Saturday, July 12, 2025

Tulum’s Sea of Brown: When Nature Overwhelms Paradise

 馃寠 Tulum’s Sea of Brown: When Nature Overwhelms Paradise

By Tina Winterlik – aka Zipolita
Adventurez in Mexico Blog – July 2025


I recently came across a video showing the shores of Tulum—what once was a dreamy turquoise coastline—now murky brown and blanketed in what looked like sea sludge. The caption read: "Parece un mar de lodo. Esta situaci贸n ya rebas贸 a todos, as铆 Tulum hoy." Translation: "It looks like a sea of mud. This situation has gotten out of hand for everyone—this is Tulum today."
And it truly has.

Having lived in and loved Mexico for years, especially during my time in Bucer铆as, I’ve seen firsthand the beauty and fragility of its coastline. But I’ve also seen what happens when natural imbalances, climate shifts, and human neglect meet the sea. Back then, I was pregnant and fled the coast because of a severe red tide—afraid the toxins in the air and water might harm my baby. So watching what’s happening now in Tulum hits close to home.


馃挬 What’s Really Going On?

The brown waters are not mud—but massive amounts of sargassum, a floating brown seaweed exploding across the Atlantic and washing ashore in unprecedented amounts. Experts say this is the worst year ever, with satellite images estimating over 37.5 million metric tons floating in open waters.

The warm, nutrient-rich waters—fueled by pollution and ocean currents—are turning Mexico’s paradise into a sticky, smelly, brown mess.


馃彇️ Tulum, Overwhelmed

Tulum’s open coastline has no natural barriers, so when sargassum arrives, it hits hard. Local workers are cleaning hundreds of tons by hand, day after day. The smell? Rotten eggs—caused by decomposing seaweed that releases hydrogen sulfide gas. It’s not just a nuisance—it can irritate eyes, lungs, and make breathing difficult.


馃毀 Canc煤n Holds the Line (Mostly)

Further north, Canc煤n is holding its own—for now.
Thanks to 7.5 km of floating booms and a coordinated cleanup effort involving the Mexican Navy, beaches like Playa Langosta, Playa del Ni帽o, and Isla Mujeres remain mostly clear. But it's a constant battle. Crews remove sargassum daily, and state officials are racing to find sustainable ways to repurpose it into fertilizer or even building materials.


馃寑 A Bigger Picture

This isn’t just about beach vacations being spoiled. It’s a climate and environmental emergency.

  • Ocean warming
  • Agricultural runoff
  • Deforestation
  • Poor urban planning
    All contribute to these surges. And if we don’t act—not just in Mexico, but globally—our coastal ecosystems may not recover.

馃尡 What Can We Do?

  1. Support local cleanup efforts – Many eco-projects need volunteers or donations.
  2. Choose eco-conscious accommodations that are involved in cleanup or prevention.
  3. Stay informed – Use apps or sites like Sargassum Monitoring to check conditions before you travel.
  4. Speak up – Environmental policies matter. This is not just a local issue.

馃挰 Final Thoughts

Tulum is still beautiful. So are Canc煤n, Puerto Morelos, Isla Holbox, and all of Mexico’s stunning shores. But we can’t take them for granted. This brown seaweed isn’t just ugly—it’s a signal. A warning from nature that balance has tipped.

Let’s listen. Let’s act. Let’s protect the places we love before they’re gone.

With love and sea-salted hope,
Tina Winterlik – Zipolita
✌️馃尶馃寠馃挍


If you've experienced this or have tips on sargassum-friendly spots, please share in the comments below or on my Facebook @Zipolita.


Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Operaci贸n Wetback”: La Historia Que No Nos Ense帽an

馃嚥馃嚱 “Operaci贸n Wetback”: La Historia Que No Nos Ense帽an

Publicado por Tina Winterlik aka Zipolita – Adventurez In Mexico

Normalmente no publico temas pol铆ticos en este blog. Este espacio celebra la vida, la cultura y la belleza de M茅xico.

Pero hoy necesito romper esa regla, porque demasiadas personas no conocen esta historia. Y es muy importante.


馃挜 ¿Qu茅 Fue la “Operaci贸n Wetback”?

En el a帽o 1954, el gobierno de los Estados Unidos lanz贸 una campa帽a masiva de deportaci贸n llamada “Operaci贸n Wetback” — s铆, usaron esa palabra ofensiva como nombre oficial del programa.

Bajo la presidencia de Dwight D. Eisenhower, las autoridades estadounidenses arrestaron y deportaron a m谩s de un mill贸n de mexicanos, incluyendo a residentes legales e incluso ciudadanos estadounidenses de origen mexicano.

Las personas fueron detenidas sin juicio, sacadas de sus hogares, escuelas y trabajos.
Algunas fueron abandonadas en el desierto sin agua ni comida.
Familias fueron separadas.
Algunas personas murieron.

Todo esto, en nombre del “orden” y la “protecci贸n de empleos”.


馃馃徑‍馃尵 Todo Comenz贸 Durante la Segunda Guerra Mundial

Durante la Segunda Guerra Mundial, Estados Unidos necesitaba mano de obra. En 1942 se cre贸 el Programa Bracero, que permiti贸 la entrada legal de trabajadores mexicanos para empleos agr铆colas mientras los hombres estadounidenses estaban en combate.

M谩s de 4 millones de braceros llegaron legalmente — pero la demanda era tan alta que muchos empleadores tambi茅n aceptaban trabajadores sin papeles.

Despu茅s de la guerra, el ambiente pol铆tico cambi贸.

Entraron el miedo, el racismo y la presi贸n social.

De repente, los mismos trabajadores que fueron bienvenidos eran vistos como un “problema”.

Y as铆 naci贸 la Operaci贸n Wetback en 1954.


馃槩 Un Legado de Dolor y Silencio

Muchas personas no conocen esta historia.
No se ense帽a en las escuelas.
Y cuando se menciona, muchas veces se suaviza o se minimiza.

Pero el trauma sigue vivo en muchas familias — y en las pol铆ticas actuales que contin煤an esa l贸gica.

No es historia antigua.
Es el mismo sistema que hoy crea muros fronterizos, redadas de inmigraci贸n y separaci贸n de familias.


馃槵 Trump La Elogi贸

En 2015, Donald Trump elogi贸 p煤blicamente la Operaci贸n Wetback en televisi贸n, diciendo:

“Los sacaron, y funcion贸.”

Trump naci贸 en 1946 y creci贸 en un vecindario blanco y privilegiado en Nueva York, donde estas pol铆ticas se ve铆an como “normales”.

脡l no invent贸 el sistema.
Pero lo hered贸.
Y trat贸 de revivirlo.


馃尩 ¿Por Qu茅 Comparto Esto?

Porque amo a M茅xico.
Porque he vivido rodeada de personas trabajadoras, amables y llenas de vida.
Porque creo que la verdad importa, y la historia debe ser contada.

Y porque los algoritmos y los medios muchas veces ocultan o borran estas verdades inc贸modas.


馃檹 Recordemos, Juntos

Si nunca hab铆as o铆do hablar de la Operaci贸n Wetback — est谩 bien.
Muchos no lo han hecho.
Pero ahora ya lo sabes.

No lo enterremos de nuevo.
Hablemos de ello.
Honremos a las vidas afectadas.
Y construyamos algo m谩s justo, m谩s compasivo.


馃摎 Recursos Para Aprender M谩s:

馃寧 Con amor, respeto y la esperanza de que la verdad nos haga libres,
—Tina Winterlik aka Zipolita

Operation Wetback”: The History They Don’t Teach Us

馃嚥馃嚱 “Operation Wetback”: The History They Don’t Teach Us

Posted by Tina Winterlik aka Zipolita – Adventurez In Mexico

I don’t usually post political topics here on this blog — this space is about celebrating life, culture, beauty, and connection in Mexico.

But today I feel like I must break that rule — because too many people don’t know this story. And it matters deeply.


馃挜 What Was “Operation Wetback”?

In 1954, the U.S. government launched a massive deportation campaign called Operation Wetback — yes, they used that slur as the actual name of the program.

Under President Dwight D. Eisenhower, U.S. authorities rounded up and deported over 1 million Mexicans — many of them legal residents, and even U.S. citizens.

People were taken from their homes, schools, and workplaces with no due process.
Some were dumped in the desert without food or water.
Families were ripped apart.
Deaths occurred.

All in the name of “order” and “jobs.”


馃馃徑‍馃尵 It Started During WWII

During World War II, the U.S. needed labor. So they launched the Bracero Program in 1942, allowing Mexican workers to legally enter and fill agricultural jobs while American men fought overseas.

Over 4 million came through official channels — but U.S. farms still wanted more cheap labor, and undocumented migration increased, often at the invitation of employers.

But after the war, everything changed.

Fear. Racism. Political pressure.

Suddenly, the very workers they welcomed were called a "problem."

And so, in 1954, Operation Wetback was born.


馃槩 A Legacy of Pain and Silence

Most people don’t know this history.
It’s barely taught in schools.
And when it is remembered, it’s often sanitized.

But the trauma still lives in families — and in the policies that came after.

It’s not ancient history.
It’s the same system that created today’s border walls, ICE raids, and family separations.


馃槵 Trump Praised It

In 2015, Donald Trump praised Operation Wetback on national TV — saying:

“They moved them out, and it worked.”

He was born in 1946, raised in Queens, New York — in a wealthy, segregated neighborhood where policies like this were seen as “normal.”

He didn’t invent the system.
But he inherited it.
And tried to bring it back.


馃尩 Why I’m Sharing This

Because I love Mexico.
Because I’ve lived among kind, hardworking, beautiful people here.
Because I believe truth matters, and history must be faced.

And because algorithms and sanitized media make it too easy to forget or never learn these uncomfortable truths.


馃檹 Let’s Remember, Together

If you’ve never heard of Operation Wetback — it’s okay.
Many haven’t.
But now you know.

