“Las Amazonas de Yaxunah” is a 52-minute film produced by ESPN Deportes and narrated by Yalitza Aparicio, whose portrayal of a housekeeper in the 2018 drama “Roma” made her the first Indigenous American woman ever nominated for the best actress Academy Award.

“Las Amazonas” was produced in conjunction with the 20th anniversary of ESPN Deportes and will be shown on the network during Hispanic Heritage Month in the United States, which runs from September 15 to October 15.

The Maya women’s softball team breaking stereotypes in huipiles

The ESPN documentary follows the women’s softball team Las Amazonas de Yaxunah, whose players compete in traditional Maya dresses known as huipiles and don’t wear any shoes. Yaxunah is a village of fewer than 800 people in the southern Mexican state of Yucatán, not far from Chichén Itzá.

One of the major themes in the film is how the players have had to break stereotypes about women competing in sports, especially in an insular Indigenous community where feminism doesn’t exactly flourish.

When they first began playing six years ago, they were criticized for playing sports in the first place. Before that, there were no women’s softball teams in the Yaxunah area, and now there are four.

Their team nickname, the Amazonas, alludes to the legendary women warriors known as the Amazons.

“If it were up to the chauvinists in our village, women would spend their lives slaving away with chores at home, caring for the children and working on the farm,” pitcher María Enedina Canul Poot told Mexico News Daily last year. “Sport was a no-go for women, but we had enough, and decided to tell our husbands, fathers and brothers that we would play whether they approved or not.”

A founder fed up with machismo

Still an active player in her mid-50s, María was the main founder of the team, which includes players from 14 to 63. As a child, she used to sneak out of her home to play baseball with the boys.

When local officials wanted to start a Zumba exercise class to help women get in better shape, María had other ideas — and the softball team was born. Within a few years, there was even a state tournament for women’s softball.

A viral video of the women in action led to invitations to play exhibition games across Mexico, and last year, the Amazonas’ profile rose even more when they beat a local squad 22-3 in an exhibition game at Phoenix’s Chase Field, the ballpark of the Arizona Diamondbacks of Major League Baseball. Later, one of their players threw the ceremonial first pitch before a Diamondbacks game against the San Francisco Giants.

The synopsis of the film on the L.A. Latino film fest website says, “In a small Mayan village in the heart of the Yucatán jungle in México, a group of women began playing [softball] with a makeshift bat carved out of a tree branch.”

It continues: “What ensued was a fight against sexism that would change their lives. Playing barefoot and in traditional Mayan dresses due to lack of resources, Las Amazonas became a traveling softball team that both challenged cultural norms and brought a new generation closer to their Mayan traditions. The documentary captures their trips across Mexico and their continued fight for equality in their town.”

A trailer of the film, directed by U.S.-based filmmaker Alfonso Algara, is available for free online.

With reports from La Jornada Maya, ESPN and Los Angeles Times en Español

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No matter the setting and no matter the audience, Luis Miguel has stayed relevant to every Latin generation — and in many music genres — since he began his career in 1982. From pop to jazz to boleros and, of course, mariachi, Luis Miguel, 54, has secured hits in every single genre. 

I mean, is there anything he can’t sing? 

A versatile and prolific career 

With a voice that spans three octaves (comparable to Freddie Mercury), Billboard has named him “one of the top voices of our generation.” 

On tour since last year (including the United States) despite not having released a single album in seven years, Luis Miguel kicked off 2024 with the No.3 spot on the first LIVE75 chart of the year. By the second issue, Luis Miguel moved to No. 1 based on a 17-show ticket average of 20,808 per night. 

With those numbers, “El Sol de México,” (The Mexican Sun) surpassed singers like Madonna (13,880) and U2 (16,585). Moreover, Luis Miguel’s México Por Siempre Tour (2018-19) was the highest-grossing Latin tour in Boxscore history until Bad Bunny and Daddy Yankee in 2022. 

He became the youngest artist ever to win a Grammy at age 14, for his duet “Me Gustas Tal y Como Eres” with Sheena Easton. He maintained this record until 1997 when LeAnn Rimes won the Grammy for Best New Artist (also aged 14). 

He has since won 5 more Grammys and over 100 national and international awards. He was also the only Hispanic artist invited to perform at Frank Sinatra’s 80th birthday celebration.

Furthermore, Luis Miguel has consistently made the Billboard Hot Latin Songs chart since his debut in 1987 with the hit “Ahora Te Puedes Marchar.” Since then, he’s scored 15 more No. 1s, including “Tengo Todo Excepto a Ti” and “La Media Vuelta.” He’s also the artist with the most entries among Latin pop acts on Hot Latin Songs, with 58. 

