The Best of Mexicanist Newsletter, Issue 14/2023
Discover Mexico's events of resilience and transformation. From battling illicit real estate to carnival extravaganzas, our newsletter navigates the diverse landscapes of culture, economy, and society. Subscribe for a weekly dose of the Best of Mexicanist.
Welcome to the Best of Mexicanist newsletter! Dive into the heart of Mexico with our curated stories. Cancun fights illicit real estate, Mazatlan's rebellious tourists make waves, Puerto Vallarta faces crocodile chaos, and Tulum grapples with a daughter's deadly deception.
Plus, discover the spicy world of Mexican cybersecurity, the return of whales in Los Cabos, and the economic surge in Latin America's services. From cultural celebrations to economic collaborations, explore the dynamics of Mexico. Subscribe now for a taste of the extraordinary.
Cancun's Battle Against Illicit Real Estate Ventures
Cancun confronts illicit real estate with its first legal strike against illegal land sales. The municipality targets developers, urging caution among buyers. Simultaneously, billboards along Luis Donaldo Colosio Boulevard face removal, promising a renewed, uncluttered cityscape.
The Aquatic Escapades of Mazatlan's Rebellious Tourist
Mazatlan's coastal chronicles unfold with aquatic antics, cruise dreams, environmental battles, neglected parks, art extravaganzas, tourism ambitions, and a rising tide of motorcycle theft. In this seaside saga, the city navigates the waves of change with resilience.
Puerto Vallarta's Fisherman Faces the Jaws of Fate
Crocodile chaos in Puerto Vallarta as a fisherman loses an arm. But fear not, it's not all jaws and claws. The city invites you to capture its essence in the 2023 Photo Fiesta, dive into the Bay's waves, and savor the sips at the Brewmasters Beer Festival.
Blue Palmas Eviction Unveils Playa's Property Peculiarities
Playa del Carmen's “Blue Palmas” condos face a legal storm as an eviction drama unfolds. Nightclubs brace for winter, with Coco Bongo reporting a promising 30% reservation rate for New Year's. The Mexican Navy surprises by early removal of the anti-sargassum barrier.
The Spicy World of Cybersecurity in Mexican Households
Mexican families are losing sleep over online harassment, with 78% concerned. Setting internet rules is a challenge for 84%, up 41% from 2022. Younger kids access inappropriate content, while teens face social media risks. Parental controls are underused, and better communication is needed.
Whale Watchers' Delight as Oceans' Gentle Giants Return
Los Cabos evolves with a 3% toll hike for infrastructure, legal ripples in municipal governance, Calafia Airlines reconnecting skies, and the majestic return of whales. Fireside heroes gather for an International Congress, local transport renews, and Costa Azul offers a beach haven.
When Beach Bliss Meets a Daughter's Deadly Deception
Tulum, once an idyllic haven, reels from a daughter's alleged murder of her mother. The shocking twist unfolded as she reported the missing person, only to be arrested amid aggression towards police. This grim episode reflects a broader trend, with Quintana Roo witnessing 1,203 homicides in 2023.
How Latin America's Services Stole the Spotlight from Goods
Latin America and the Caribbean witness a trade revolution: goods dip 2%, but services surge 12% in 2023. The REDLAS conference explores the transformative power of modern services, driving economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development in the region.
UK and Mexico Extend Zero Tariffs to Boost Bilateral Trade
The UK and Mexico extend their commitment to zero tariffs, ensuring trade stability until a free trade agreement is finalized in 2024. This move enhances economic ties and provides certainty for UK businesses, particularly benefiting automakers and food manufacturers.
Acapulco Residents Protest with a Pile at the Mayor's Doorstep
Acapulco rises from Otis' wreckage, resilient and united. Diamante Zone reawakens, aided by Guerrero's support. Residents, though battered, stand strong amidst governmental lapses. CMIC spearheads reconstruction, while looting exposes shadows.
Iberdrola Charges Ahead in the Mexican Energy Market
The Energy Regulatory Commission grants Iberdrola authorization to migrate five generation plants to Mexico's wholesale electricity market, a win for renewable energy and sustainability efforts in the country.
M87* Black Hole Reveals its Magnetic Secrets
EHT's global collaboration unveils magnetic fields and particle dynamics around M87* black hole using circular polarization. This breakthrough sheds light on matter consumption and jet formation, showcasing the consortium's pivotal role in unraveling cosmic mysteries.
Auteco's Electric Fleet Rolls in with $102.5 Million Jolt
Auteco, the Colombian mobility maverick, zooms into Mexico with a $102.5 million charge. Electric units, styles, and a green parade – they're not just selling cars; they're sparking a revolution on Mexico's roads.
How Mexico Became the Hottest Spot for Asian Business
Asian companies are flocking to Mexico, with 63% of nearshoring projects from China, South Korea, and Taiwan. Attractions include supply chain optimization, T-MEC benefits, and lower labor costs. This transformative trend is projected to bring 227 new companies annually from 2023 to 2025.
Mazatlán Carnival 2024, the Ultimate Fiesta Showdown
Mazatlán's 2024 Carnival is a whirlwind of glitter and grandeur. From dazzling parades to literary feasts, it's a three-month fiesta. Ten queens, four kings, and a sea of confetti await. Get ready to samba in the streets! 🎭🎉
The Aztec Society and DIY Guide to Social Climbing
In 1325, the Aztecs settled on an islet, paying tribute to Azcapotzalco. Prophecies, a temple, and a quest for a ruler led to a royal twist in the 1370s, transforming the Aztecs from reed-dwellers to a society of social hierarchies and nobles, all while holding onto ancient calpullis structures.
Bridging Mexico's Gender Gap in the Workplace
Mexico's gender gap in the labor force persists, impacting the economy and social welfare. Despite progress, women face disparities in salaries, job types, and pensions. Claudia Goldin's Nobel Prize sheds light, urging comprehensive efforts for true gender equality.
How Middle-Income Areas Redefine the Street Food Scene
Findings from Arizona State's Chavez reveal Mexico City's street food hub is in middle-income areas, challenging norms. Tacos mingle with prosperity, as research uncovers a culinary odyssey with health implications. A global taste-test awaits in Phoenix and Navajo.
The Subtle Art of Lulling on International Musicians' Day
Unlocking the quirky symphony of emotions, Augusto César Alarcón Jiménez, a UNAM maestro, reveals the magical mission of musicians – inducing relaxation. As International Musicians' Day approaches on Nov 22, let's celebrate the universal language that transcends cultural boundaries.
Democracy's Polarization, Populism, and Post-Truth
Democracy faces unprecedented threats globally, warns Daniel Zovatto. Polarization, populism, and post-truth dynamics challenge even consolidated democracies. Latin America, in a chiaroscuro scenario, requires innovation and commitment to navigate this critical crossroads.
How 10 Pesos Can Unlock a Financial Fantasy in Mexico
Mexico's INE black market is fueling a surge in identity theft, with fake IDs available for a mere 10 to 1,500 pesos. Fintechs, banks, and unsuspecting citizens bear the brunt, raising questions about the battle against identity theft in Mexico's financial landscape.
Thanks for savoring the flavors of Mexico with us. Stay tuned for more captivating stories—from vibrant fiestas to groundbreaking advancements. Subscribe for your weekly dose of the Best of Mexicanist!