanted to be. As an adult, I longed for that little girl that my adult grown-up version wished for and needed as a friend.

Little did I know that I needed an environment where I could recreate an adult version of comic books from my childhood and transport myself into them — Jumanji style. I loved watercolors when I was a kid, my two favorite colors were fuchsia pink and parrot green; bright and happy colors.

I loved painting nature scenes — mountains, rivers, trees with kids playing in nature together, it felt all very timeless now that I think about it. In my heart, I knew that I needed to be surrounded by colors, plants, plant lovers, and adorable little kids, who would teach me how to slow down time. You could say that I needed a new playground and serendipitously, I chose Mexico.

Allowing myself to be a kid again has not been an easy process for an intense, workaholic, efficient person like me. The most interesting self-discovery I have made is that an essential part of staying optimistic as an adult is to allow yourself to stay curious but playful.

Here are few qualities that I am re-embracing from childhood and my grown-up interpretation of them:

  1. Short-term memory: Forgetting the past, shedding negativity, creating new memories.
  2. Imagination: Experimenting. Dreaming. Enjoying the process of creation without worrying about an outcome: Building a business.
  3. Play: Smiling more often. Fully immerse in the act..gardening, cooking, painting, reading, swimming, talking to friends, watching it rain for hours.
  4. Ignoring noise: Realizing that whatever doesn’t bring me joy or growth is “noise.”
  5. Observing: Less scrolling and less talking. Remembering how to use my other senses. Intuition.
  6. Forgetting time: Not celebrating years in birthdays. The best anti-aging treatment.
  7. Disregarding: The stumbles in life and work and trying again and again. This one has been hard but very satisfying.
  8. Curiosity: Letting go of a scarcity mindset. Being a life-long student.
  9. Love: More hugs and kisses.
  10. Super powers: Believing. Manifesting. Focusing on where I want to go, what I want to be — without looking around.

As an adult, the world feels so heavy in today’s political environment. When I turn on the TV, whether it’s news or Netflix-type shows, what I watch brings a lot of anxiety. It feels like all media platforms are trying to spike my dopamine (related to addiction) or epinephrine (related to flight or fight response).

As a result, I find myself increasingly limiting my consumption to what I find inspiring or relaxing. Sometimes, it is watching cartoons or drawing cartoons. Other times, it is real-life stories of inspiring people — just like what my mom used to read to me. All of this helps me balance my “other” neuromodulators that increase brain health, well-being and overall happiness.

My Mexico life so far has been a delightful reminder that life shouldn’t be all grown-up seriousness all the time.

Who could have imagined that all this time I just needed to channel my inner five-year-old self to dream again? I have rediscovered that there is immense power in play, curiosity, and a healthy dose of believing that “I can be a superhero if I want to!”

So next time you feel the world getting you down, remember, it’s perfectly okay to grab your favorite crayons and dream up a world where you have the most magnificent (and possibly slightly ridiculous) superpower ever.

After all, who wouldn’t want to take on the challenge of a media business in Mexico and in the process attempt to protect the sovereignty and independence of the human brain from being programmed by AI? Now that sounds like something to write a comic book about!

More articles by Tamanna on MND:

Mexico and mental health: Exploring the power of traditions and faith

Behind the scenes at Mexico News Daily: Our interview on ‘Mexico Matters’ podcast

3 things I learned from moving to Mexico and buying a business

Tamanna Bembenek was born in India, studied and worked in the U.S. and lives in Mexico with her husband, Travis. They are the co-owners of Mexico News Daily.

The ultimate guide to the districts of Mexico City

By
Bethany Platanella
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2
Angel of independence, Mexico City
Mexico City, home to millions. We've all been to Condesa and Roma, but what lies in the other 15 regions of the capital? (Marriot Bonvoy)

The first two times I visited Mexico City, it was known as el defe, or the DF. The third time, which was only about one year later, it was completely rebranded. The DF was now known as CDMX, and everything from those fancy letter signs to pink and white taxis were there to remind you. There were no guides to the sprawling mass back and it’s alcadías back then, and much of Mexico City still remains a mystery to visitors today.

The transformation of Distrito Federal, the nearly 200-year nomenclature for Mexico’s brilliant capital, into CDMX was a move made by Mayor Mancera for several reasons. Politically, it gave the city more autonomy from the Federal Government, preventing overreach such as that of Vincente Fox, who removed Marcelo Ebrard, Secretary of Public Security, from office after an incident that resulted in the death of two police officers. Fox did so without properly consulting the city’s head of government, which was AMLO at the time. 

Map of CDMX
The 16 alcaldías that make up the capital. (INEGI)

The new name also served as a marketing move. Bloomberg Associates worked with then-Mayor Mancera and the Tourism Development Fund to showcase Mexico City as one of the world’s leading destinations, using its influence to post the capital at the top of the New York Times’ 52 Places to Visit list in 2016.

Maybe it’s not on top of the Times list today, but it’s still brimming with tourists and positively overflowing with expats, many of whom don’t really know the city outside of five major colonias: Condesa, Roma, Juarez, Polanco, and Centro. 

