Yellow Umbrella Insider Scoop February

InsiderMatch Scoop Friday for Yellow Umbrella Events

At Yellow Umbrella Events, we don’t just book travel – we live and breathe Mexico’s all-inclusive resort scene. As your Mexico Event Insider, we stay in direct contact with resort teams to bring you exclusive, up-to-the-minute details you won’t find anywhere else.

Every Friday starting today (woop woop!) We’re sharing the Inside Scoop, from room renovations and new dining spots to must-know Mexico travel updates and everything in between. 

Be sure to save these posts, so that you can easily find the information you need when it matters most! 

✨ Here’s what’s new this week! ⬇️

Week 4

The Top 5 Most Instagrammable Resorts in Mexico

If you love breathtaking views and stunning backdrops, you’ll want to bookmark this list! The top-selling luxury travel agents for Mexico resorts (including yours truly!) recently voted for the Top 5 Most Instagrammable Resorts, and let’s just say, they did not disappoint:
 
Impression Isla Mujeres – A private island paradise with crystal-clear waters and dreamy beachfront views.
Impression Moxché – Modern luxury meets tropical elegance in this exclusive retreat.
Hotel Xcaret Mexico – Vibrant, lush, and packed with adventure, this eco-luxe resort is a true showstopper.
La Casa de La Playa – Ultra-luxurious and intimate, this boutique-style escape is pure indulgence.
Unico 20°87° – Sleek, chic, and beachfront-perfect, Unico 20°87° exudes effortless style.
Unico Pool photo. by Yellow Umbrella Events

Do You Need a Visa for Mexico? Let’s Set the Record Straight.

Lately, there have been misleading TikTok videos claiming that U.S. travelers now need a visa to vacation in Mexico. This is NOT true.
 
If you’re a U.S. citizen flying into Mexico for vacation, you only need a valid U.S. passport book just like before. No visa is required unless you plan to stay for more than 180 days. So, don’t fall for the misinformation! If you’re heading to Mexico for a getaway, just make sure your passport is up to date and you’re good to go.

Unico 2087’s "Superbia Summer" Returns!

If you love food, music, and an unforgettable summer experience, mark your calendars for Unico 2087’s Superbia Summer, happening July 15 – August 25, 2025.
This event brings together some of the best in the culinary and entertainment world, including:
✅ Award-winning guest chefs
✅ Well-known DJs
✅ Famous mixologists
✅ Live artist showcases
 
It’s the perfect time to visit if you want to add a little extra excitement to your summer vacation.

Other Resort Updates You Need to Know

✔️ Impressions Isla Mujeres now offers a beautiful palapa waiting area at the Hacienda del Mar Marina, where guests can enjoy light snacks before boarding their private catamaran transfer to the resort.
✔️ Cozumel Palace has fully reopened after a $15 million renovation, featuring an updated lobby, new walk-out suites, and refreshed pool areas.
✔️ Beach Palace in Cancun is set to close in September for a full renovation that is expected to last at least 6-8 months, so if you’re thinking of booking, now’s the time before they shut down for updates!
 
We’ll be back with more travel news next Monday! In the meantime, if you are planning a trip, we can help. Email us at info@yellowumbrellaevents.com or call us at 512-955-1320.

Week 1

Hotel Xcaret

If you’re heading to Hotel Xcaret Mexico, Las Cuevas now requires reservations for dinner! Plan ahead to secure your spot.

Visitax Update

Visitax is a tourist departure tax that has been in place for a couple of years but they have been lax about checking it until recently. Now, it is checked at the bottom of the escalator upon departure.
 
The tax is paid in advance of travel out of Quintana Roo (the Cancun & Tulum area) airports. The cost is 283MXN per person (appx $12USD) when paid in advance. However, the cost has increased by appx $2USD + an additional 16% tax if you get caught at the airport without it. If snagged in the airport, you’ll be charged on the spot with an SATQ agent via their hand held device (they are using iPads and a 3rd party payment platform).
 
Here is the ONLY true government link to pay. There are a ton of scam links so ONLY pay through this link.

Secrets Akumal

Physical key cards for your room are no longer needed as you can now access your room via the HIC app. We recommend downloading this app prior to arrival for ease. (And don’t worry – physical key cards are still available, if you prefer it.)
 
The new Greek Restaurant, Santorini is now fully open for PC (Preferred Club) guests only. 
Reservations are required and it’s tucked away on the terrace of Market Cafe.
 
Be careful of time share salespeople at this resort, as they are getting more aggressive and misleading, with one of our recent guests sharing with us that they were told they were “required” to attend a VIP Breakfast at check in. This is NEVER required and is a sales tactic. We’ve got more information on how to avoid falling for timeshare scams on our blog. 

Secrets Playa Blanca

The newest of the Secrets resort opened this past year and we’re happy to report that 100% of the spa and event areas are now fully open and operational – and absolutely stunning!

Hyatt Ziva Cancun

The new wine and tapas lounge, called “The Den”, and located across from the coffee shop is now open.
 
Also, there is a new room category for those who love the historic lighthouse at this resort. It’s called the oceanfront lighthouse suite and will be at the end of the pyramid building with a great ocean and lighthouse view.