But despite his massive fame, “LuisMi” is incredibly reclusive.

A tumultuous personal life 

Over his career, he has granted only a handful of interviews, always being careful around sensitive subjects like his paternity of model Michelle Salas, 35 – which he only acknowledged when she turned 18, the disappearance of his mother, or his true birthplace, which turns out, is not Mexico (although has since naturalized as a Mexican).

Born in 1970 in Puerto Rico to Spanish singer Luisito Rey and Italian mother Marcela Basteri, the family moved to Mexico City in the late 70s due to Luisito’s music career. But when Luisito discovered his son’s talent, he set aside his career to focus on Luis Miguel. 

This is vividly portrayed in the first episode of Luis Miguel La Serie, a three-part Netflix biopic released in 2018. Reportedly, deeply private Luis Miguel only agreed to the series to settle a multi-million-dollar debt.

Showing his many romances (including his relationship with Mariah Carey) and a highly vulnerable LuisMi amidst a dramatic family life and a controlling and dominant father, the series satisfied Mexican fans’ curiosity over Luis Miguel’s life — and made them (us) love him even more. 

It also brought the Sun back to the center of the universe.  

A resounding success, the series revived Luis Miguel’s dormant career after years of absence and questionable concerts during which he appeared drunk or unable to properly sing (something that the series helped us all forgive him for). With the release of Season 1, Spotify reported that “Culpable O No” was the second most played song in Mexico. Moreover, plays of Luis Miguel’s music soared by 200% in the weeks after the series premiered. 

But with 34 albums in total, we must acknowledge the hidden heroes behind Luis Miguel’s successful career. After all, he sings songs other people write. 

A revival of romantic Latin music

Not much of a songwriter himself, Luis Miguel has collaborated with many talented Latin songwriters and musicians. One of the most famous collaborations was with Mexican Armando Manzanero, who died aged 85 during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Composers of some of the most iconic songs of Latin America, Manzanero and Luis Miguel worked together on four albums. These were: “Romance” (LuisMi’s first Gold Album in the US) “Segundo Romance,” “Romances” and “Mis Romances.” Each album included songs written by Manzanero, including “Somos Novios” or “No Sé Tú.” 

Thanks to these albums, Luis Miguel turned the world’s attention to Latin romantic music, including the world-wide famous “Bésame Mucho.”

Bésame Mucho is indisputably one of Latin America’s most famous songs, written by Mexican songwriter Consuelito Velásquez in 1932. Luis Miguel’s interpretation of the song is one of the most recognized worldwide.

Another blast from the past was “Solamente Una Vez,” by one of Mexico’s most famous songwriters, Agustín Lara.

Thanks to the Netflix series, we learned that Dominican bachata songwriter and superstar Juan Luis Guerra wrote the romantic ballad “Hasta Que Me Olvides.” This song has even become a trend on TikTok, where users pick Luis Miguel as their ultimate favorite singer with the song as the soundtrack.  

Other songwriters included Francisco Céspedes, Jorge Alfredo Jiménez, María Grever and Roberto Cantoral, amongst others. 

As for musicians, one that stands out is Kiko Gibrán, Luis Miguel’s loyal guitarist and Mexican music producer who has collaborated with the artist since the ‘90s.

With an array of Hispanic and Latin collaborators and never having ventured into the US market to increase sales, Luis Miguel is one of the best-selling and most loved Latin singers of all time — and, as you could probably tell, my favorite. 

Gabriela Solis is a Mexican lawyer turned full-time writer. She was born and raised in Guadalajara and covers business, culture, lifestyle and travel for Mexico News Daily. You can follow her lifestyle blog Dunas y Palmeras.

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In our exploration of aroma, we’ll take a journey through time, touching upon the realms of the divine, the agricultural, and the historical, as we explore the fragrant ingredients native to Mexico and the key events that characterize the nation’s often-overlooked story of scent. 

Scent and Spirituality Among the Maya and Aztecs

We begin in Ancient Mesoamerica, among the Classic Maya and Aztec populations. Scent was closely associated with spiritual beliefs and practices, symbolizing the connection between the physical world and the supernatural realm. In a 1992 study of native peoples of Mesoamerica, anthropologist Jane Hill identified the widespread concept of a floral paradise present among Mesoamerican belief systems — a place of both ancestral origin and return. The paradisiacal afterlife is closely linked to the concept of the “breath soul”, symbolized by flowers or jade and believed to carry ethereal qualities such as life force, spirituality, and communication with the divine. 