In some ways, it makes sense. World Population Review ranks la CDMX as the 7th most populous city in the world which spreads out 1,485 square kilometers (Read MND’s article Just how big is Mexico City). It’s a confusing megapolis, to say the least, and it takes real commitment to understand it in all its glory.

With that said, I’ve done my best to break la CDMX down into bite-sized pieces. 16 of them, to be exact. As CDMX is, just as DF was, made up of 16 delegations known as alcadías, each of which has its own government body voted in every three years. Within those alcadías are 1,812 colonias (according to Raúl Fregoso Noble, architect and tour guide for ToursenBici) and within those colonias are countless street vendors, cantinas, churches, juice carts, fancy cafes, fancier restaurants, high rises, low rises, and every possible thing in between.

The CDMX of today is just as full of life, food and color as el DF was before it. (Graciela López Herrera/Cuartoscuro)

Disclaimer: If you plan to visit as many alcadías as possible, please do your due diligence before going! While I’ve included colonias to stay away from, it is not an inclusive list. Areas like Iztapalapa, Xochimilco, Tlalpan, and parts of Cuauhtémoc are not safe and should be avoided, especially at night. We recommended taking a guided tour where possible. 

In addition, the number of colonias per alcadía is often disputed. I included the number most repeated in my research.

Álvaro Obregón

Álvaro Obregón
Álvaro Obregón hosts the upmarket and ultra-modern Santa Fe business district. (Expedia)

Named after a great revolutionary and former president of Mexico, Alcaldía Álvaro Obregón is the third most populated district in Mexico City. It’s a mismatch of oversized, shiny commercial centers and quaint, cobblestone corners. Frida Kalho and Diego Rivera’s house and studio, which is now a museum, is located on the edge of one of these tree-lined streets. The sprawling zone includes colonias San Ángel, Santa Fe (which is also zoned in Alcadía Cuajimalpa de Morelos), and Las Águilas.

How many colonias are in Álvaro Obregón? 258 colonias

What’s the population of Álvaro Obregón? 759,137 as of 2020

What are three things to see in Álvaro Obregón? Shop at the Saturday Bazaar in San Ángel, have authentic sushi at Casa de Cultura Japonesa in Las Águilas, and visit the 16th Century La Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Asunción.

Azcapotzalco

Azcapotcalco
Azcapotcalco, a relatively quiet area on the northwestern fringe of the capital. (Oasis Hoteles)

In Náhuatl, it means anthills. According to traditional beliefs of the Mexica, Quetzalcóatl noticed a considerable population of ants, and soon realized they were guarding an abundance of corn. Like any smart deity, Quetzalcóatl dressed himself in the guise of an ant to bypass a tough security team, steal the corn, and feed the world’s first humans. Inhabitants are known as chintololos, a once-derogatory name given by the Mexica meaning those with “round backsides”.

How many colonias are in Azcapotzalco? 61 colonias, 15 pueblos, 11 barrios

What’s the population of Azcapotzalco? 432,205 as of 2020

What are three things to see in Azcapotzalco? Go for a walk through Parque Tezozómoc in Zona Metropolitana, visit the Casa de Cultura in Centro Azcapotzalco, have a tipple at 100+ year old cantina El Dux de Venecia. 

Benito Juárez

Benito Juárez is home to some of the capital’s well-to-do residential districts, such as Del Valle and Napolés, as well as bustling areas like Portales. (Expedia)

The borough was established in 1972 and named after Mexico’s first indigenous president. Within Benito Juárez are familiar colonias such as Napolés, Portales, and Del Valle. The area was once part of Lake Texcoco and the site of numerous islands peppered with settlements and multi-family homes. The lake disappeared at the hands of the conquistadors, but some of the settlements remain, including the Mixcoac archaeological zone. 

How many colonias are in Benito Juárez? 56 colonias

What’s the population of Benito Juárez? 434,153 as of 2020

What are three things to see in Benito Juárez? Visit the imposing Hacienda de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad de los Portales, see the Parroquia de Santo Domingo de Guzmán in Mixcoac, and relax with a snack in Parque Hundido.

Coyoacán

Coyoacan square
The cultural history of the capital is writ large in Coyoacán. (Get Your Guide)

Coyoacán has a rich history dating back 25 centuries. Its Nahuatl name means “place of the coyote owners” and is now known largely for figures like Frida Khalo, Diego Rivera, and Leon Trosky. Hernán Cortés founded the first town hall here, likely attracted to its fertile land and lush vegetation. It’s colonial feel entices young families and seniors who gather to danzón in the square.

How many colonias are in Coyoacán? 82 colonias, 9 barrios, 4 pueblos

What’s the population of Coyoacán? 614.447 as of 2020

What are three things to see in Coyoacán? Visit the Diego Rivera Anahuacalli Museum, see an independent film at Cineteca Nacional, soak in the scene by the coyote fountain at Coyoacán’s Central Plaza. 