Let’s not bury it again.
Let’s talk about it.
Let’s honour the lives it affected.
Let’s build something more just, more compassionate.


馃摎 Resources to Learn More:

馃寧 With love, respect, and the hope that truth will set us free,
—Tina Winterlik aka Zipolita

Thursday, June 19, 2025

Privacy is Dignity: Tiny Homes Can Be Beautiful Urban Suburbia

 馃尶 Privacy is Dignity: Tiny Homes Can Be Beautiful Urban Suburbia

By Tina Winterlik aka Zipolita

While I applaud efforts to help people who are unsheltered, we must be honest about what real solutions look like. Shared bathrooms and institutional layouts are not homes. They’re temporary shelters disguised as permanent housing.

Let’s imagine something better. Because we deserve better.


馃彉️ Tiny Home Villages: A Real Vision

Imagine a peaceful, green neighborhood of tiny homes, each with:

✅ A private washroom
✅ A secure door
✅ A quiet space for healing
✅ A small kitchen or kitchenette
✅ A garden in front, art on the walls, dignity in the design

These aren’t shacks or dorms. These are beautiful, thoughtful micro-homes—just scaled down. Designed with love, pride, and privacy in mind.

We call this “Urban Suburbia”—a new way to imagine the city. It's affordable. It's eco-friendly. And it's possible.


馃寜 Remember Granville Island?

In a recent blogpost, I dreamed out loud: what if Granville Island had tiny homes on barges or along underused corners? It would mix art, culture, nature, and housing—a vision of a truly inclusive city.

People want to live near water, light, art, and community. Tiny homes can deliver that without the $500,000 price tag of a condo.


馃挵 Let’s Talk Cost

Right now in BC:

  • Condos are $300,000 to $700,000+
  • Modular shelters (without bathrooms!) still cost $100,000–$150,000
  • For the same amount, we could build actual homes—with full amenities

Why are we spending millions on stopgaps when we could be investing in lasting housing?


馃 Healing Requires Peace

You can’t rebuild your life without privacy.
You can’t recover from trauma without a space that’s yours.
You can’t feel safe if you're forced to share a bathroom with strangers.

We must shift from “just get them off the street” to “build homes where people can thrive.”


馃尡 Design It With Heart

Yes, let’s include:

馃帹 A community art room
馃嵅 A shared kitchen for optional meals
馃 Garden spaces and native plants
馃幁 Events, support, laughter—but only if people want it

Give people the choice to engage, not the obligation.


馃挏 This is the Vision We Need

What’s being built in Duncan is well-intentioned—but let’s be real: it’s not the final answer. People need real homes, not just shelters dressed up with buzzwords.

Let’s build Urban Suburbia—tiny homes with big dignity.
Let’s stop settling for “less bad” and aim for “truly good.”

If we can dream it, we can build it.
Let’s stop managing poverty and start ending it.


✍️ Written by Tina Winterlik aka Zipolita
馃寪 http://tinawinterlik.blogspot.com
馃摳 Artist • Activist • Advocate

#TinyHouseRevolution #UrbanSuburbia #HomesNotHuts #GranvilleVision #DignityIsPrivacy #BCPoli #ZipolitaWrites



Hurricanes Destroy More Than Homes — They Destroy Food and Futures Too


馃尓️ Hurricanes Destroy More Than Homes — They Destroy Food and Futures Too 馃尡馃崓

When hurricanes hit, the media often shows dramatic footage of wind, rain, and collapsed buildings. But what many don’t see — and what people often forget — is what happens after the storm passes.

Yes, roofs are torn off, roads are flooded, and electricity may be down for days or weeks. But for many communities, especially in regions like Southern Mexico (Oaxaca, Chiapas, Guerrero) and Central America, the real devastation lasts for months — even years.

馃崒 Fruit Trees Take Time — and Hurricanes Take Them Away

A friend from Guadalajara recently tried to be positive, saying "It'll be over in two days." But the truth is, it’s not over when the winds die down.

  • Papaya, mango, pineapple, banana — these are not crops you replant next week and harvest next month.
  • After a hurricane tears down a mango tree, it can take a full year or more before it bears fruit again — and that’s if the tree survives.
  • New seedlings? Even longer.

For families and communities that rely on these fruit trees for food, trade, and survival, the destruction isn't temporary — it’s life-altering.

馃洜️ After the Storm: No Job, No Food, No Choice

People must:

  • Clean up their homes and streets
  • Rebuild what was lost
  • Hope aid arrives (and often it doesn't)
  • Try to feed their families in the meantime

But if their job was farming or tourism tied to now-damaged beaches, both income and food disappear.

馃С Why People Migrate — It's Not Always by Choice

This is why hurricanes are climate migration events. Not because people want to leave — but because they can't stay. With their food sources gone, homes wrecked, and no jobs in sight, many are forced to migrate north or to bigger cities just to survive.

Let’s talk more about this.

Let’s see the full picture — not just the storm, but the aftermath.

Let’s recognize that the people most affected often have no safety net, and yet show incredible strength in rebuilding.

And let’s remember that real recovery isn’t measured in days or weeks, but in seasons — and harvests.



Hurricane Erick Makes Landfall in Oaxaca – Red Alert

馃寑 Hurac谩n Erick Toca Tierra en Oaxaca - Alerta M谩xima

馃搮 Actualizaci贸n: Jueves 19 de junio de 2025, 6:00 AM CST

El hurac谩n Erick ha tocado tierra en el extremo occidental de Oaxaca, a unos 30 km al este de Punta Maldonado.

  • Vientos sostenidos: 205 km/h (Categor铆a 3)
  • Movimiento: Noroeste a 15 km/h
  • Presi贸n m铆nima: 950 mb

⚠️ Advertencias en efecto:

  • Alerta de hurac谩n: De Acapulco a Puerto 脕ngel
  • Vigilancia de hurac谩n: Al oeste de Acapulco hasta Tecpan de Galeana
  • Alerta de tormenta tropical: De Puerto 脕ngel a Salina Cruz y al oeste de Acapulco hasta Tecpan

馃導️ Lluvias intensas:

  • Oaxaca y Guerrero: 20–40 cm (hasta 40 cm en zonas altas)
  • Riesgo de inundaciones y deslaves en regiones monta帽osas

馃寠 Marejada cicl贸nica:

Se esperan inundaciones costeras peligrosas y olas destructivas cerca y al este del punto de impacto.

馃尙️ Vientos fuertes:

Los vientos huracanados se extienden hasta 35 km del centro y los de tormenta tropical hasta 150 km. En monta帽as y colinas pueden ser m谩s fuertes.

⚠️ Pr贸xima actualizaci贸n: 9:00 AM CST.


馃寑 Hurricane Erick Makes Landfall in Oaxaca – Red Alert

馃搮 Update: Thursday, June 19, 2025 – 6:00 AM CST

Hurricane Erick has made landfall in extreme western Oaxaca, about 30 km (20 miles) east of Punta Maldonado.

  • Sustained Winds: 125 mph (Category 3)
  • Movement: Northwest at 9 mph
  • Minimum Pressure: 950 mb

⚠️ Warnings in Effect:

  • Hurricane Warning: Acapulco to Puerto 脕ngel
  • Hurricane Watch: West of Acapulco to Tecpan de Galeana
  • Tropical Storm Warning: Puerto 脕ngel to Salina Cruz and west of Acapulco to Tecpan

馃導️ Heavy Rainfall:

  • Oaxaca & Guerrero: 8–16 inches, especially dangerous in steep terrain
  • Flash flooding and mudslides are likely

馃寠 Storm Surge:

Life-threatening coastal flooding and destructive waves are expected near and east of landfall.

馃尙️ Dangerous Winds:

Hurricane winds extend 25 miles from the center; tropical-storm winds extend up to 90 miles. Winds can be even stronger in mountains.

⚠️ Next full update: 9:00 AM CST.


馃寑 Ouragan Erick : Alerte Rouge – Il touche terre 脿 Oaxaca

馃搮 Mise 脿 jour : Jeudi 19 juin 2025, 6h00 (heure du centre)

L’ouragan Erick a touch茅 terre dans l’extr锚me ouest de l’Oaxaca, 脿 environ 30 km 脿 l’est de Punta Maldonado.

  • Vents soutenus : 205 km/h (Cat茅gorie 3)
  • D茅placement : Nord-ouest 脿 15 km/h
  • Pression minimale : 950 mb

⚠️ Alertes en cours :

  • Alerte ouragan : D’Acapulco 脿 Puerto 脕ngel
  • Vigilance ouragan : 脌 l’ouest d’Acapulco jusqu’脿 Tecpan de Galeana
  • Alerte temp锚te tropicale : De Puerto 脕ngel 脿 Salina Cruz et ouest d’Acapulco 脿 Tecpan

馃導️ Fortes pluies :

  • Oaxaca & Guerrero : 20–40 cm de pluie avec risque 茅lev茅 de crues et de glissements de terrain

馃寠 Mar茅e de temp锚te :

Inondations c么ti猫res dangereuses et vagues destructrices attendues autour de la zone d’impact.

馃尙️ Vents violents :

Les vents d’ouragan s’茅tendent jusqu’脿 35 km du centre, ceux de temp锚te tropicale jusqu’脿 150 km. Les zones 茅lev茅es peuvent subir des vents plus forts encore.

⚠️ Prochaine mise 脿 jour compl猫te : 9h00 (heure du centre).

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Zipolite en el Coraz贸n – En Solidaridad

馃導️馃挃 Zipolite en el Coraz贸n – En Solidaridad Durante el Hurac谩n Erick

Publicado por: Tina Winterlik / Zipolita
19 de junio de 2025

馃寑 Querido Zipolite, Mazunte, Puerto 脕ngel y todas las comunidades cercanas,

Estoy escribiendo esto con el coraz贸n en la mano. S茅 que muchos est谩n sin electricidad y sin se帽al, y eso me rompe el alma. Estoy rezando, mandando toda mi energ铆a, amor y fuerza para ustedes.

