The Best of Mexicanist Newsletter, Issue 11/2023

Welcome to the Best of Mexicanist Newsletter. The Yucatán Peninsula is abuzz with anticipation as it prepares for a rare celestial event – an annular solar eclipse. This event is just one of the many diverse and intriguing topics we explore in this edition of the newsletter.

We have a wide array of stories that cover everything from local celebrations like Cancun's Oktoberfest, to the revival of the Punta Colonet port project in Baja California. To the impact of Chinese car brands on Mexico's automotive market, and much more.

We hope you find this issue as intriguing and informative as we did while curating it. Thank you for being part of the Mexicanist community.

Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula Prepares for Eclipsepalooza

Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula gears up for a rare annular solar eclipse, prompting a fusion of science, culture, and measures to combat misinformation. Daniela Tarhuni, a science communicator, leads efforts to provide unique eclipse experiences and train teachers to dispel myths.

Cancun's Oktoberfest 2023 Brews Up Fun for a Cause

Cancun's Oktoberfest 2023 supports local fire heroes. MIP Cancun welcomes global players. Cancun Travel Mart promises networking in paradise. Chess masters converge in Cancun. Health inspections shake up medical facilities. Free Wi-Fi by the sea. Mayan Train to connect Palenque to Cancun.

Latin America's Uphill Climb to Productivity and Innovation

Latin America's productivity paradox: Stuck in a time warp, this region generates jobs but struggles with low productivity and GDP growth. Can it break the cycle and embrace innovation?

How Grupo Yazaki Shifted Gears for Its Workers

Grupo Yazaki, a major auto components firm in Mexico, has taken proactive measures to safeguard workers' rights, including freedom of association and collective bargaining. Their Neutrality Charter and collaboration with labor authorities underline their commitment.

Earthquake Rattles Puerto Vallarta After Hurricane Lidia

Hurricane Lidia hit Puerto Vallarta, leaving two dead, while a massive rockslide blocks Federal Highway 200. The city's airport sees record growth, and it's named one of the world's best small cities. An earthquake rattles the city, and a Day of the Dead festival promises a vibrant October.

The Revival of the Punta Colonet Port Project in Baja California

Baja California rekindles the $25 billion Punta Colonet port project after 2 decades. This colossal initiative includes six state-of-the-art terminals and a 310 km rail network, poised to transform trade and invigorate the region's diverse export sector.

Former Sedesol Coordinator Arrested in Corruption Scandal

A former Mexican official, Simón Pedro de León Mojarro, was arrested for his involvement in the “Master Swindle” case. Accused of diverting millions, he's facing multiple arrest warrants, shedding light on corruption in high places.

High-Flying Excitement Returns to Acapulco with Air Show

Acapulco is all set to dazzle with the return of the Air Show 2023. The Festival del Pescado a la Talla promises a culinary spectacle, cultural showcases, and music. The city grapples with heavy rains causing cemetery chaos, a spike in disappearances, and a playful crocodile riding stormy waves.

How Chinese Car Brands Transform Mexico's Auto Market

Chinese car brands are taking over Mexico's automotive market, supplying 26% of imports. Their appeal to Mexican consumers and potential challenges are transforming the industry landscape. Adaptation and competition are key as they establish a lasting presence.

Bernardo Arévalo and the Promise of Change in Guatemala

Guatemala's “new democratic spring” is on the horizon as Bernardo Arévalo prepares to take office in January 2024. Despite powerful opposition, international support and a resounding electoral victory signal hope for change in a nation plagued by corruption and turmoil.

Mazatlan's Hurricane Hiccups Can't Dampen the Beach Buzz

Mazatlan bounces back after Hurricane Lidia, allowing beachgoers back in while a solar eclipse beckons from the Lighthouse. Watch out for a spooky Halloween, illegal animal trade, a big fishing tournament, and a local boxer's shot at a championship.

Real Estate Advertisements Market Under Scrutiny

Cofece, Mexico's economic watchdog, investigates the real estate ad market for possible unfair practices. Big impact on the national economy. Offenders could face hefty fines and market shake-ups.

Mayan Train Delayed, but Still on Track for Tulum Adventure

Exciting times in Tulum! A 19m observation tower, major road upgrades, and a revamped Mayan Train are on the horizon. Plus, Tulum secures land for affordable housing and celebrates local, sustainable cuisine.

Are Social Networks Really the Place to Find Love?

In the digital age, virtual love on social networks may seem appealing, but it often leads to disappointment, depression, and real-world dangers. A researcher warns of reduced self-control and anxiety, emphasizing the need for limits and regulations to protect users.

The Never-Ending Solar Eclipse Enchantment

Eclipses, from ancient Ugarit to modern times, unite humanity awed by celestial mysteries. These cosmic phenomena, etched in history, continue to captivate us, reminding us of our unending wonder.

What is Nobel Prize-Winning Attosecond Photography?

Nobel's laureates Pierre Agostini, Ferenc Krausz, and Anne L'Huillier have unlocked the mind-boggling world of attoseconds, capturing lightning-fast electron movements with pulses of light lasting just a trillionth of a second.

Quintana Roo's Unique Year-End Offerings

Quintana Roo celebrates its 49th anniversary as a tourism powerhouse. Known for Cancun, Riviera Maya, and more, it offers a year-end extravaganza, including a solar eclipse, a yoga retreat, and the world-famous Riviera Maya Jazz Festival, reaffirming its status as a premier tourist destination.

Blue Whales' Year-Round Paradise in the Gulf of California

Blue whales, Earth's largest creatures, roam the world's oceans, including the Gulf of California. These mammalian marvels share surprising similarities with humans and showcase incredible adaptations for life in the sea.

What Chickens Taught Edison About Solar Eclipses

Solar eclipses disrupt animal behavior. Edison's observation in 1878 hints at uncharted territory. Ron Fernandez champions “citizen science” to decode these mysteries during upcoming eclipses.

Samsung Takes a Stand Against the Gray Market in Mexico

Samsung Mexico is cracking down on gray market cell phones, blocking devices without official certification and warranties. The move follows ZTE and Motorola, aiming to protect users and ensure compliance with local regulations in the tech industry's growing trend.

Playa del Carmen Unleashes Creativity Under the Bridge

Playa del Carmen is to be transformed into a global urban art gallery, under the 4.5 km bridge, with the help of local and Colombian artists. The city is also making headlines for its sustainable tourism initiatives. However, security concerns persist, as an attack on the highway raises alarms.

Eclipse Eyecare: How Not to Get Blinded by the Light

The expert warns against the deceptive allure of solar eclipses, emphasizing the risks of eye damage from direct sun gazing. To enjoy safely, use filters or indirect methods, ensuring that the beauty of the cosmos doesn't compromise your vision.

As we bid adieu to this edition of the Best of Mexicanist Newsletter, we hope you've enjoyed Mexico's rich culture, innovation, and wonder. Stay tuned for our next issue, where we'll continue to bring you the best stories from this vibrant land. Thank you for being part of our community, and until next time, stay curious and keep exploring the magic of Mexico.