Though Mesoamerican cultures did not use the types of alcohol-based distilled perfumes we’re familiar with today, nobles likely used waters perfumed with soaked and pressed extracts of flowers or plants for personal hygiene, and as symbols of prestige and status. These types of perfumes were also used to treat the bodies of deceased Maya nobles, purifying them and staving off the odors of decomposition. Cinnabar and copal resin have been found in the funerary sites of Mayan royalty. 

Aromas to Satiate the Gods

Aromatic smoke from offerings played a significant role in Mexica belief, attracting and “feeding” the gods. Rather than eating actual food, Maya spirits and deities are believed to consume the aroma of food, flowers, incense, or blood. Anthropologist Miguel Aguilera notes that contemporary Yucatec beliefs hold that the ancient ancestors, known as the hach uchben Maya, did not labor in the fields for maize but instead subsisted on the scent of flowers. Breath or wind, he explains, is not only the sustenance of gods and ancestors but also embodies their spiritual essence, akin to the fragrance of flowers and incense. Copal, in particular, was known as the “food of the gods,” though certain deities were believed to have preferences for specific scents.

It’s fitting that the Latin etymology per fumum at the root of the word “perfume” literally translates to “through smoke.” Burning copal incense and other aromatic plants like tobacco was a central part of making offerings and appeasing the gods, particularly for deities associated with rain, vegetation, and fertility. The aromas were believed to attract the gods and signify veneration. Depictions in codices show flowing elements and glyphs representing the aromas emanating from offerings of flowers and other sacred items. Both nobles and commoners likely burned copal and other aromatics daily in home rituals.

Spanish “Cologne-ization”

The Spanish conquest of Mexico during the 16th century led to the discovery of new aromatic plants and flowers in Mexico, which were then introduced to Europe. These included vanilla and cacao, which were incorporated into perfumery and significantly expanded the palette of scents available to perfumers. Conversely, the Spanish also introduced European aromatic plants and practices to Mexico. This cross-cultural exchange resulted in a rich fusion of fragrances and practices, shaping the evolution of perfumery in both regions.

Franciscan friars, in particular, sent to convert the Indigenous populations to Christianity during the 1500s, were asked by the queen of Spain to collect flowers, herbs, and exotic plants from their station on the Yucatan peninsula. The friars developed a catalog of unique scents and flora, the emulsions of which were exported to Spain for use in perfumes for almost 300 years.

Mexico City’s Street of Scents

A street in Mexico City’s historical center provides clues to the evolution of scent, ingredients, and perfume-selling in Mexico and beyond. Aptly nicknamed “La Calle de Los Perfumes,” Calle Tacuba is lined with shops offering everything from original proprietary blends to copies of famous colognes. Many of the shops also carry individual emulsions of ingredients, allowing you to create your custom blends of perfumes at an inexpensive cost. 

During the Spanish colonial era, Calle Tacuba was known as one of the central commercial areas of the city, where Spanish settlers brought with them perfumes and fragrances from Europe, which were highly valued commodities among the colonial elite.

Today, the street also hosts a relative newcomer to the area- the beautifully curated Museum of Perfume (MUPE), housed in a stately 19th-century mansion. The space aims to educate visitors on everything from the history of perfume-making to the origins of global ingredients, and stories of famous perfumes and perfume-makers from all over the world. Also on display at the MUPE is an extensive collection of packaging and bottles from hundreds of luxury brands, from Balenciaga to Chanel, Moschino to Zegna. Through workshops, lectures, and interactive displays, MUPE fosters a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between scent and society.

The Eau-So-Unique Ingredients of Mexico

Mexican perfumery traditionally utilizes a wide array of native scent ingredients, which are still in use today, albeit in a more modern context. The country’s biodiverse ingredients are sought after for their high quality and richness and are exported worldwide for use in the global perfume industry. The earthy aroma of copal, the tree resin used in spiritual rituals and as an insect repellent, is deeply ingrained in Mexican traditional and modern culture. The citrusy fragrance of cempasúchil, or marigold, is a staple on altars during the Day of the Dead celebrations, symbolizing the Mexican belief in the cycle of life and death. The sweet, warm scent of vanilla, originally cultivated by the Totonac people, is globally recognized and is frequently used as a base note in many fragrances. Cacao, the primary ingredient in chocolate, provides a robust aroma and is used in food, beverages, and aromatic blends. Another ingredient is the Yucatan honey, which lends a sweet, floral note to perfumes. Mexican lime, with its fresh and zesty scent, is often used as a top note in fragrances. The native Damiana flower, known for its strong and spicy aroma, is also used. 

The Next Chapter: Mexican Perfumers on the World Stage

Competing on the world stage today, a handful of contemporary Mexican luxury brands are capturing the attention of discerning noses worldwide, bringing Mexican flair, distinctive ingredients, and artisanal talent to the forefront. Coqui Coqui, Arquiste and XINU perfumes are headlining the next chapter in Mexico’s aromatic anthology, in which their perfumers blend traditional Mexican ingredients with other exotic scents to create unique and complex fragrances. 