Cuajimalpa de Morelos

Cuajimalpa de Morelos
Cuajimalpa, which borders neighboring México state, is seeing rapid development. (Inmuebles24)

The direct translation of the Nahuatl word from which the name derives is “the place where wood is carved”. Founded by the Tepanacs and eventually conquered by the Spanish, documents show that Spanish soldiers took a respite here after the bloody battle known as La Noche Triste (or Victorious Night, depending on who’s talking). 

How many colonias are in Cuajimalpa de Morelos? 39 colonias, 5 pueblos

What’s the population of Cuajimalpa de Morelos? 217,686 as of 2020

What are three things to see in Cuajimalpa de Morelos? Visit the famous Parroquia de San Pedro Apóstol, stop at the ruins of a convent while hiking in Desierto de los Leones National Park, have a fancy meal at La Parque Mexicana in Santa Fe.

Cuauhtémoc

Cuauhtémoc
Chances are if you’ve been to Mexico City, you’re already familiar with Cuauhtémoc. (Wikimedia)

Herein lies the true heart of the city. Make that, the country. Not because the municipality is known for buzzing expat outposts like Roma and Condesa. Not because it’s named after the rather guapo Mexica leader who led the final resistance against the Spanish in the 14th Century. Cuauhtémoc is the past and present political center of the country, from the reign of Tenochtitlan to the days of Claudia Sheinbaum. To spend a day in Centro Historico wouldn’t scratch the surface of things to discover in the historically rich and populous borough, undoubtedly the city’s most visited.

How many colonias are in Cuauhtémoc? 33 colonias

What’s the population of Cuauhtémoc? 545,884 as of 2020

What are three things to see in Cuauhtémoc? Spend hours in the Museum of Templo Mayor, see a folkloric show at The Fine Arts museum (Bellas Artes), and people watch in Condesa’s Parque Mexico.

Colonias to avoid: La Guerrero, Morelos, Centro (off the tourist circuit)

Gustavo A. Madero

Gustavo A. Madero
One of Mexico City’s lesser famed regions, the alcaldía sees millions of pilgrims attend the Basilica of our Lady of Guadalupe, a major pilgrimage. (Wikimedia)

It wasn’t until 1931 that the capital’s second biggest municipality was named after the Mexican politician known for both his role in the revolution and for saving his brother, President Francisco I. Madero, from assassination. However, the crown jewel of Gustavo A. Madero is the Basilica of our Lady of Guadalupe, which attracts nearly 10 million pilgrims each year.

How many colonias are there in Gustavo A. Madero? 194 colonias

What’s the population of Gustavo A. Madero? 1,173,351 as of 2020

What are three things to see in Gustavo A. Madero? There’s one, and that’s the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Colonias to avoid: San Felipe de Jesús

 

Bethany Platanella is a travel planner and lifestyle writer based in Mexico City. She lives for the dopamine hit that comes directly after booking a plane ticket, exploring local markets, practicing yoga and munching on fresh tortillas. Sign up to receive her Sunday Love Letters to your inbox, peruse her blog, or follow her on Instagram.

A very straightforward guide to staying safe in Mexico

By
Sarah DeVries
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18
Staying safe in Mexico is actually very easy and requires little more than common sense. Here are some tips on things to avoid. (Natalya Zaritskaya/Unsplash)

How safe is Mexico? I’ll see your question and raise you one: How safe is your country?

When I first came to Mexico over 20 years ago, people would often ask me things like “Are you sure it’s safe there?” The implication, of course, was that it wasn’t, and that I was a dummy for moving here.

Cinco de Mayo celebrations Puebla
This is not what living in Mexico is really like, needless to say. The United States sometimes feels like it though. (Hilda Ríos/Cuartoscuro)

Nowadays, it doesn’t come up nearly as much. While there’s been quite a bit of violence in Mexico since then, most of it has not been unleashed on tourists. Meanwhile, in my home country, the United States, mass shootings have become horrifyingly common. “Are you scared, going back there?” is now a question I get from Mexicans.

And the answer, I’m sad to say, is yes. You can avoid known narco-infested communities. Avoiding mentally anguished people with easy access to weapons is another story.

Say what you will about Mexico’s security issues. There are plenty of bad guys with guns, it’s true, but they’re worker bees with an agenda. Average citizens looking to hurt members of the general public are mostly absent.

And yet.

The right questions

The better question, in fact, is a different one: What is safe to do in Mexico, and what is not?

With that second, better question in mind, let’s dive in!

What’s not safe

Most of the items below, if you ask me, should be obvious. Still, there are plenty of people who seem to think they have some kind of magic shield. But remember, my friends: vacation does not protect you from harm.

So beware of the following activities:

Trying to buy illegal drugs

A man smoking drugs
Drugs are the easiest way to put yourself in danger in Mexico. (Grav/Unsplash)

This should be a given, right? First, trying to procure drugs will likely put you into contact with certain kinds of people whose radar you do not want to be on. Trust me.

Then there’s the risk of getting caught. Think the police around here will be happy to let you go? True, it’s possible you could buy them off with a bribe, but why take the risk? I don’t know you personally, but I do know that prison in Mexico ain’t the place for you.