He estado all铆 antes, en una tormenta tropical, y aunque ten铆a miedo, me sent铆a segura, acurrucada en una hamaca... solo asustada cuando el trueno rug铆a tan fuerte que parec铆a que el cielo se part铆a. Pero esta vez se siente m谩s fuerte. M谩s largo. M谩s incierto.

Muchos 谩rboles ser谩n perdidos otra vez. 脕rboles que apenas hab铆an empezado a producir mangos y papayas despu茅s del 煤ltimo desastre. Sabemos que eso significa un a帽o entero para volver a ver fruta. La selva sufre, los animales tambi茅n.

Pienso en todos ustedes —las familias con beb茅s, los perritos y gatitos asustados, los vecinos que se cuidan entre s铆. Pienso en ustedes que han pasado por esto antes y a煤n se levantan una y otra vez. 馃挭

La 煤ltima vez, pas贸 m谩s de 3 d铆as sin saber de mis seres queridos. Por eso les pido a todos fuera de la zona: tengan paciencia. La falta de noticias no significa lo peor. Significa que est谩n resistiendo.

Les mando todo mi amor desde lejos.
Zipolite no est谩 sola. 馃寠馃尨馃挋

—Tina Winterlik (Zipolita)


馃導️馃挃 Zipolite in My Heart – Standing With You Through Hurricane Erick

Posted by: Tina Winterlik / Zipolita
June 19, 2025

馃寑 Dear Zipolite, Mazunte, Puerto 脕ngel and all the nearby communities,

I’m writing this with my heart open and heavy. I know many are without power or signal right now—and that breaks me. I’m praying, sending love, energy, and strength your way.

I’ve been there in a tropical storm before. I was lucky—I felt safe, tucked in a hammock… only jumping when the thunder cracked so loud it sounded like the sky was splitting open. But this time… this feels different. Stronger. Longer. More uncertain.

So many trees will be lost again. Trees that had just started giving papayas and mangos again. It takes a whole year to bring back fruit. It’s heartbreaking on so many levels—the land suffers, the animals too.

I’m thinking of all of you—families with babies, scared pets, neighbors looking out for each other. I think of how you’ve survived this before, how you get back up again and again. 馃挭

Last time, it took over 3 days before I heard from my loved ones. So to anyone outside the area: please be patient. No news doesn’t mean the worst. It means they’re holding on.

Sending love from afar.
Zipolite is not alone. 馃寠馃尨馃挋

—Tina Winterlik (Zipolita)

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Advertencia sobre cocodrilos / Crocodile Warning

馃悐 Advertencia sobre cocodrilos / Crocodile Warning

  • ⚠️ Tenga mucho cuidado en el oc茅ano, playas, lagunas y zonas inundables alrededor de Zipolite.
  • 馃毇 No permita que ni帽os o mascotas jueguen cerca del agua o en la playa durante o despu茅s de la tormenta.
  • 馃 Los cocodrilos pueden provenir de La Ventanilla si la laguna se desborda por las lluvias o tormentas fuertes.
  • 馃悤 En la 煤ltima ocasi贸n, un cocodrilo atac贸 r谩pidamente a un perro en la zona; afortunadamente no hubo ni帽os afectados.
  • 馃憖 Mantenga vigilancia constante en todas partes y, si ve un cocodrilo, mant茅ngase alejado y notifique a las autoridades locales.
  • ⚠️ Be very careful in the ocean, beaches, lagoons, and flood-prone areas around Zipolite.
  • 馃毇 Do not allow children or pets to play near water or on the beach during or after the storm.
  • 馃 Crocodiles may come from La Ventanilla if the lagoon overflows due to heavy rains or storms.
  • 馃悤 Last time, a crocodile quickly attacked a dog in the area; luckily, no children were harmed.
  • 馃憖 Stay alert everywhere, and if you see a crocodile, keep your distance and notify local authorities immediately.

Lista de Preparaci贸n para Hurac谩n en Zipolite

馃尓️ Lista de Preparaci贸n para Hurac谩n en Zipolite

(Para residentes, expatriados y visitantes – Mantente seguro, mantente tranquilo)

Me alegra saber que tus amigos est谩n tranquilos y tomando caf茅 — ayudemos a mantener esa energ铆a.


馃搶 ANTES DE LA TORMENTA

Esenciales

  • 馃摝 Suministro de agua (m铆nimo 3L por persona por d铆a para 3 d铆as)
  • 馃嵄 Comida no perecedera: enlatados, galletas, nueces, snacks
  • 馃攱 Linternas, velas, pilas, encendedores o f贸sforos
  • 馃攲 Bancos de energ铆a (power banks), carga todos los dispositivos completamente
  • 馃Щ Art铆culos de higiene y medicamentos para al menos 5–7 d铆as
  • 馃Н Extintor de incendios y botiqu铆n de primeros auxilios a mano
  • 馃挼 Algo de dinero en efectivo en billetes peque帽os (los cajeros podr铆an no funcionar)

馃彔 Protege tu hogar

  • 馃獰 Cubrir ventanas o reforzarlas con cinta adhesiva en forma de X
  • 馃彇️ Guarda todos los muebles de exterior, herramientas, hamacas, tablas de surf, etc.
  • 馃彔 Revisa la estabilidad del techo (especialmente palapas)
  • 馃惥 Asegura a los animales dentro o en un refugio seguro
  • 馃椇️ Conoce la ruta de evacuaci贸n y ubicaciones de refugios

馃惗 Para mascotas y animales

  • 馃悤 Ten listo correa, jaula, comida, agua e identificaci贸n
  • 馃悎 Mant茅n a los animales peque帽os adentro temprano
  • 馃悢 Trata de mover gallinas o aves a un lugar elevado y cerrado
  • 馃悇 Amarra animales grandes en zonas elevadas si no puedes moverlos
  • 馃摳 Toma una foto r谩pida de tu mascota en caso de separaci贸n

馃С Mochila de emergencia

  • 馃啍 Pasaporte, identificaci贸n, comprobante de domicilio
  • 馃搫 Documentos importantes en bolsa impermeable
  • 馃憰 Cambio de ropa, ropa impermeable, zapatos resistentes
  • 馃毧 Toallitas h煤medas, gel antibacterial, art铆culos femeninos
  • 馃摓 Lista de n煤meros de emergencia (polic铆a, bomberos, Cruz Roja, amigos)
  • 馃棧️ Aplicaci贸n de traducci贸n o libro de frases (si no hablas espa帽ol)

馃導️ DURANTE LA TORMENTA

  • 馃彙 Qu茅date dentro, alejado de ventanas y vidrios
  • 馃摰 Ahorra bater铆a del tel茅fono y evita llamadas innecesarias
  • 馃摶 Escucha noticias locales o radio para actualizaciones (si hay se帽al)
  • 馃‍♀️ Mant茅n la calma, tranquiliza a ni帽os y animales

☀️ DESPU脡S DE LA TORMENTA

  • 馃П Revisa da帽os estructurales antes de salir
  • ⚡ Cuidado con cables el茅ctricos ca铆dos, vidrios rotos, inundaciones
  • 馃悕 Precauci贸n con animales (serpientes, insectos) desplazados por la tormenta
  • 馃摚 Ayuda a otros, especialmente ancianos o turistas que puedan estar confundidos
  • 馃毐 Hierve el agua o espera confirmaci贸n de que es segura para beber

馃拰 Nota final: Zipolite es fuerte y resiliente. Se tienen los unos a los otros y eso es la mejor defensa. Comparte esta lista ampliamente. Recu茅rdale a los nerviosos que respiren profundo. Si est谩s seguro, revisa a tus vecinos y animales.

Cu铆date mucho. ❤️
—Tina Winterlik aka Zipolita


馃尓️ Zipolite Hurricane Preparedness Checklist

(For Residents, Expats, and Visitors – Stay Safe, Stay Calm)

Glad to hear your friends are calm and sipping coffee — let’s help keep that energy going.


馃搶 BEFORE THE STORM

Essentials

  • 馃摝 Stock up on water (minimum 3L per person per day for 3 days)
  • 馃嵄 Non-perishable food: canned goods, crackers, nuts, snacks
  • 馃攱 Flashlights, candles, batteries, lighters/matches
  • 馃攲 Power banks, charge all devices fully
  • 馃Щ Toiletries and medications for at least 5–7 days
  • 馃Н Fire extinguisher and first aid kit handy
  • 馃挼 Some cash in small bills (ATMs may go down)

馃彔 Protect Your Home

  • 馃獰 Board up windows or reinforce with tape/X pattern
  • 馃彇️ Bring in all outdoor furniture, tools, hammocks, surfboards, etc.
  • 馃彔 Check roof stability (especially palapas)
  • 馃惥 Secure animals indoors or in safe shelter
  • 馃椇️ Know the evacuation route and shelter locations

馃惗 For Pets & Animals

  • 馃悤 Have leash, crate, food, water and ID info ready
  • 馃悎 Keep small animals indoors early
  • 馃悢 Try to move chickens/birds to higher, enclosed area
  • 馃悇 Tie up large animals in elevated spots if you can’t move them
  • 馃摳 Take a quick photo of your pet in case of separation

馃С Emergency Go Bag

  • 馃啍 Passport, ID, proof of address
  • 馃搫 Important documents in a waterproof bag
  • 馃憰 Change of clothes, rain gear, sturdy shoes
  • 馃毧 Wet wipes, sanitizer, feminine hygiene items
  • 馃摓 List of emergency numbers (local police, fire dept, Red Cross, friends)
  • 馃棧️ Translator app or phrasebook (if not fluent in Spanish)

馃導️ DURING THE STORM

  • 馃彙 Stay inside, away from windows and glass
  • 馃摰 Conserve phone battery and avoid unnecessary calls
  • 馃摶 Tune into local news or radio for updates (if available)
  • 馃‍♀️ Stay calm, keep kids and animals comforted

☀️ AFTER THE STORM

  • 馃П Check for structural damage before going outside
  • ⚡ Watch for downed power lines, broken glass, flooding
  • 馃悕 Be cautious of animals (snakes, insects) displaced by storm
  • 馃摚 Help others, especially elders or tourists who may be confused
  • 馃毐 Boil water or wait for confirmation it’s safe to drink

馃拰 Final Note: Zipolite is strong and resilient. You’ve got each other, and that’s the best defense. Share this list widely. Reassure the nervous. If you’re safe, check on neighbors and animals.