The founders of the brands weave Mexican history and storytelling into the fabric of contemporary Mexican culture to bring novel stories and aromas to international consumers. These and other emerging brands are the unseen olfactory threads that bind the past to the present, the spiritual to the sensory, creating a unique tapestry that is as vibrant as Mexico itself.

Monica Belot is a writer, researcher, strategist and adjunct professor at Parsons School of Design in New York City, where she teaches in the Strategic Design & Management Program. Splitting her time between NYC and Mexico City, where she resides with her naughty silver labrador puppy Atlas, Monica writes about topics spanning everything from the human experience to travel and design research. Follow her varied scribbles on Medium at https://medium.com/@monicabelot.

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A native of Guerrero on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Ornelas shared a video of herself surfing with an embroidered shirt and a purple skirt.

@pattoornelasRepresentado mi cultura con mucho orgullo y amor en lo que mas me apasiona. Ser mexicana me enorgullece y me hace sentir muy privilegiada de aver nacido en estas tierras Compartiendo mi cultura para un proyecto que nacio en Phippines perlas del mar Gracias por filmar @Elise Laine . . . . . #surfing #culturamexicana #mujeresqueinspiran #traditional #surflongboardclassic #oceanos #mexico #videoviral #reelsinstagram

♬ Timopoderoso Tlamanca Zautla pue – Mi timo poderoso

With over 4 million views on social media platform TikTok, more than 400,000 likes and over 4,200 comments, Ornelas’ video has gone viral.

“Being Mexican makes me proud and makes me feel very privileged to have been born in these lands,” Ornelas wrote in the video’s caption, adding that she represents her culture “with great pride and love” as a passionate surfer. Indeed, most of Ornelas’ videos on her social media accounts feature her surfing. Other videos also show her young daughter Leah following in her footsteps.

However, her use of the traditional huipil is not the first time the Mexican surfer has honored culture through her favorite sport. In November, she dressed up as La Catrina to celebrate Día de Muertos or Day of the Dead. Wearing a black bodysuit with a white skeleton print and an elaborate headband with flowers, Ornelas is seen skillfully surfing the waves.

Patty Ornelas, a “pearl of the sea”

Ornelas shared that the video is part of a project that started in the Philippines called “Pearls of the Sea,” a portrait series by artist Archie Geotina.

While she didn’t give further details about the project, we did a bit of research to find out more.

“Pearls started in a daydream inspired by women, our culture and our relationship with mother nature as we dance and play on her ocean’s faces,” the project’s website reads. “We are born of stardust and molded by the sea.”

Geotina’s project features portraits of women from around the world surfing in traditional clothes. Released in 2021 in the Philippines, it invites viewers to “immerse themselves in the strength, beauty and fierceness of women.”

Recently, other Mexican women have also gone viral for practicing sports in their traditional clothes, like the Mexican Rarámuri runners or the Yucatán’s women’s softball team.

With reports from Latinus

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Slowmading is a deliberate and conscious approach to the digital nomad lifestyle. It offers a wealth of advantages that can significantly enhance both professional success and personal fulfillment. In a world often characterized by speed and constant motion, embracing the principles of slowmading can lead to a more meaningful and enriching existence during your travels, focusing on what my favorite jazz musician says is, at the end of the day, the only thing.

Why choose the slomad lifestyle?

Forge connections

One of the most significant benefits of slowmading is the opportunity to forge deeper connections with the places digital nomads visit. Instead of rushing from one location to the next in a whirlwind of activity, slowmads take the time to truly immerse themselves in the local culture, customs and way of life. This deeper engagement allows for a more authentic and profound travel experience, fostering a sense of belonging and connection that transcends mere tourism. By building relationships with locals, participating in community events and exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, slowmads gain a richer understanding of the world around them.

Enjoy a work-life balance

Moreover, embracing a slower pace enables digital nomads to establish a more sustainable work-life balance. In a culture that often glorifies hustle and productivity, slowmading prioritizes well-being and fulfillment over constant busyness. By allowing themselves the luxury of time, slowmads can pursue activities that nourish their souls, whether it’s practicing yoga, hiking in nature or trying out a new recipe shared with friends. This intentional focus on self-care and relaxation not only reduces stress and burnout but also enhances overall happiness and satisfaction with the nomadic lifestyle.