Driving on routes known to be patrolled by narcos

Look, it’s not easy to bring your car here anyway, okay? Unless you’re hopping right over the border, come by plane. Use the country’s excellent bus and taxi system while you get your bearings. Once you’re settled in, you can buy a car if you want to.

The main point is this: your status as a foreigner will not protect you. If you get off with “only” a bribe (which would likely be extra high for you), consider yourself lucky.

Taking part in political protests

Parents of Ayotzinapa 43 kidnapping victims protesting at Mexico's senate
Supporting a cause can open expats up to unintended dangers however, so staying away is strongly advised. It is also illegal under the Mexican constitution. (Galo Cañas/Cuartoscuro)

There are quite a few activist types that come to Mexico. I get it! I’m one of them.

But there’s something you need to remember. Political “meddling” — that’s the actual wording  — by foreigners is prohibited by the Constitution. That includes political protests, so be smart and sit out. There are enough Mexicans to fight for whatever cause you find dear, I promise.

Accepting blame for an accident right away

Car accident
Never admit this was your fault. (Erik Mclean/Unsplash)

Many of us hail from countries where, if something happens, there’s a reasonable expectation of fairness and justice.

Not so in Mexico. In fact, you might notice that legal fees are covered by most vehicle insurance policies here.

When there’s a car accident here, your insurance agency should be the first number you dial. Don’t be surprised if the other party immediately calls various friends and family members to go. Strength — and intimidation — in numbers!

If you accept blame immediately, you are essentially accepting to pay for everything. Legal action is also a possibility, so zip it. Yes, make sure everyone is all right. But do not apologize to anyone; let the insurance adjuster be the one to determine what happened.

Trusting that anyone has your best interest at heart

This sounds cold, I know. And hey, most people are trustworthy. But there will always be people pushing to see how much they can get out of overly-trusting dummies.

So get deals in writing, and do not prepay for any service if you can help it. If materials need to be bought, for example, buy them yourself!

You are not street smart here. You are street-idiotic. That’s not to insult you, but to remind you to accept that in a foreign country you’ll be clueless a lot of the time.

Tips for staying safe

U.S. Embassy CDMX
Keeping a contact for your embassy (like the U.S. Embassy seen here) can be useful in emergency situations. (Wikimedia)

But not all is lost. Knowing that you are in a place where the system is not necessarily on your side, there are some precautions you can take.

Keep your home country embassy’s emergency number on your phone. Your embassy exists, at least in part, to support you. If you get stopped by a uniformed officer, tell them you need to inform your embassy of the situation. Asking for ID is normal; attempting to detain you without reason is not.

Technically, you should also be carrying around your passport and ID card. To be honest, this is not something I do, though I do have clear pictures of both stored on my phone.

But about the number: a friend of mine got out of a scary car accident situation with that call. I personally had bogus claims against me withdrawn when I said I’d need to seek counsel from my embassy. The embassy did not care at all, but the other person didn’t know that. Keep them around! The idea of a foreign embassy getting involved is usually enough of a deterrence if people’s intentions are not 100% pure.

If you’re at a resort or on a packaged tour, don’t stray. Stay with the group. Tourists — especially those who don’t speak Spanish — make for easy prey. Again, most people, like everywhere, are okay. But not speaking the language or understanding the culture makes it easier for the unscrupulous ones to find you.

Mexico isn’t necessarily a scarier place than others. But so many heavenly features can make you forget to keep your guard up. Be safe out there!

Sarah DeVries is a writer and translator based in Xalapa, Veracruz. She can be reached through her website, sarahedevries.substack.com.

Who should we thank for the invention of guacamole?

By
Chris Sands
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Guacamole
Invented by a deity and transformed by colonialism, guacamole's enduring popularity is a testament to its perfection. (Tessa Rampersad)

Let’s not get it twisted: guacamole has always been delicious. It’s also absurdly healthy relative to its pleasing taste, not to mention extraordinarily versatile. It satisfies as a dip, as millions of Super Bowl party revelers know all too well, but it also works as a side dish. Or as a standalone treat. It’s damn near the perfect snack, in other words, although today’s recipes give it a bit more oomph than preferred by its inventors, the ancient Mexica, better known as the Aztecs.  This (literally) sacred food has a long and complex history, and guacamole as we know it today used to be something quite different.

Yes, you heard that right. Guacamole is no Juanito-come-lately. It has been around for centuries, with subtle tweaks to its ingredient list over the years serving as a microcosm for the evolution of Mexican culture and cuisine.

A gift from the gods? You bet

Avocado farm
The majority of Mexico’s avocados come from farms in Michoacán and they were believed to have been domesticated almost 4,000 years ago.. (Graciela López Herrera/Cuartoscuro.com)

For two million years during the Pleistocene epoch, avocado seeds were spread by poop from the now-extinct giant ground sloths of the Lestodon family, accounting for their dispersal in the Americas. Yes, this really happened. The first cultivators, however, were likely the Mokaya, a Mesoamerican precursor culture to the Olmec. Thus, although avocados have been avidly consumed in Mexico for at least 10,000 years, they’ve only been domesticated for about 3,800. 