Stay safe. ❤️
—Tina Winterlik aka Zipolita

Possible Hurricane Threatens Zipolite

馃尓️ Possible Hurricane Threatens Zipolite: Prepare Now

馃搮 Updated: June 18, 2025

I just checked the latest updates and Tropical Storm Erick is rapidly intensifying. It is expected to become a hurricane within hours, posing a direct threat to Zipolite and the southern coast of Oaxaca, including Puerto 脕ngel, Mazunte, San Agustinillo, and surrounding communities.

馃寑 What’s Happening?

  • Erick is about 370–430 km (230–265 miles) southeast of Puerto 脕ngel, moving northwest.
  • Sustained winds are at 80–95 km/h (50–60 mph), strengthening into a hurricane by late Tuesday or early Wednesday.
  • Landfall is expected between Wednesday and Thursday, with heavy rain, strong winds, and storm surge.

⚠️ Official Warnings

  • Hurricane Warning: Puerto 脕ngel to Punta Maldonado
  • Hurricane Watch: Includes Acapulco and Bah铆as de Huatulco
  • Tropical Storm Warning/Watch: Puerto 脕ngel to Salina Cruz
  • Schools closed and emergency shelters open

馃導️ What to Expect in Zipolite

  • 馃寠 Strong surf and storm surge
  • 馃尙️ Winds up to 120 km/h (75 mph) or stronger
  • 馃導️ Rainfall up to 40 cm (16 inches), risk of floods and landslides
  • ⚡ Possible power outages and blocked roads

✅ What You Can Do

  • Stay informed: Follow Civil Protection Oaxaca and local radio
  • Prepare supplies: Water, food, flashlights, batteries, medicine
  • Secure your home: Reinforce windows, remove loose items
  • Evacuate if needed: Especially in flood zones or unsafe areas

馃棑️ Timeline

  • June 18: Erick becomes a hurricane
  • June 19: Rain and wind reach Zipolite
  • June 20: Landfall and peak impacts

馃檹 Take care of your family, neighbors, and pets. Share this widely to protect our community.

馃敆 Official Updates:
Civil Protection Oaxaca (Facebook)
Conagua Weather Service


馃尓️ Posible Hurac谩n en Zipolite: ¡Prep谩rate Ahora!

馃搮 Actualizado: 18 de junio de 2025

Acabo de revisar las 煤ltimas noticias y la Tormenta Tropical Erick se est谩 intensificando r谩pidamente. Se espera que se convierta en hurac谩n en las pr贸ximas horas, representando una amenaza directa para Zipolite y la costa sur de Oaxaca, incluyendo Puerto 脕ngel, Mazunte, San Agustinillo y comunidades cercanas.

馃寑 ¿Qu茅 est谩 pasando?

  • Erick se encuentra a 370–430 km al sureste de Puerto 脕ngel, movi茅ndose al noroeste.
  • Vientos sostenidos de 80–95 km/h. Se espera que se convierta en hurac谩n entre martes por la noche y mi茅rcoles.
  • Se espera que toque tierra entre mi茅rcoles y jueves con fuertes lluvias y vientos.

⚠️ Alertas Oficiales

  • Alerta de Hurac谩n: Puerto 脕ngel a Punta Maldonado
  • Vigilancia de Hurac谩n: Incluye Acapulco y Bah铆as de Huatulco
  • Alerta de Tormenta Tropical: De Puerto 脕ngel a Salina Cruz
  • Escuelas cerradas y refugios activados

馃導️ ¿Qu茅 esperar en Zipolite?

  • 馃寠 Marejadas fuertes y oleaje elevado
  • 馃尙️ Vientos de hasta 120 km/h o m谩s
  • 馃導️ Lluvias de hasta 40 cm con riesgo de inundaciones y deslaves
  • ⚡ Posibles cortes de luz y caminos bloqueados

✅ ¿Qu茅 puedes hacer?

  • Inf贸rmate: Sigue Protecci贸n Civil y medios locales
  • Prepara suministros: Agua, alimentos, linterna, medicinas
  • Asegura tu casa: Refuerza ventanas, recoge objetos sueltos
  • Evac煤a si es necesario: Sobre todo si est谩s cerca del mar o en zona de riesgo

馃棑️ Cronograma

  • 18 de junio: Erick se convierte en hurac谩n
  • 19 de junio: Lluvias y viento llegan a Zipolite
  • 20 de junio: Posible impacto directo

馃檹 Cuida a tu familia, vecinos y mascotas. Comparte esta informaci贸n para proteger a la comunidad.

馃敆 Informaci贸n oficial:
Protecci贸n Civil Oaxaca (Facebook)
Conagua Clima


#Zipolite #Hurac谩nErick #Oaxaca #Emergencia #Protecci贸nCivil #TropicalStorm #HurricaneAlert

Monday, June 9, 2025

B茅same Mucho: A Love Song, A Protest Anthem, A Revolution of the Heart

 

馃挃馃槝馃馃グ馃拫❤️馃崜馃榿馃馃憦馃幍馃幖馃幁馃帪️馃帴馃摻️馃帶馃馃馃幓馃獣馃幐馃幒馃幏馃槝馃槝馃槝馃槝


馃幍 B茅same Mucho: A Love Song, A Protest Anthem, A Revolution of the Heart

By Tina Winterlik aka Zipolita
#WarriorUpWithArt #FightBackWithArt #LoveAlwaysWins

“Kiss me, kiss me a lot… as if tonight were the last time.”
It's not just a love song. It’s a shield. A torch. A promise.

We live in a world of fear, separation, ICE raids, injustice… but this song? This song reminds us that love—raw, romantic, unfiltered love—is the most powerful force we have.

And it was born from imagination, innocence, and faith.


馃尮 The Woman Who Had Never Been Kissed

In 1940, at just 24 years old, Consuelo Vel谩zquez, a classically trained Mexican pianist, composed B茅same Mucho after witnessing an emotional opera scene.
At the time… she had never even been kissed.

Yet somehow, from that untouched place in her heart, she wrote the most translated and recorded Mexican song in history.

Mistaken for a man in many countries, her authorship was hidden in plain sight. But this wasn't a man's work—it was the tender, brave expression of a young woman writing as if love were rebellion.

She went on to compose many more works, defend artists’ rights, and serve in Mexican Congress—never loud, always passionate. She passed away on January 22, 2005.


✊ When Singing Becomes Resistance

馃帳 The Singing Revolution (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania)

1987–1991: Hundreds of thousands gathered to sing for their independence from Soviet rule. Singing—illegal under occupation—was their weapon. And they won. Without war.
They showed the world: a song can be a revolution.

馃尯 The Carnation Revolution (Portugal, 1974)

A military dictatorship fell—without a single shot. Why?
Because soldiers listened to songs played on the radio.
And people placed flowers in rifles instead of firing them.
They sang. They danced. They freed their country.


馃挃 When ICE Comes… SING

Sing B茅same Mucho at the top of your lungs.
Sing when you're scared.
Sing when they knock.
Sing together, arm in arm.
Let your voice become the anthem that melts cold hearts.
Let love vibrate the walls they try to build.

Because love is more powerful than hate.
Love will prevail.
Love will WIN.
LOVE ALWAYS WINS.
Have faith. 馃寛


馃幎 “Think that maybe tomorrow, I’ll already be far, very far from you…”
That’s the feeling of protest. Of goodbye. Of holding on. Of fighting for the right to stay, to love, to live.

So SING. Sing like the revolution depends on it—because it does.
Let this song be your light.


馃挅 Dedicated with love…

To my beautiful mother, who passed away on January 22, 2007, the same day as Consuelo Vel谩zquez two years later.
Two strong, soulful women whose love lives on—in memory, in melody, and in every brave heart that chooses love over fear.
Te amo siempre. 馃挄


B茅same, b茅same muchoComo si fuera esta noche la 煤ltima vezB茅same, b茅same muchoQue tengo miedo a perderte, perderte despu茅s
B茅same, b茅same muchoComo si fuera esta noche la 煤ltima vezB茅same, b茅same muchoQue tengo miedo a perderte, perderte despu茅s
Quiero tenerte muy cercaMirarme en tus ojos, verte junto a m铆Piensa que tal vez ma帽anaYo ya estar茅 lejos, muy lejos de ti
B茅same, b茅same muchoComo si fuera esta noche la 煤ltima vezB茅same, b茅same muchoQue tengo miedo a perderte, perderte despu茅s
B茅same, b茅same muchoQue tengo miedo a perderte, perderte despu茅sQue tengo miedo a perdertePerderte despu茅s.  

Sing BESAME MUCHO馃グ馃槝馃拫❤️馃崜馃榿

 ❤️馃崜馃榿馃槝馃グ馃拫馃幏馃幒馃幐馃獣馃幓馃馃帳馃帶馃摻️馃帴馃帪️馃幁馃幖馃幍馃幎

#WarriorUpWithArt

#FightBackWithArt


 Translations of the original blog post in SpanishFrench, and Portuguese.


馃嚜馃嚫 Versi贸n en Espa帽ol

馃幍 B茅same Mucho: Una Canci贸n de Amor, Un Himno de Protesta, Una Revoluci贸n del Coraz贸n

Por Tina Winterlik, tambi茅n conocida como Zipolita
#GuerreraConArte #LuchaConArte #ElAmorSiempreGana

“B茅same, b茅same mucho… como si fuera esta noche la 煤ltima vez.”
No es solo una canci贸n de amor. Es un escudo. Una luz. Una promesa.