“Life is very short and anxious for those who forget the past, neglect the present and fear the future,” claimed Roman philosopher Seneca. This is another no-nonsense quote that reminds me of the travelers who schedule their journey down to the half hour time blocks. I’d like to make the argument to schedule with day blocks instead. Slowing down encourages digital nomads to cultivate a deeper sense of presence and mindfulness in their daily lives. Instead of constantly living in the future, chasing the next destination or project, slowmads learn to appreciate the beauty and richness of the present moment. This mindfulness not only enhances their enjoyment of life but also fosters greater resilience and emotional well-being in the face of challenges.

Which cities are best for slomads?

Mexico offers a myriad of towns that are ideal for embracing the slowmad lifestyle, each with its own unique charm and character. One such gem is San Miguel de Allende, known for its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture and vibrant art scene. Here, digital nomads can immerse themselves in the local culture and connect with fellow travelers and expats.

Mazatlán beckons slowmads with its tranquil beaches and rich cultural heritage. Nestled on Mexico’s Pacific coast, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Here, slowmads can be immersed in local life, savor fresh seafood and unwind amidst breathtaking sunsets.

Another enchanting destination is Tulum, famous for its pristine beaches and ancient ruins. Surrounded by lush jungle and crystal-clear waters, Tulum offers the perfect backdrop for relaxation and introspection. Digital nomads can indulge in healthy cuisine, go for a dip in a cenote and make some new friends on a beach-side coworking spot.

For those seeking a quieter retreat, Valle de Bravo provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Nestled amidst pine forests and overlooking a picturesque lake, Valle de Bravo offers opportunities for hiking, sailing and birdwatching. Here, digital nomads can recharge their batteries and reconnect with nature in a serene and peaceful setting.

Remember to take your time and have fun!

No matter where you choose, Mexico offers endless possibilities for embracing the slowmading lifestyle and experiencing the beauty of life at a leisurely pace. Instead of trying to pack your itinerary to the brim, ask yourself: why am I traveling? What do I want to achieve? Travel like a stoic, with a deliberate tempo. “Nothing great is created suddenly, any more than a bunch of grapes or a fig,” said the Greek philosopher Epictetus. “If you tell me that you desire a fig, I answer you that there must be time. Let it first blossom, then bear fruit, then ripen.”

Stephen Randall has lived in Mexico since 2018 by way of Kentucky, and before that, Germany. He’s an enthusiastic amateur chef who takes inspiration from many different cuisines, with favorites including Mexican and Mediterranean.

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During a ceremony held in Mexico City on May 14, Michelin unveiled Stars for 18 restaurants across Mexico, including 2 two-star and 16 one-star ratings. The storied guide also awarded 6 Green Stars and 42 Bib Gourmands.

The restaurants in the Michelin Guide Mexico 2024 are located in Mexico City, Quintana Roo, Oaxaca, Baja California, Baja California Sur and Nuevo León. 

First published in France in 1900 by the Michelin tire company to incentivize motorists to use their tires, the Michelin guide has become the most famous restaurant ranking in the world — and the most coveted recognition by restaurateurs.  

From taquerías to family-run restaurants and high-end dining, here are the Mexican restaurants that hold one or two Michelin Stars in 2024.  

Two Michelin Stars

According to the Michelin Guide, restaurants with two Michelin Stars reflect in their expertly crafted dishes the personality and talent of the chef; with food that is inspired and refined.

Quintonil

Newton 55, Polanco, Mexico City 

Located in the heart of Polanco, Quintonil stood out to Michelin for its “enticing melding of excellent local product, impressive execution and great creativity to produce refined compositions,” the guide explains. 

The restaurant is named after a native herb of the state of Oaxaca. 

Owned by Chef Jorge Vallejo and his wife Alejandra Flores, the tasting menu is constantly evolving. The dishes praised by the guide include crab and shards of blue corn tostada with a vivid pipián verde, and a crème fraîche sorbet with caviar and Melipona honey. 

Pujol

Tennyson 133, Polanco, Mexico City 

Owned by Chef Enrique Olvera, Pujol has long stood as one of Mexico’s most acclaimed restaurants. 

The restaurant is mostly famous for its mole madre (mother mole) dish, which consists of two circles of sauce placed in the middle of a circular plate. The small one, at the center, is a deep orange color. The large one, which surrounds the middle one, is almost black in color and has been cooked for years. Diners are informed of the exact number of days the mole has been cooking before tasting it.  

The mole madre is the star dish of Pujol’s seven-course tasting menu. For the Michelin guide, the dish represents “an effort like no other that celebrates Mexican history and cuisine in the most profound way.” 

One Michelin Star

The one-star distinction is awarded to restaurants where dishes are prepared to a consistently high standard with distinct flavors using top-quality ingredients, the guide explains.  