Prized by early Mesoamericans for the strength they gave and their powers as an aphrodisiac — the shape of the fruit led to its Nahuatl name, ahuacatl, synonymous with testicle — avocados didn’t become the staple ingredient in guacamole until much later and only via divine intervention. 

The Mexica attributed the invention of guacamole to the Feathered Serpent Quetzalcoatl, a Toltec deity adopted as their god of wind and wisdom. According to myth, the god appeared before them in a vision to bestow the blessing. The first versions are thought to have been made sometime between the 14th and 16th centuries, but this cannot be known with any degree of exactitude. For all we know, Qutetzcoatl might have told the Toltecs, too. What is known with certainty is that early versions of the “avocado sauce” — the literal translation of the Nahuatl ahuacamolli — were never made with ingredients we now take for granted, like lime, cilantro and onion. 

Those were later additions associated with Spanish colonization after Hernán Cortés and his allies conquered the Mexica capital of Tenochtitlán in 1521. The Mexica made guacamole with only avocado paste, chilis, salt and sometimes tomatoes. No, we don’t know how they ate it. Was it a dip? Or was it perhaps a spread, smeared on a tortilla as some kind of proto-version of avocado toast? The codices don’t say.

How Spanish colonialism changed guacamole’s flavor profile

Spanish colonial woman with an avocado
Like so much of Mexican life, the Spanish conquest profoundly changed the history of guacamole. (Vincente Alban)

Spain’s 300-year rule of Mexico and its other colonies in Asia and the Americas produced a global trade network that, among other developments, created many new foodstuffs. Spain eagerly imported traditional Mexican specialties like chocolate and avocados, even managing to grow the latter in areas of the mother country like Granada and Malaga. 

Likewise, fruits like limes were introduced to Mexico, to the everlasting benefit of its cuisine and economy: it’s now the world’s biggest exporter. The two types now most commonly grown, the key lime and Persian lime,  were introduced by Spaniards during the 16th century. The addition of lime made guacamole better in two significant ways: first, it gave the dish some flavorful zing, courtesy of its bright acidity. Second, lime is a preservative, helping to delay the browning associated with avocados as it oxidizes. 

Like lime, cilantro is another essential element of contemporary Mexican cuisine. It too was introduced during the 16th century. Europe was the likely source, as the herb grows naturally in the southern parts of that continent and Asia. But wherever it came from, its aromatics and herbal flavor blended well with guacamole. Onion likewise proved a good fit, adding some crunchy texture. 

As Cortés and his men discovered after landing at Veracruz in 1519, Mexico has its own species of onion, called xonacatl in Nahuatl. However, the Mexica apparently never considered it appropriate as a guacamole ingredient. It was added later, by the Spanish. We can also credit the Spanish for changing ahuacamolli to guacamole, which they did because they couldn’t properly pronounce the Nahuatl version. One sympathizes.

The continuing evolution of guacamole

Even to this day, the traditional molcajete remains the preferred means of preparing guacamole. (Shutterstock)

The ingredients may have changed but the tools to properly prepare and serve guacamole haven’t —  at all. The molcajete and tejolote, a mortar made from volcanic rock and its accompanying pestle,  remain the preferred utensils, just as they were for the Mexica. There’s no reason to consider alternatives, either. The molcajete is perfect for efficiently mashing up avocados and other ingredients and thoroughly extracting their flavors. And as any owner of this essential culinary aid can attest, these signature flavors become embedded in the porous rock, carrying over to the next batch.

Avocados have been grown in the United States since the 1830s. But guacamole didn’t become popular in the U.S. until as recently as the 1990s, when it emerged, contemporaneous with NAFTA, as a tableside staple at restaurants and a must-have dip for tortilla chips at Super Bowl parties. 

In recent years, several new ingredients have been used to spice up recipes in the U.S. I refuse to name them here since these are, let’s face it, insults to real guacamole. But the U.S., personified by California horticulturist Rudolph Hass, did pioneer what is now the dominant type of avocado. Eighty percent of the world’s avocados are now grown from the delicious and nutritious Hass variety, with Mexico their top exporter.

But as far as guacamoles go, the Mexica had the right idea. Keep it simple. And whatever they missed, Mexico’s mestizo culinary heritage has righted, with the addition of lime, cilantro and onion.

Chris Sands is the Cabo San Lucas local expert for the USA Today travel website 10 Best, writer of Fodor’s Los Cabos travel guidebook, and a contributor to numerous websites and publications, including Tasting Table, Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, Forbes Travel Guide, Porthole Cruise, Cabo Living and Mexico News Daily. His specialty is travel-related content and lifestyle features focused on food, wine and golf.

Over 300 flights canceled in Cancún and Tulum as Beryl hits Mexico

By
MND Staff
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0
Cancún beaches taped off on Thursday
The arrival of Hurricane Beryl caused hundreds of flights to be canceled in Cancún. (Elizabeth Ruiz/Cuartoscuro)

The arrival of Hurricane Beryl to the Yucatán Peninsula has interrupted airport operations leading to canceled flights in Cancún and Tulum, Quintana Roo.