Vivimos en un mundo de miedo, redadas, injusticia… pero esta canci贸n nos recuerda que el amor—puro, rom谩ntico, sin filtros—es la fuerza m谩s poderosa que tenemos.

Y naci贸 de la imaginaci贸ninocencia y fe.


馃尮 La Mujer Que Nunca Hab铆a Besado

En 1940, con solo 24 a帽os, Consuelo Vel谩zquez, pianista cl谩sica mexicana, compuso B茅same Mucho inspirada por una escena de 贸pera.
En ese momento… nunca hab铆a besado a nadie.

Y aun as铆, desde ese rinc贸n inexplorado de su coraz贸n, escribi贸 la canci贸n mexicana m谩s traducida e interpretada de la historia.

Durante a帽os, se crey贸 que el compositor era un hombre. Pero no. Fue una joven mujer quien escribi贸 como si el amor fuera un acto de rebeli贸n.

Consuelo compuso decenas de canciones, defendi贸 los derechos de los artistas y fue diputada en el Congreso mexicano. Falleci贸 el 22 de enero de 2005.


✊ Cuando Cantar Es Resistir

馃帳 La Revoluci贸n Cantada (Estonia, Letonia, Lituania)

1987–1991: Cientos de miles cantaron por su independencia del r茅gimen sovi茅tico. Cantar—prohibido por la ocupaci贸n—fue su arma.
Y vencieron. Sin disparar una sola bala.

馃尯 La Revoluci贸n de los Claveles (Portugal, 1974)

Un r茅gimen militar cay贸 sin violencia. ¿C贸mo?
Porque los soldados escucharon canciones por la radio.
Y el pueblo coloc贸 claveles en los fusiles.
Cantaron. Bailaron. Liberaron su pa铆s.


馃挃 Cuando Llegue ICE… CANTEN

Canta B茅same Mucho con todo tu coraz贸n.
Canta cuando tengas miedo.
Canta cuando toquen la puerta.
Canten juntos, tomados de la mano.
Deja que tu voz derrita corazones fr铆os.
Deja que el amor resuene m谩s fuerte que el odio.

Porque el amor es m谩s poderoso que el odio.
El amor prevalecer谩.
El amor GANAR脕.
EL AMOR SIEMPRE GANA.
Ten fe. 馃寛


馃挅 Dedicado con amor…

mi querida madre, quien falleci贸 el 22 de enero de 2007, el mismo d铆a que Consuelo Vel谩zquez, dos a帽os despu茅s.
Dos mujeres fuertes y llenas de alma cuyo amor vive en cada recuerdo, en cada melod铆a y en cada coraz贸n valiente que elige el amor por encima del miedo.
Te amo siempre. 馃挄


馃嚝馃嚪 Version en Fran莽ais

馃幍 B茅same Mucho : Une Chanson d’Amour, Un Hymne de Protestation, Une R茅volution du C艙ur

Par Tina Winterlik alias Zipolita
#ArtEnR茅sistance #LutterAvecLArt #LAmourGagneToujours

« Embrasse-moi, embrasse-moi beaucoup… comme si ce soir 茅tait le dernier. »
Ce n’est pas juste une chanson d’amour. C’est un bouclier. Une lumi猫re. Une promesse.

Nous vivons dans un monde de peur, de r茅pressions, d’injustice… mais cette chanson nous rappelle que l’amour—authentique, romantique, libre—est la force la plus puissante que nous poss茅dons.

Et elle est n茅e de l’imagination, de l’innocence et de la foi.


馃尮 La Femme Qui N’Avait Jamais 脡t茅 Embrass茅e

En 1940, 脿 seulement 24 ans, Consuelo Vel谩zquez, pianiste classique mexicaine, compose B茅same Mucho apr猫s avoir vu une sc猫ne d’op茅ra 茅mouvante.
脌 l’茅poque… elle n’avait jamais embrass茅 personne.

Et pourtant, avec son c艙ur innocent, elle a 茅crit la chanson mexicaine la plus traduite et chant茅e de tous les temps.

Pendant longtemps, on a cru que l’auteur 茅tait un homme. Mais non. C’茅tait une jeune femme qui 茅crivait comme si aimer 茅tait un acte de r茅bellion.

Consuelo a ensuite compos茅 de nombreuses chansons, d茅fendu les droits des artistes et si茅g茅 au Congr猫s mexicain. Elle est d茅c茅d茅e le 22 janvier 2005.


✊ Quand le Chant Devient R茅sistance

馃帳 La R茅volution Chant茅e (Estonie, Lettonie, Lituanie)

1987–1991 : des centaines de milliers de personnes ont chant茅 pour leur ind茅pendance.
Ils ont r茅sist茅 avec leurs voix.
Et ils ont gagn茅. Sans guerre.

馃尯 La R茅volution des 艗illets (Portugal, 1974)

Un r茅gime est tomb茅 sans violence. Pourquoi ?
Les soldats ont 茅cout茅 des chansons diffus茅es 脿 la radio.
Le peuple a mis des 艙illets dans les fusils.
Ils ont chant茅, dans茅, lib茅r茅 leur nation.


馃挃 Quand ICE Arrive… CHANTEZ

Chantez B茅same Mucho 脿 pleins poumons.
Chantez quand vous avez peur.
Chantez quand on frappe 脿 la porte.
Chantez ensemble.
Laissez vos voix faire fondre les c艙urs glac茅s.
Laissez l’amour faire trembler les murs.

L’amour est plus puissant que la haine.
L’amour pr茅vaudra.
L’amour VAINCRA.
L’AMOUR GAGNE TOUJOURS.
Ayez foi. 馃寛


馃挅 D茅di茅 avec amour…

脌 ma ch猫re maman, d茅c茅d茅e le 22 janvier 2007, le m锚me jour que Consuelo Vel谩zquez, deux ans plus tard.
Deux femmes fortes, pleines d’芒me, dont l’amour vit dans chaque souvenir, chaque m茅lodie, chaque c艙ur qui choisit l’amour plut么t que la peur.
Je t’aimerai toujours. 馃挄


馃嚙馃嚪 Vers茫o em Portugu锚s

馃幍 B茅same Mucho: Uma Can莽茫o de Amor, Um Hino de Protesto, Uma Revolu莽茫o do Cora莽茫o

Por Tina Winterlik, tamb茅m conhecida como Zipolita
#GuerrilhaComArte #LuteComArte #OAmorSempreVence

“Beije-me, beije-me muito… como se esta noite fosse a 煤ltima vez.”
N茫o 茅 s贸 uma can莽茫o de amor. 脡 um escudo. Uma luz. Uma promessa.

Vivemos em um mundo de medo, de injusti莽as, de repress茫o… Mas esta m煤sica nos lembra que o amor—verdadeiro, rom芒ntico, sem limites—茅 a for莽a mais poderosa que temos.

E nasceu da imagina莽茫oinoc锚ncia e f茅.


馃尮 A Mulher Que Nunca Foi Beijada

Em 1940, com apenas 24 anos, Consuelo Vel谩zquez, pianista cl谩ssica mexicana, comp么s B茅same Mucho inspirada por uma cena de 贸pera emocionante.
Naquele momento… nunca tinha beijado ningu茅m.

Mesmo assim, de um lugar puro dentro de si, nasceu a can莽茫o mexicana mais traduzida e interpretada da hist贸ria.

Por anos, muitos pensaram que o autor era homem. Mas n茫o. Era uma jovem mulher escrevendo como se amar fosse um ato revolucion谩rio.

Consuelo comp么s muitas outras m煤sicas, defendeu os direitos dos artistas e serviu no Congresso Mexicano. Faleceu em 22 de janeiro de 2005.


✊ Quando Cantar 脡 Resist锚ncia

馃帳 A Revolu莽茫o do Canto (Est么nia, Let么nia, Litu芒nia)

1987–1991: Centenas de milhares cantaram por sua liberdade.
Eles resistiram com vozes e coragem.
E venceram. Sem uma gota de sangue.

馃尯 A Revolu莽茫o dos Cravos (Portugal, 1974)

Um regime militar caiu sem viol锚ncia. Como?
Soldados ouviram m煤sicas pelo r谩dio.
O povo colocou cravos nas armas.
Cantaram. Dan莽aram. Libertaram a na莽茫o.


馃挃 Quando ICE Chegar… CANTEM

Cante B茅same Mucho com toda sua alma.
Cante quando estiver com medo.
Cante quando baterem 脿 porta.
Cantem juntos, de m茫os dadas.
Deixem suas vozes derreterem cora莽玫es frios.
Deixem o amor vibrar mais alto que o 贸dio.

Porque o amor 茅 mais forte que o 贸dio.
O amor vai prevalecer.
O amor VAI VENCER.
O AMOR SEMPRE VENCE.
Tenha f茅. 馃寛


馃挅 Dedicado com amor…

Para minha querida m茫e, que faleceu em 22 de janeiro de 2007, exatamente dois anos depois de Consuelo Vel谩zquez.
Duas mulheres fortes e cheias de alma, cujo amor vive em cada lembran莽a, cada melodia, e em cada cora莽茫o corajoso que escolhe o amor em vez do medo.
Te amarei para sempre. 馃挄


fighting for the right to stay, to love, to live.

So SING. Sing like the revolution depends on it—because it does.
Let this song be your light.


馃挅 Dedicated with love…

To my beautiful mother, who passed away on January 22, 2007, the same day as Consuelo Vel谩zquez two years later.
Two strong, soulful women whose love lives on—in memory, in melody, and in every brave heart that chooses love over fear.
Te amo siempre. 馃挄

馃挃馃崜❤️馃拫馃槝馃グ馃挋馃幎馃幍馃幖馃幁馃帪️馃帴馃摻️馃帶馃帳馃馃幓馃獣馃幐馃幒馃幏馃槝馃槝馃槝馃槝

Sunday, May 25, 2025

Agua limpia y natural para Zipolite!