Here is the complete list of restaurants with one Michelin Star in Mexico: 

Mexico City

Sud 777 

Esquina Común 

Rosetta 

Taquería El Califa de León

EM 

Oaxaca

Levadura de Olla Restaurante

Los Danzantes 

Baja California Sur

Cocina de Autor Los Cabos

Baja California

Animalón

Conchas de Piedra

Damiana

Quintana Roo

Le Chique

HA’

Cocina de Autor Riviera Maya

Nuevo León

Pangea

Koli Cocina de Origen

Mexico News Daily

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After hosting the World Cup in 1970 and advancing to the quarter-finals for the first time in its history, Mexico established itself as a respected football country on a global stage. It was the first World Cup televised in color, which ended with Pelé winning his last trophy for Brazil, who was carried from Mexico’s famous Azteca Stadium. 

Mexico’s reputation continued to grow, becoming a powerhouse in the North American CONCACAF region and consistently qualifying for World Cups. The country also hosted another tournament in 1986, best remembered for the audacious piece of cheating that was Diego Maradonna’s infamous “Hand of God.” Mexico’s second quarter-final appearance was a highlight for home fans. 

But with Mexico’s solidified football reputation came invitations to participate in other tournaments, like South America’s prestigious Copa América. 

Although it’s been eight years since Mexico last participated in this competition, performing well at the Copa América this summer could be the boost El Tri needs leading into the 2026 World Cup.

Mexico’s history in the Copa América

Since 1993, Mexico has been regularly invited to participate in the Copa América. In that time, they’ve gone head-to-head with some of the best players in history, including Lionel Messi, Neymar, Ronaldinho, and Diego Forlán.

But Mexico held its own. They even made the finals against Argentina in their first ever Copa América appearance. El Tri collected another second-place result in 2001, and a handful of third-place finishes in 1997, 1999, and 2007. 

The 1990s and early 2000s were a notable era in Mexican football. It featured legendary players like Luis Hernández, Cuauhtémoc Blanco, Hugo Sánchez, and Rafa Marquez. Naturally, playing against stellar football nations like Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay, helped Mexico climb the world rankings. 

Six months prior to competing in the 1993 Copa América, FIFA ranked El Tri as the 25th-best team. However, by May 2006, Mexico reached an impressive 4th place ranking going into that summer’s World Cup. They were even positioned ahead of European powerhouses Italy, France, and Germany. 

Notable Mexican players and teams

After Mexico’s success in the 1990s and early 2000s came what many consider Mexico’s golden generation. With star players like Carlos Vela, Giovani dos Santos, Javier “Chicharito” Hernández, and Guillermo Ochoa, El Tri maintained its reputation as a top 15 footballing nation. 

Mexico enjoyed some memorable moments, including a handful of Gold Cup trophies and consistent round-of-16 finishes at the World Cup. The squad even won an Olympic gold medal at London 2012. Several players from Mexico’s golden generation also played at major European clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal, and Manchester United. 

Despite the great talent Mexico had they have failed to advance to the semi-finals of the Copa America since 2007. 

With that in mind, Mexico sent the strongest possible team to the 2016 Copa America. Though they made the quarter-finals, they were eliminated 7-0 by Chile. It is still regarded as their worst major tournament defeat in history.

What has happened since Mexico last entered the Copa América?

For those who follow Mexican soccer, it’s evident El Tri has underperformed lately.

Mexico did have one shining moment in the 2018 World Cup when they defeated reigning champions Germany 1-0 in the group stage of that tournament. Success has since been thin on the ground, however.

With the U.S. and Canada catching up to Mexico in the last twenty years, they’re no longer the kings of CONCACAF. Mexico hasn’t beaten the United States since 2019 — something inconceivable for Mexican fans just ten years ago. 

Eliminated in the group stage of the 2022 World Cup for the first time since 1986, Mexico are struggling. But the country has young talent that could turn things around in the coming years with young stars like Edson Álvarez, Jorge Sanchez, and Luis Chavez.

Rising stars like Santiago Giménez, bring more hope to Mexican fans. Giménez scored the last-minute goal to win Mexico the 2023 Gold Cup, and is having a great season for club Feyenoord in the Netherlands. There are also rumors he might sign for either Tottenham Hotspurs or AC Milan. 

Hopefully, Mexico’s new golden generation will mature this decade. A strong team going into this year’s Copa America would be a great step forward.

Predictions for the 2024 Copa América

Mexico has been drawn in Group B in this year’s Copa América, where they’ll face Ecuador, Venezuela, and dark horses Jamaica in a round-robin stage. If El Tri finish second in their group, they could face Lionel Messi and Argentina in the quarter-finals. 