Tulum airport suspended all incoming and departing air traffic from Thursday afternoon until noon Sunday. Authorities at the Cancún International Airport made a similar decision a short time later, suspending most operations as of 3:30 p.m. on Thursday afternoon. Cozumel’s international airport also suspended flights to Cancún.

Tulum International Airport authorities met with meteorologists and representatives from local, state and federal governments before making the decision to close the airport.

Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama reported that 284 flights had been canceled as of Thursday night while airlines operating elsewhere in the state of Quintana Roo worked to accommodate passengers with flights affected by Hurricane Beryl.

Lezama urged travelers to verify their flight status before heading to the airport. “Airports do not serve as shelters!” she warned.

In total, 348 flights were canceled Thursday through Saturday, Infobae reported early Friday morning. At the time, the airport still had 174 arrivals and 174 departures on the schedule for those days. Cancún airport officials said on the social platform X that Frontier Airlines, WestJet, United Airlines, Volaris, Air Canada, Aeromexico and Southwest Airlines canceled some or all flights during the time period.

Governor Lezama issued a bulletin advising travelers to consult the Aeropuertos del Sureste (ASUR) website for Cancún flight information. ASUR operates nine airports in southeastern Mexico including the Cancún International Airport.

Airlines also issued instructions to travelers with flights affected by Beryl, communicating directly with passengers via social media. Arilines provided affected travelers with contact information in case they needed to adjust their itineraries.

Volaris advised passengers to communicate via WhatsApp at 55 5898 8599 or at the airline’s Facebook page Facebook @viajavolaris. Viva Aerobus passengers can find information at http://bit.ly/46CsWou or at @VivaAerobus on Facebook. Meanwhile, Mexicana asked passengers to keep in touch via X at @MexicanaVuela_.

Travelers were also advised not to go to the airport unless their flights had been confirmed.

Beryl made landfall just north of Tulum on Friday morning as a Category 2 storm with 110 mph winds before weakening to a Category 1 storm. An 11 a.m. update from the U.S. National Hurricane Center said Beryl’s maximum sustained winds had decreased to 85 mph.

Meteorologists expect the storm to emerge in the Gulf of Mexico later Friday. However, heavy rains and intense winds will continue to be a factor on Saturday.

With reports from La Jornada Maya and Infobae

Foreign direct investment in Mexico forecast to increase 8% in 2024

By
MND Staff
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1
A Mexican flag flying in Mexico City's business district
FDI and export revenue are both forecast to increase in 2024 as Mexico continues its rise in the global economic rankings. (Moisés Pablo Nava/Cuartoscuro)

Foreign direct investment in Mexico will increase 8% in 2024, according to a forecast by the Mexican Business Council for Foreign Trade, Investment and Technology (COMCE).

Just over US $36 billion in FDI flowed into Mexico last year, a record high.

Aerial shot of exterior of BMW plant in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, an example of a German company that contributed to Mexico FDI.
Foreign direct investment (FDI) in Mexico reached 59% of 2023’s total in Q1 alone, leading experts to forecast higher FDI figures for 2024. (BMW Group)

COMCE, a Mexico City-based private sector organization, predicted on Thursday that FDI will increase to US $39 billion this year.

“This [projected] flow of capital underscores the confidence … of international investors in the economic potential and stability of Mexico, especially within the framework of [company] relocation,” the council said in a statement.

Mexico — the world’s ninth-largest recipient of FDI in 2023 — is already well on its way to achieving the foreign investment level forecast by COMCE.

In the first quarter of 2024, FDI hit a record high of $20.31 billion, according to preliminary Economy Ministry data. The Q1 result is equivalent to 59% of last year’s total.

Seeking to calm concerns over a proposed judicial reform that will be considered by Congress later this year, President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum said last month that investors in Mexico have “nothing to worry about.”

Export revenue also forecast to rise 

COMCE also predicted that the value of Mexico’s exports will increase to US $610 billion in 2024. That would be an increase of almost 3% compared to the $593 billion in export revenue Mexico earned last year.

“This [projected] significant increase in exports is due to the dynamism of the manufacturing sector, mainly the automotive and auto parts industry,” COMCE said.

Exports at the Manzanillo port
Mexico’s exports to the U.S. were worth US $206.79 billion in the first five months of the year. (Lloyds)

Mexico is already the top exporter to the United States, and the world’s ninth biggest exporter overall.

In the first five months of the year, Mexico’s exports were worth $250.51 billion, according to national statistics agency INEGI. Over 80% of that revenue came from exports to the United States. U.S. data published this week showed that Mexico shipped products worth $206.79 billion to the U.S. in the first five months of the year, a record for the period.

In 2023, Mexico dethroned China as the top exporter to the United States. Mexico has benefited from a “decoupling” of the world’s two largest economies amid the ongoing China-United States trade war, as well as the relocation of foreign companies to Mexico as part of the nearshoring trend.

COMCE executive vice president Sergio Contreras said Thursday that “we’re witnessing a historic moment for Mexico in the realm of trade and international investment thanks to nearshoring.”