¡Agua limpia y natural para Zipolite! Soluci贸n sencilla inspirada en los Mayas

Por Tina Winterlik | Zipolita | Adventurez In Mexico Blog

Muchas personas en Zipolite, especialmente en Playa del Amor, enfrentan desaf铆os diarios para conseguir agua limpia. El agua es cara, dif铆cil de transportar y muchas veces se hierve o se desinfecta con Microdyn. ¿Y si existiera una opci贸n m谩s saludable, econ贸mica y sostenible?

Hace m谩s de 2,000 a帽os, los antiguos mayas desarrollaron un sistema de purificaci贸n de agua usando rocas volc谩nicas como la zeolita. ¡Y t煤 tambi茅n puedes construir uno en casa!

¿C贸mo funciona?

  • Recolectas agua de lluvia o del tinaco
  • Filtras el agua usando arena, grava, carb贸n y zeolita (roca volc谩nica)
  • Desinfectas el agua al hervirla o dejarla al sol (m茅todo SODIS)

¿Qu茅 necesitas?

  • 2 cubetas o tinajas
  • Arena, grava, carb贸n vegetal, y zeolita
  • Tela o filtro de caf茅
  • Herramientas b谩sicas

¡Gu铆a Gratis!

Descarga esta gu铆a gratuita en PDF con instrucciones paso a paso:

Descargar Gu铆a: Filtro de Agua Casero (PDF)

Infograf铆a

Infograf铆a Filtro Casero

Beneficios

  • Reduce el uso de pl谩stico (menos garrafones)
  • Aprovecha la temporada de lluvias (junio–octubre)
  • Es una opci贸n ecol贸gica y digna
  • Puedes hacerlo con amigos o vecinos

Recursos

¡Comp谩rtelo!

Si conoces a alguien en Zipolite que necesita ayuda con el agua, comparte este blog. Puedes enviarlo por WhatsApp, Facebook o en persona.

¡Nos vemos en septiembre!
Tina Winterlik / Zipolita

Agua Limpia para Zipolite: A Simple, Natural Solution Inspired by the Maya

By Tina Winterlik | Zipolita | Adventurez In Mexico Blog

In the beautiful, wild heart of Zipolite—especially in Playa del Amor—many of us know the struggle to get clean water. Whether you’ve lived through hurricanes, fires, or just high rent from expensive water delivery, you know how precious every drop is.

But what if I told you that over 2,000 years ago, the ancient Maya invented a system to purify water using volcanic stones—and we can do the same today?

As I prepare to return to Zipolite this September, I’ve been researching how we can create simple water filters using local materials—things like lava rock (zeolite), sand, and charcoal. These materials can turn rainwater or tinaco water into clean, drinkable water—without needing to buy plastic garrafones or spend hundreds of pesos on deliveries.

How It Works

  • Rainwater collection (from roofs or tarps)
  • A simple gravity-fed filter made of gravel, sand, volcanic rock, and charcoal
  • Then solar disinfection (leave the water in clear bottles in the sun), or boil it

Why Build This in Zipolite?

  • Lots of rain from June to October = free clean water
  • Volcanic rock is available in Oaxaca and often sold as garden rock
  • It’s healthier and cheaper than bottled water
  • Less plastic. Less cost. More dignity.

How to Build It at Home

  • 2 large buckets or clay pots
  • Gravel, lava rock (zeolite), sand, and charcoal
  • Drill drainage holes or ask a friend with tools
  • Optional spigot or tap

I'll soon share an illustrated guide in Spanish to show each step. You can build it with neighbors or friends as a community effort.

How to Make Sure It’s Safe

  • Filter first, then disinfect
  • Boil the water, or
  • Use the SODIS solar method: 6 hours in clear plastic bottles under full sun
  • Optional: Use Microdyn or SafeHome test kits

I Want to Help in Person

When I return to Zipolite in September, I’d love to help build some of these filters—especially in Playa del Amor, where access is harder and delivery is expensive.

Resources & Links

Let’s Share and Connect

Please share this post with friends in Oaxaca or Zipolite who could benefit from a cleaner, more affordable water system.

Message me or follow me on Facebook: facebook.com/zipolita

¡Nos vemos pronto!
Tina Winterlik / Zipolita

Friday, May 9, 2025

Zipolite: Recordando el Esp铆ritu, Respetando el Presente

 

Publicado por Tina Winterlik aka Zipolita | Blog Adventurez in Mexico

Durante a帽os, Zipolite fue un lugar donde el tiempo se desaceleraba, donde las hamacas se mec铆an con la brisa y por $50 pesos pod铆as dormir en un cuarto sencillo frente al mar. Recuerdo cuando las comidas eran b谩sicas, frescas y accesibles—y lo que atra铆a a la gente era la magia de la sencillez, la belleza salvaje y la amabilidad de la comunidad.

Hoy, todo se siente diferente.

Se construyen condominios donde antes hab铆a palmeras. Los precios se han disparado—algunas comidas cuestan m谩s que en Canad谩. Los turistas llegan esperando agua caliente, aire acondicionado, Wi-Fi r谩pido, albercas… y cuando falla la luz o algo no sale como esperaban, culpan a los locales. Pero ellos no son la causa—ellos est谩n sobreviviendo, adapt谩ndose y trabajando m谩s duro que nunca en un sistema cada vez m谩s complicado.

Y a煤n m谩s preocupante, en los 煤ltimos a帽os ha surgido una mezcla rara de turismo espiritual y explotaci贸n—personas vendiendo experiencias de “sanaci贸n” y retiros de yoga sin entender realmente la energ铆a de esta tierra ni la profundidad de su cultura. Lo que comenz贸 como un espacio sagrado, en algunos rincones, se ha convertido en mercanc铆a.

Y luego est谩 la basura. La falta de respeto. Sexo en la playa a plena luz del d铆a, turistas entrando completamente desnudos a los restaurantes, condones abandonados en la arena. Esto no es libertad. Esto no es nudismo respetuoso. Esto no es Zipolite.

He guardado silencio por un tiempo. He observado. He rezado. Y he dudado—porque no quiero causar m谩s conflicto ni hablar por encima de quienes tienen ra铆ces profundas aqu铆. Pero tampoco quiero que el silencio se convierta en consentimiento.

Escribo esto no para criticar, sino para recordar.

Zipolite es especial. Es sagrado. Nunca fue pensado como un resort, y nunca fue pensado para venderse.

Si vienes aqu铆—por una semana o para quedarte—ven con humildad. Ven con gratitud. Ven con el deseo de aportar, no solo de llevarte algo.

Esta tierra le pertenece a la naturaleza. Le pertenece a la gente que la ha amado mucho antes de que se hiciera popular en redes sociales. Honremos ese esp铆ritu—antes de que desaparezca.

Con amor y memoria,
Tina Winterlik aka Zipolita


Zipolite: Remembering the Spirit, Respecting the Present

 

 

Posted by Tina Winterlik aka Zipolita | Adventurez in Mexico Blog

For years, Zipolite was a place where time slowed down, where hammocks swayed in the breeze and $50 pesos could get you a simple room on the beach. I still remember when meals were basic, fresh, and affordable—and what drew people here was the magic of simplicity, the wild beauty, and the kindness of the community.

Today, everything feels different.

Condos rise where palm trees once stood. Prices have skyrocketed—some meals now cost more than in Canada. Tourists come expecting hot water, air conditioning, fast Wi-Fi, swimming pools... and when the power goes out or things don’t go as planned, it’s locals who get blamed. And yet, they are not the cause—they’re surviving, adapting, and working harder than ever in an increasingly difficult system.

Even worse, in recent years, we’ve seen a strange mix of spiritual tourism and exploitation—people selling “healing” experiences and yoga retreats with little understanding of the land’s energy or the culture’s depth. What began as a sacred space has, in some corners, become a commodity.

And then, the trash. The disrespect. Sex on the beach in broad daylight, tourists walking into restaurants completely nude, condoms left behind in the sand. This is not freedom. This is not respectful nudism. This is not Zipolite.

I’ve stayed quiet for a while. I’ve watched. I’ve prayed. And I’ve hesitated—because I don’t want to stir more conflict or speak over those whose roots here go back generations. But I also don’t want to let the silence become consent.

So I write this not to criticize, but to remember.

Zipolite is special. It’s sacred. It was never meant to be a resort, and it was never meant to be sold.

If you come here—whether for a week or to stay forever—come with humility. Come with gratitude. Come with a willingness to give, not just to take.

This land belongs to nature. It belongs to the people who have loved it long before it became popular on social media. Let’s honor that spirit—before it slips away.

With love and memory,
Tina Winterlik aka Zipolita


Saturday, January 25, 2025

La Gran Divisi贸n: Reflexiones sobre las Deportaciones Masivas y el Cambio en el Rostro de M茅xico

Mientras reflexiono sobre el estado actual del mundo, mi coraz贸n se duele por M茅xico, el pa铆s que ha sido mi segundo hogar durante tantos a帽os. Las noticias de deportaciones masivas se sienten como una tormenta en el horizonte, una que amenaza con profundizar divisiones, desarraigar vidas y transformar la esencia misma de una naci贸n.


Un video que vi recientemente me toc贸 el alma. Una mujer hablaba con pasi贸n en contra de quienes apoyan estas deportaciones, llam谩ndolos a dejar de disfrutar la comida, la m煤sica y la cultura mexicana. Fue a煤n m谩s all谩, dirigi茅ndose a los latinos que solo abrazan su herencia cuando les conviene, un sentimiento que cala hondo. Es un recordatorio de cu谩n interconectado, y a la vez fracturado, se ha vuelto nuestro mundo.


Por m谩s de 20 a帽os, he vivido y viajado por M茅xico, abrazando su cultura, sus luchas y sus alegr铆as. He visto lo bueno, lo malo y todo lo intermedio. Cri茅 a mi hija para que conociera su herencia, sumergi茅ndola en la vibrante cultura mexicana. Juntas viajamos de pueblo en pueblo, aprendiendo, creciendo y adoptando una familia propia entre los locales.