With the Copa América kicking off this June, Mexico is in with a fair chance of securing first place. Jimmy Lozano, Mexico’s current team manager, just announced his final squad for the tournament — leaving out Hirving Lozano, Raul Jiménez, and Guillermo Ochoa to make room for younger players. It indicates that Mexico is serious about performing well and is willing to take risks to give new talent opportunities to grow on a major tournament stage. 

If the team can top Group B, they will avoid a potentially tricky meeting with Argentina in the next round. But with countries like the United States, Brazil, Colombia, and Uruguay also in the tournament, we’ll see how Mexico rises to the challenge. 

Ian Ostroff is an indie author, journalist, and copywriter from Montreal, Canada. You can find his work in various outlets, including Map Happy and The Suburban. When he’s not writing, you can find Ian at the gym, a café, or anywhere within Mexico visiting family and friends.

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Wellness these days is also associated with “good living,” “joyful living” and a sense of purpose. It has become a huge industry worldwide and is only growing. According to the Mexican National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), the growth in the wellness sector will be 13.3% per year until 2030. Chief amongst industry leaders are Mexican wellness coaches, who are spreading tips and explaining the science behind positive health.

One of the reasons for this predicted rise is the ever-growing cost of healthcare in the United States, Mexico’s neighbor. With healthcare and wellness practices available in Mexico on equal footing with what U.S. residents can get at home — but for a fraction of the cost and often without a wait — more people from the U.S. have been looking southward for their healthcare and wellness needs. According to the 2023 Global Wellness Economy Monitor, Mexico is among the top 20 countries in the world in the wellness industry, ranking No. 15. 

Wellness coaching is a wide-ranging field. According to the National Academy of Sports Medicine, “the skills of wellness coaches are focused in the established areas of nutrition, sleep, exercise and restorative practices, as well as emotional health, stress management, psychological recovery and mindset.”

Professionals in this field touch upon mental health, fitness, beauty, tourism, personal care, physical activity and training, traditional medicine and supplements and more. With this in mind, here are some of the best wellness coaches in Mexico who are not only specialists in their fields but can help you find a sense of health and well-being:

Functional Medicine

Dr. Alexander Krouham

 

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Functional medicine is closely linked to lifestyle, illness prevention and leading a joyful life. Mexico News Daily recently interviewed Dr. Alexander Krouham, a thought leader and influencer in functional medicine. 

Krouham switched from conventional medicine to functional medicine because he found that the conventional approach was not effectively helping his patients with chronic diseases. 

“Experts believe that 80% of today’s health problems are due to chronic degenerative diseases. And 80% of chronic degenerative diseases are lifestyle related,” he says. With thousands of followers and collaborations with well-known journalists, he has gained incredible reach, resonating with many individuals through his views, values, and medical methods.

Mental Health

Shulamit Graber 

 

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As a psychotherapist specializing in posttraumatic stress disorder and resilience, Graber also draws from her own traumatic abduction experience. 

She is an excellent communicator, with her podcasts and media contributions offering valuable insights linked to emotional intelligence, resilience and trauma treatment, the search for a life project, etc. Her empathy, charisma, and clarity can transform listeners’ complex emotional patterns into compassionate self-understanding. If setting boundaries is a challenge for you, Graber teaches how to do this in a humorous and engaging way.

Nutrition

Nathaly Marcus

 

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Nathaly Marcus is an expert in epigenetics and longevity. She blends biology, nutrition, and well-being in a fun and engaging manner. Whether through her own content or as a guest on other platforms, she shares the wonders and miracles of the mind and body. As one of the most popular Mexican wellness coaches online, her nutrition tips and tricks are well worth checking out.

Spirituality

Marco Antonio Karam

 

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Marco Antonio Karam, better known as Tony, is the founder of Casa Tibet de México. He has postgraduate qualifications in Buddhist psychology and philosophy from several universities in the United States, Asia and Europe. Karam is a fellow of the U.K.’s prestigious 21st Century Trust and a member of the Network for Western Buddhist Teachers under the guidance of the Dalai Lama. Furthermore, Tony is recognized for promoting Tibetan culture and Buddhism in the Spanish-speaking world. His reflections, conversations, and events offer perspectives and tools for appreciating life from within.

Medicine

Dr. Mauricio González

 

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Also known as Dr. Mau, Gonzaléz is a specialist in internal, emergency, and obesity medicine. Recognized as an influencer in medicine by media outlets like Newsweek in Spanish, he combines medical practice with educating the public about modern medicine through social media. Dr. Mau’s engaging content covers common products, myths, and good practices, offering valuable insights into the body and health.