Contreras added that Mexico’s rise in global economic rankings is “a clear sign of the importance of the country as an exporting power and destination for FDI.”

Foreign direct investment in Mexico is expected to continue increasing in the coming years as companies act on investment announcements they have already made.

Beyond the rise in global FDI and export rankings, another sign of the growing importance of Mexico in the global economy is that in 2023, it became the world’s 12th largest economy, according to the International Monetary Fund.

With reports from El Economista and La Jornada 

Last month was Mexico’s rainiest June since 1941

By
MND Staff
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1
Last month, Mexico saw 49% more rainfall than the average for June.
Last month, Mexico saw 49% more rainfall than the average for June. (Margarito Pérez Retana/Cuartoscuro)

Mexico had its rainiest June in more than 80 years after seeing six months of below-average rainfall, and the second-driest May ever recorded. 

This week, the National Water Commission (Conagua) reported that rainfall in June had replenished many of the country’s major reservoirs, mitigating the worst of the drought conditions in northern Mexico.

A person holds an umbrella in the rain
Rainfall caused by Tropical Storm Alberto helped reduce the rain deficit for the year to 3.3%. (Mario Jasso/Cuartoscuro)

The 148.7 mm of rain registered across the country last month is 49% more than the average for June. Conagua said it was the most rainfall recorded in June since 1941.

Conagua also reported that the 664 cubic millimeters of rain dumped on northern Mexico by Tropical Storm Alberto from June 19-23 helped reduce the rain deficit for the year to 3.3%, with regard to the historical yearly average.

The reservoirs in Nuevo León swelled with water such that the floodgates were opened at the La Boca dam allowing the water to flow into the El Cuchillo dam.

The heavy precipitation from Alberto caused severe flooding in Nuevo León and Tamaulipas, as well as in Yucatán and Quintana Roo when it crossed over the peninsula. Tropical Storm Chris brought heavy rains to Veracruz, Puebla and Hidalgo after coming ashore on June 30.

June was particularly gloomy in Mexico City, however, the city did not benefit from the record rainfall. The three main reservoirs that supply drinking water to the capital were still below 30% capacity heading into the final week of June, according to Conagua.

The arrival of Hurricane Beryl in the Yucatán Peninsula and its expected course toward Tamaulipas will ensure that July continues the rainy trend set in June. 

Beryl made landfall just south of the resort city of Tulum as a Category 2 hurricane on Friday morning, but quickly weakened to a Category 1 storm. Forecasters expect Beryl to reenter the southwestern Gulf of Mexico Friday night and then move northwestward toward Tamaulipas and southern Texas by the end of the weekend.

Conagua projects that Tamaulipas will receive 300 to 250 mm of rain from the hurricane. The passage of Beryl will also dump 200-250 mm of rain on the states of Chiapas, Yucatán and Quintana Roo; the Gulf coast states of Campeche, Veracruz, Nuevo León will receive 100-150 mm of rain; and San Luis Potosí and Oaxaca should anticipate 100-150 mm as well.

With reports from El Financiero

Hurricane Beryl makes landfall as a Category 2 storm in Tulum

By
MND Staff
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1
Hurricane Beryl's trajectory on Friday morning
Hurricane Beryl is currently moving inland over the Yucatán Peninsula and is expected to pass north of Mérida this afternoon. (Conagua Clima/X)

Hurricane Beryl made landfall as a Category 2 storm near Tulum, Quintana Roo, early Friday, Mexican authorities said.

No loss of life or hurricane-related injuries had been reported in Mexico by 10 a.m. Mexico City time.

Hurricane Beryl has been downgraded to a Category 1 storm since making landfall, but poses a high risk of storm surge in northeast Yucatán.
Hurricane Beryl has been downgraded to a Category 1 storm since making landfall but poses a high risk of storm surge in northeast Yucatán. (Mara Lezama/X)

The National Meteorological Service (SMN) said that Hurricane Beryl came ashore at 5:05 a.m. north of Tulum. The hurricane had maximum sustained winds of 175 km/h and gusts of up to 220 km/h, the SMN said.

At 9 a.m. Mexico City time, the United States National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported that Beryl was 160 kilometers east-southeast of Progreso, Yucatán, and weakening as it moved further inland over the northeastern Yucatán Peninsula.

However, the NHC warned that dangerous hurricane-force winds, a storm surge and “damaging waves” were “expected over portions of this area for a few more hours.”

Beryl’s maximum sustained winds at 9 a.m. were 140 km/h, making it a Category 1 hurricane. It is moving northwestward at approximately 26 km/hr, the NHC said.

The hurricane is projected to pass north of Mérida later on Friday, with the towns of Motul and Progreso on or near the forecast path. A red “maximum hazard” alert was activated for the entire state of Yucatán.

On Friday night, Beryl is forecast to enter the Gulf of Mexico, where it is expected to regain strength.

“Beryl is expected to emerge over the southwestern Gulf of Mexico tonight and then move northwestward toward northeastern Mexico and southern Texas by the end of the weekend,” the NHC said.

Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama said on X at 9:15 a.m. that no loss or life or major damage had been reported in the Caribbean coast state.

Social media users and journalists shared videos on the social platform X as the storm approached the Carribbean coast. (X)

At President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s morning press conference, National Civil Protection Chief Laura Velázquez also said that no deaths or injuries had been reported. However, she stressed that the information was “preliminary.”

Lezama said that authorities were commencing “the assistance phase” and preparing “to go out to help the people who need help.”

More than 8,000 soldiers, Air Force members and National Guard personnel were deployed to respond to the hurricane.

Lezama said that winds brought by Beryl had downed trees, utility poles and “some structures.”

Some flooding has also been reported.

Tulum and Felipe Carillo Puerto were among the worst affected municipalities in Quintana Roo. Blackouts have been reported in parts of the state, including in Tulum and on the islands of Cozumel and Isla Mujeres.

More than 2,000 Quintana Roo residents went to temporary shelters well before Beryl made landfall.

The SMN said that Beryl would cause “torrential” rainfall of 150-250 mm in the states of Quintana Roo, Yucatán and Campeche, and “intense” rainfall of 75-150 mm in Chiapas and Tabasco. It also warned of the risk of lightning, strong winds and high seas.

“Due to the risk of landslides, flooding and the rising of rivers in Chiapas and Tabasco, the public is advised to take precautions,” the SMN said.

Beryl is the second named storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, and became the first Category 5 storm ever to form in the Atlantic Ocean in the month of June.

It made landfall Monday on Carriacou, a small island that is part of the country of Grenada. The hurricane has claimed at least seven lives in Venezuela and Caribbean nations.

Beryl is the third named Atlantic storm to affect Mexico this hurricane season.

Tropical Storm Alberto brought torrential rains across large swaths of the Yucatán Peninsula and northeastern Mexico in June, while Tropical Storm Chris made landfall in the municipality of Vega de Alatorre, Veracruz, earlier this week.

With reports from N+, Reforma and El Universal 

Police deployed to protect Poseidon statue that ‘angered’ a Maya god in Yucatán

By
MND Staff
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1
(César Cepeda/X)

An offbeat and humorous byproduct of Hurricane Beryl’s approach toward the Yucatán Peninsula involves a new statue of Poseidon in the surf just off the coastal town of Progreso — and a viral “plea” that prompted the police to start guarding it.

In an event posting on Facebook, user Angel Toledo wrote that the statue’s installation in late May to promote tourism had angered the Maya god Chaac. A follow-up post on TikTok that went viral explained that Chaac’s ire was why the area has been pounded by historically heavy rains from tropical storms Alberto and Chris and is now threatened by the onrushing Beryl.

Organizers of the event stated that the statue of Poseidon — the god of ancient Greek mythology who is “king of the seas” — must go. They even set a removal date of July 15.

This would apparently appease Chaac, the Maya god of rain who strikes the cloud with his lightning ax to produce thunder and rainstorms.

The listing and the hundreds of reactions, memes and follow-ups on social media picked up steam, with many going viral.

And the calls — tongue-in-cheek or not — to tear down the striking 3-meter tall statue grew even louder during the Beryl storm watch.

A Facebook screenshot showing a photo of the Poseidon statue in Progreso, Yucatán, and the event title "Ir a destruir la estatua de Poseidón."
A Facebook event titled “Go destroy the statue of Poseidon” alarmed authorities in Progreso, Yucatán, where the statue is located. (Facebook)

Then, starting on Wednesday, members of the Ecological Police of Progreso began guarding strategic points near the Poseidon statue in order to make sure no mishaps occurred.

A day earlier, a picture posted on the social media network X showed the statue of Poseidon seemingly split in half at the torso, lying in the sand. That gave rise to the theory that people hoping to thwart the arrival of Beryl had already torn down the statue — causing even more of a stir.

Much of this social media activity seemed to be occurring in good humor, but it did prompt widespread coverage from Mexican newspapers and TV stations.

The organizers of the Facebook event have since confirmed that they meant everything as a joke. Though 6,600 people responded that they would attend and 30,200 clicked on “interested,” the event listing is now marked as canceled, with an updated remark:

“Message to the community: Thank you for your support really it was fun to see that so many people took it as a good joke and we were able to reach 35,000 people in just a few hours I did not expect it and be on 3 local news shows but I have received many hateful comments and people threatening and I don’t want it to get out of control tqm to all of you who had fun.”

TQM is Mexican text-speak for te quiero mucho, which in this case expresses affection for everyone who got a good laugh out of the situation.

The statue is located about five meters into the sea in front of the Malecón Internacional de Progreso, a popular beach destination about a 45-minute drive from Yucatán state capital of Mérida.

“Meet the new icon of Progreso!” Turismo Yucatán posted on X last month. “Have you taken a photo with him yet?”

Made of fiberglass, the statue was an initiative of the Progreso City Council to attract tourism. However, from the very start, it generated controversy, with some people expressing anger that it did not represent Maya culture.

With reports from Por Esto, Infobae, La Jornada Maya and The Yucatan Times

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