Pero tambi茅n he visto los cambios: la gentrificaci贸n que expulsa a los locales de sus hogares, los desastres naturales que devastan comunidades y el turismo que a veces parece m谩s explotador que celebratorio. Recuerdo la desgarradora p茅rdida de Gloria, una mujer que valoraba la sacralidad del nudismo y trabaj贸 para preservar la vida simple en Zipolite. Su visi贸n fue pisoteada por la afluencia del turismo sexual, una realidad dolorosa que es dif铆cil reconciliar con las ra铆ces espirituales y sagradas de la regi贸n.


El fuego, los huracanes, los par谩sitos y la lucha constante por llegar a fin de mes: todo esto me conect贸 profundamente con el pueblo mexicano y su resiliencia. Compartimos el dolor y la alegr铆a, la tristeza y la esperanza. Sin embargo, incluso en medio de estas experiencias compartidas, he visto crecer el resentimiento. Los extranjeros, incluy茅ndome, no siempre somos vistos como aliados, sino como contribuyentes a los problemas: el desarrollo excesivo, los costos crecientes y la erosi贸n cultural.


Y ahora, con el aumento de las deportaciones, ¿en qu茅 se convertir谩 M茅xico? ¿C贸mo remodelar谩 la afluencia de personas desplazadas a sus comunidades, su econom铆a, su identidad? Es dif铆cil no preocuparse por el impacto en las familias que quedan atr谩s, los recursos que se agotan y las tensiones inevitables que surgen cuando las personas se ven obligadas a situaciones desesperadas.


Para aquellos de nosotros que hemos vivido y amado en M茅xico, esto no es solo un tema pol铆tico, es personal. Extra帽o profundamente a mi familia mexicana. Me recibieron en sus vidas, me hicieron sentir como en casa y me ense帽aron mucho sobre la resiliencia, el amor y la comunidad. Siempre he dicho que soy como un perro mexicano: leal, encontrando mi familia y regresando a帽o tras a帽o. Pero este a帽o, no puedo regresar.


La Gran Divisi贸n se siente m谩s real que nunca. Las divisiones entre el Norte y el Sur, ricos y pobres, locales y extranjeros: todo se est谩 volviendo m谩s agudo, m谩s dif铆cil de ignorar. Y, sin embargo, mi amor por M茅xico y su gente sigue siendo inquebrantable.


No tengo respuestas, solo preguntas y reflexiones. ¿Qu茅 podemos hacer para cerrar estas divisiones? ¿C贸mo podemos honrar las culturas que amamos sin contribuir a su explotaci贸n? ¿Y c贸mo podemos solidarizarnos con quienes est谩n sufriendo, ya sea en M茅xico, Canad谩 o Estados Unidos?


Estas son las preguntas que llevo conmigo y espero que tambi茅n despierten algo en ti.


Si alguna vez has sentido la calidez de una familia mexicana, bailado su m煤sica o compartido una comida en su mesa, ahora es el momento de reflexionar sobre lo que eso significa. No contribuyamos a la Gran Divisi贸n. En lugar de eso, busquemos conexi贸n, comprensi贸n y respeto, por M茅xico y por el mundo.


The Great Divide: Reflections on Mass Deportations and the Changing Face of Mexico

As I sit here, reflecting on the current state of the world, my heart aches for Mexico, the country that has been my second home for so many years. The news of mass deportations feels like a storm on the horizon—one that threatens to deepen divisions, uproot lives, and transform the very essence of a nation.

A video I recently saw struck a nerve. A woman passionately spoke out against those supporting these deportations, calling on them to stop enjoying Mexican food, music, and culture. She went further, addressing Latinos who only embrace their heritage when it’s convenient, a sentiment that cuts deep. It’s a stark reminder of how interconnected—and yet fractured—our world has become.

For over 20 years, I’ve lived and traveled in Mexico, embracing its culture, struggles, and joys. I’ve seen the good, the bad, and everything in between. I raised my daughter to know her heritage, immersing her in Mexico’s vibrant culture. Together, we traveled from town to town, learning, growing, and adopting a family of our own among the locals.

But I’ve also seen the changes—gentrification pushing locals out of their homes, natural disasters devastating communities, and tourism that sometimes feels more exploitative than celebratory. I remember the heartbreaking loss of Gloria, a woman who cherished the sacredness of nudity and worked to preserve the simple life in Zipolite. Her vision was trampled by the influx of sex tourism, a painful reality that’s hard to reconcile with the spiritual and sacred roots of the region.

The fire, the hurricanes, the hookworm, and the constant struggle to make ends meet—all of it connected me deeply to the Mexican people and their resilience. We shared pain and joy, heartbreak and hope. Yet, even amidst these shared experiences, I’ve seen the resentment grow. Foreigners, myself included, are not always seen as allies but as contributors to the problems—overdevelopment, rising costs, and cultural erosion.

And now, with deportations increasing, what will Mexico become? How will the influx of displaced people reshape its communities, its economy, its identity? It’s hard not to worry about the impact on the families left behind, the resources stretched thin, and the inevitable tensions that arise when people are forced into desperate situations.

For those of us who have lived and loved in Mexico, this isn’t just a political issue—it’s personal. I miss my Mexican family deeply. They welcomed me into their lives, made me feel at home, and taught me so much about resilience, love, and community. I’ve always said I’m like a Mexican dog—loyal, finding my family and returning year after year. But this year, I can’t go back.

The Great Divide feels more real than ever. The divisions between North and South, rich and poor, local and foreigner—it’s all becoming sharper, harder to ignore. And yet, my love for Mexico and its people remains unwavering.

I don’t have answers, only questions and reflections. What can we do to bridge these divides? How can we honor the cultures we love without contributing to their exploitation? And how do we stand in solidarity with those who are suffering, whether in Mexico, Canada, or the United States?

These are the questions I carry with me, and I hope they spark something in you, too.

If you’ve ever felt the warmth of a Mexican family, danced to their music, or shared a meal at their table, now is the time to reflect on what that means. Let’s not contribute to the Great Divide. Instead, let’s strive for connection, understanding, and respect—for Mexico and for the world.


A message of Hope 2025

 Cuanto m谩s aprendas, m谩s poder tendr谩s para defender lo que es correcto. Conc茅ntrate en la escuela y piensa en formas en las que puedes marcar una diferencia a medida que creces.


4. Alza la voz


Incluso los ni帽os pueden hacer o铆r su voz. Puedes:


Escribir cartas a los l铆deres locales sobre c贸mo la separaci贸n familiar afecta a los ni帽os.


Crear arte o videos para compartir tu historia e inspirar a otros a ayudar.


脷nete a marchas o eventos con tu familia para abogar por un cambio.


5. Ayuda a crear soluciones


Trabaja con otros para pensar en ideas para apoyar a las familias. Por ejemplo:


Recauda dinero para boletos de avi贸n para que los ni帽os puedan visitar a sus seres queridos en M茅xico.


Inicia un grupo de apoyo para ni帽os que est茅n pasando por lo mismo.


6. Mantente fuerte juntos


Las familias pueden ser poderosas incluso cuando est谩n separadas. Ap贸yense mutuamente, recuerden que no est谩n solos y mant茅nganse enfocados en el amor que los conecta.


Un mensaje de esperanza


Aunque pueda parecer lo m谩s dif铆cil en este momento, recuerda que no eres impotente. Al mantenerte conectado, aprender y encontrar formas de ayudar a los dem谩s, est谩s demostrando una fortaleza incre铆ble. Las familias pueden sobrevivir a tiempos dif铆ciles y el amor puede crecer a煤n m谩s fuerte a trav茅s de la distancia. Lo que m谩s importa es no rendirse.



The more you learn, the more power you have to stand up for what's right. Focus on school and think of ways you can make a difference as you grow up.


4. Speak up


Even children can make their voices heard. You can:


Write letters to local leaders about how family separation affects children.


Create art or videos to share your story and inspire others to help.


Join marches or events with your family to advocate for change.


5. Help create solutions


Work with others to come up with ideas to support families. For example:


Raise money for plane tickets so children can visit loved ones in Mexico.


Start a support group for children going through the same thing.


6. Stay strong together


Families can be powerful even when they're apart. Support each other, remember you're not alone, and stay focused on the love that connects you.


A message of hope


Even though it may feel like the hardest thing right now, remember that you are not powerless. By staying connected, learning, and finding ways to help others, you are showing incredible strength. Families can survive difficult times, and love can grow even stronger through distance. What matters most is not giving up.


Plus vous en apprenez, plus vous avez le pouvoir de d茅fendre ce qui est juste. Concentrez-vous sur l'茅cole et r茅fl茅chissez aux fa莽ons dont vous pouvez faire une diff茅rence en grandissant.


4. Parlez


M锚me les enfants peuvent faire entendre leur voix. Tu peux:


R茅digez des lettres aux dirigeants locaux sur la fa莽on dont la s茅paration familiale affecte les enfants.


Cr茅ez des 艙uvres d'art ou des vid茅os pour partager votre histoire et inciter les autres 脿 vous aider.


Joignez-vous 脿 des marches ou 脿 des 茅v茅nements avec votre famille pour plaider en faveur du changement.


5. Aidez 脿 cr茅er des solutions


Travaillez avec d'autres pour trouver des id茅es pour soutenir les familles. Par exemple:


Collectez des fonds pour acheter des billets d'avion afin que les enfants puissent rendre visite 脿 leurs proches au Mexique.


Cr茅ez un groupe de soutien pour les enfants qui vivent la m锚me chose.


6. Restez forts ensemble


Les familles peuvent 锚tre puissantes m锚me lorsqu'elles sont s茅par茅es. Soutenez-vous les uns les autres, rappelez-vous que vous n'锚tes pas seul et restez concentr茅 sur l'amour qui vous relie.


Un message d'espoir


M锚me si 莽a peut sembler la chose la plus difficile en ce moment, n'oubliez pas que vous n'锚tes pas impuissant. En restant connect茅, en apprenant et en trouvant des fa莽ons d'aider les autres, vous faites preuve d'une force incroyable. Les familles peuvent survivre 脿 des moments difficiles et l'amour peut devenir encore plus fort gr芒ce 脿 la distance. Ce qui compte le plus, c'est de pas abandonner.


C贸mo los ni帽os pueden mantenerse conectados con padres o abuelos que han sido deportados y tomar el control

 



How Kids Can Stay Connected with Parents or Grandparents Who Are Deported and Take the Power Back

If someone you love, like a parent or grandparent, is deported back to Mexico, it’s really tough. But you can still stay connected and keep your bond strong. Here’s how:

Staying in Touch

  1. Video Calls and Messages

    • Use apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or Zoom to make video calls or send messages. They’re free, as long as there’s internet.
    • Set a regular time to talk so you always know when you’ll hear from them.
  2. Write Letters or Draw Pictures

    • Sending letters, drawings, or even little gifts is a meaningful way to stay connected. Ask an adult to help mail them.
  3. Create a Memory Box

    • Keep photos, letters, or small items that remind you of your loved one in a special box. When you miss them, you can look through it.
  4. Celebrate Together from Afar

    • Even if they’re far away, you can celebrate birthdays, holidays, or special events by sharing photos or videos of your day.
  5. Learn Together

    • If you both have internet, you can watch the same movies, play online games, or even read the same books. This helps you feel connected even when apart.

Taking the Power Back

  1. Learn About Your Roots

    • Ask your parents or grandparents about their lives in Mexico, traditions, and family stories. Learning about your heritage can make you feel stronger and closer to them.
  2. Stay Connected to the Community

    • Join clubs, organizations, or groups in your area that celebrate your culture. You’ll meet other kids who might be going through the same thing.
  3. Get Educated

    • The more you learn, the more power you have to stand up for what’s right. Focus on school, and think about ways you can make a difference as you grow up.
  4. Speak Up

    • Even kids can use their voices. You can:
      • Write letters to local leaders about how families being separated hurts kids.
      • Make art or videos to share your story and inspire others to help.
      • Join marches or events with your family to stand up for change.
  5. Help Build Solutions

    • Work with others to come up with ideas to support families. For example:
      • Fundraise for plane tickets so kids can visit their loved ones in Mexico.
      • Start a support group for kids who are going through the same thing.
  6. Stay Strong Together

    • Families can be powerful even when they’re apart. Support each other, remind yourselves you’re not alone, and stay focused on the love that connects you.

A Message of Hope

Even if this feels like the hardest thing right now, remember that you’re not powerless. By staying connected, learning, and finding ways to help others, you’re showing incredible strength. Families can survive tough times, and love can grow even stronger across distances. What matters most is not giving up.


C贸mo los ni帽os pueden mantenerse conectados con padres o abuelos que han sido deportados y tomar el control

Si alguien a quien amas, como un padre o abuelo, es deportado a M茅xico, es muy dif铆cil. Pero a煤n puedes mantenerte en contacto y fortalecer el v铆nculo. Aqu铆 te decimos c贸mo:

Mantener el contacto

  1. Llamadas y mensajes de video

    • Usa aplicaciones como WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger o Zoom para hacer llamadas de video o enviar mensajes. Son gratis, siempre y cuando haya internet.
    • Establece un horario regular para hablar, as铆 siempre sabr谩s cu谩ndo recibir谩s noticias de ellos.
  2. Escribir cartas o dibujar im谩genes

    • Enviar cartas, dibujos o incluso peque帽os regalos es una manera significativa de mantenerse conectado. Pide a un adulto que te ayude a enviarlos por correo.
  3. Crear una caja de recuerdos

    • Guarda fotos, cartas o peque帽os objetos que te recuerden a tu ser querido en una caja especial. Cuando los extra帽es, podr谩s mirar dentro.
  4. Celebrar juntos desde lejos

    • Aunque est茅n lejos, pueden celebrar cumplea帽os, d铆as festivos o eventos especiales compartiendo fotos o videos de su d铆a.
  5. Aprender juntos

    • Si ambos tienen internet, pueden ver las mismas pel铆culas, jugar juegos en l铆nea o incluso leer los mismos libros. Esto te ayudar谩 a sentirte conectado, incluso cuando est茅n separados.

Tomar el control

  1. Aprender sobre tus ra铆ces

    • Pregunta a tus padres o abuelos sobre sus vidas en M茅xico, sus tradiciones y las historias familiares. Aprender sobre tu herencia puede hacerte sentir m谩s fuerte y m谩s cerca de ellos.
  2. Mantenerse conectado con la comunidad

    • 脷nete a clubes, organizaciones o grupos en tu 谩rea que celebren tu cultura. Conocer谩s a otros ni帽os que podr铆an estar pasando por lo mismo.
  3. Estudiar y educarte

    • Cuanto m谩s aprendas, m谩s poder tendr谩s para defender lo que es correcto. Conc茅dele importancia a la escuela y piensa en c贸mo puedes hacer la diferencia cuando seas mayor.
  4. Hablar y alzar la voz

    • Incluso los ni帽os pueden usar su voz. Puedes:
      • Escribir cartas a los l铆deres locales sobre c贸mo la separaci贸n de las familias afecta a los ni帽os.
      • Crear arte o videos para compartir tu historia e inspirar a otros a ayudar.
      • Unirte a marchas o eventos con tu familia para apoyar el cambio.
  5. Ayudar a encontrar soluciones

    • Trabaja con otros para encontrar ideas que apoyen a las familias. Por ejemplo:
      • Recaudar fondos para boletos de avi贸n para que los ni帽os puedan visitar a sus seres queridos en M茅xico.
      • Crear un grupo de apoyo para ni帽os que est茅n pasando por lo mismo.
  6. Mantenerse fuertes juntos

    • Las familias pueden ser poderosas incluso cuando est谩n separadas. Ap贸yense mutuamente, recu茅rdense que no est谩n solos y mant茅nganse enfocados en el amor que los conecta.

Un mensaje de esperanza

Aunque esto pueda parecer lo m谩s dif铆cil en este momento, recuerda que no est谩s indefenso. Manteni茅ndote en contacto, aprendiendo y buscando maneras de ayudar a otros, est谩s demostrando una fuerza incre铆ble. Las familias pueden superar tiempos dif铆ciles, y el amor puede crecer a煤n m谩s fuerte a trav茅s de las distancias. Lo que m谩s importa es no rendirse.



Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Beware: The Dark Side of All-Inclusive Resorts – NDAs Before Medical Help?"

 

All-inclusive resorts are often marketed as dream destinations where everything is taken care of—luxury accommodations, endless buffets, and entertainment. But sometimes, the reality can be far from the picture-perfect advertisements. Recent reports from travelers visiting Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, owned by Blue Diamond Resorts and part of Marriott's "Autograph Collection," have revealed a troubling practice that every traveler should know about.

The Allegation: NDAs Before Medical Assistance

Several guests have reported being asked to sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) before resort staff would call for medical assistance during emergencies. This is not only unethical but also incredibly alarming. It places vulnerable travelers in a position where they must prioritize immediate medical help over their right to share their experiences publicly.

Imagine being in a medical emergency—perhaps food poisoning, a severe allergic reaction, or an accident—and being told that help won’t arrive unless you sign away your rights to speak about what happened. This practice seems to prioritize protecting the resort's reputation over guest safety, which is both morally wrong and potentially illegal in some jurisdictions.


Why I Avoid All-Inclusives

I want to start by saying that I have never stayed in an all-inclusive resort—and never would. Over the past 30+ years, I’ve found so much more joy in staying at small posadas and family owned hotels where I can mix with locals and experience the culture of the area. Even in Cancun, I’ve always chosen smaller accommodations where the people are kind and genuinely care about their guests.

This approach has allowed me to enjoy authentic experiences, meet incredible people, and avoid the corporate, one-size-fits-all vibe of massive resorts. Hearing stories like this one about NDAs only strengthens my resolve to stay far away from these operations.

Why This Matters

1. Guest Safety Should Come First

Hotels and resorts have a duty of care to ensure the safety and well-being of their guests. Delaying medical care to coerce an NDA signature is a breach of this responsibility.

2. Transparency and Accountability

NDAs are often used to silence victims and prevent stories of negligence from reaching the public. This lack of transparency can perpetuate dangerous conditions for future guests.

3. Corporate Responsibility

While the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun is independently owned, its affiliation with Marriott through the "Autograph Collection" raises questions about corporate oversight. Marriott must address whether this practice aligns with its brand values and commitment to guest safety.


What You Can Do to Protect Yourself

1. Research Before Booking

Look up recent guest reviews and complaints about the resort. Platforms like TripAdvisor, Reddit, and other travel forums can be valuable resources.

2. Ask Questions

Before your trip, contact the resort to inquire about their policies regarding medical emergencies. A lack of clear answers can be a red flag.

3. Know Your Rights

Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs. In many countries, refusing medical assistance or delaying it could be grounds for legal action.

4. Travel Insurance

Always invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. This gives you the option to bypass resort services altogether if you face a similar situation.

5. Spread Awareness

Share this information with others planning trips to Cancun or similar destinations. By staying informed, travelers can make safer choices.


Demand Change

If you or someone you know has been affected by this practice, consider reporting it to:

Local Mexican authorities

The Canadian or U.S. consulate (depending on your nationality)

Marriott's corporate headquarters

Consumer protection organizations and travel watchdog groups

Final Thoughts

Traveling should be a joyous experience, not one fraught with fear and exploitation. It’s unacceptable for resorts to prioritize their image over the health and safety of their guests. By spreading the word and holding these companies accountable, we can push for a travel industry that truly puts people first.


Let’s take a stand together. If you’ve experienced something similar, feel free to share your story. Together, we can make a difference.