Exercise and fitness

Alejandra Rubio Bracho

 

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Specializing in high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and functional training, Alejandra collaborates with a network of professionals to create digital content with various specialized training programs, including pilates, yoga, cycling, barre, and more. Her comprehensive approach to fitness, nutrition, and wellness has led to the success of her method, earning her invitations to take part in events including TED Talks.

How to identify professional wellness coaches

One of the most important factors to consider is professionalism. In today’s world, there is an abundance of information available, making it a challenge to discern reliable sources. Many influencers with large followings promote various topics without proper preparation, and having a large following does not necessarily equate to credibility.

It is essential to review the individual’s CV, qualifications, and professional background. While social media can offer entertaining content on topics with scientific value, it is crucial to conduct thorough research to ensure that you are selecting trustworthy options.

Are there any other Mexican wellness coaches that you would recommend?

Ana Paula de la Torre is a Mexican journalist and collaborator for various outlets including Milenio, Animal Político, Vice, Newsweek en Español, Televisa and Mexico News Daily.

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In late March, the Sipse news agency revealed that FIFA — soccer’s world governing body — was disappointed with the pace of the required stadium renovations. One source claimed Azteca was six months behind schedule, in part because Club América resisted changing stadiums mid-season.

This prompted speculation that Azteca Stadium could be replaced as a venue for the 2026 World Cup. The Cup will be hosted together by Mexico, the United States and Canada. 

Now, this week, a new controversy has burst into full view.

FIFA typically demands full control of all World Cup stadiums, and for the matches that Azteca Stadium will host, an agreement was signed granting that power. However, an association of 134 box seat owners are determined to maintain access to their seats, claiming contractual rights.

The dispute is rooted in how the stadium’s construction was financed back in the 1960s. The Associated Press reported this week that “boxes were sold to private investors for 115,000 pesos” (about US $9,000 at the time), “giving the owners rights to use them for 99 years. That included access to soccer matches, concerts and other events, including the 1970 and 1986 World Cups in Mexico.”

The box owners formed their association about nine months ago.

Association spokesman Roberto Ruano recalls that the box seats were not an issue during the 1970 World Cup and that FIFA allowed box owners full access during the 1986 World Cup. Although he expects FIFA to respect the contracts, the Mexican Soccer Federation (FMF) has stepped in to act as an intermediary. 

News magazine Proceso reported that former FMF president Justino Compean has been arranging compensatory payments to box owners that voluntarily cede control of their boxes. Ruano confirmed this but said that those owners are not members of his association.

Attorneys told Proceso that forcing box owners to cede their rights is illegal, but FIFA has been known to pressure host nations to bend their laws. In 2014, FIFA convinced Brazil to suspend a law prohibiting beer sales at stadiums, and the same thing occurred in 2022 in Dubai. 

When asked by the AP about the controversy, FIFA said: “Specific details on fan access and other match information will be announced in due course.”

The FMF declined to comment, while Grupo Televisa — the owner of Azteca Stadium through the public limited company Ollamani — said it could not discuss ongoing negotiations but expressed confidence that a satisfactory agreement would be reached.

With reports from El Financiero, Proceso and Associated Press

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The green flag symbolizing the start of these iconic competitions typically drops in Ensenada, hence the city’s nickname: the Desert Racing Capital of the World. Forty-nine of the previous Baja 500 races began in Ensenada. So will the 2024 version, which kicks off on June 1 and will feature an estimated 280 racers in 45 classes. Competitors have 20 hours to log an official finish in the 483.06-mile course. Misleadingly, it’s not always 500 miles exactly, as the course can vary from year to year.

What to know about this year’s race

The BFGoodrich Tires 56th SCORE Baja 500 officially happens from May 29 to June 2. The first day, however, is dedicated to technical inspections of participating vehicles and pre-race celebrations on Boulevard Costero in Ensenada. An estimated 50,000 people turn out to see the cars, trucks, motorcycles, quad bikes, UTVs, and other off-road racers. Local vendors and sponsors are also represented on the “Manufacturer’s Midway,” which is free to the public.

The next day, Saturday, June 1, the race begins on Boulevard Costero, with vehicles departing every 30 or 60 seconds, depending on the competition class. Although 20 hours are allotted to finish, the winners in each class will need only about half that time. The course is routed as a loop race, with the finish line also in Ensenada. After the clockwise-running race through a large swath of Baja California, an awards ceremony will be held at 12:30 p.m. on June 2 in the Cathedral Hall at the Riviera del Pacifico Cultural Center. It’s located on Boulevard Costero near the starting line.

The Baja 500 is the second of four races that comprise the SCORE (Southern California Off Road Enthusiasts) World Desert Championship series. The 37th San Felipe 250 was run in March and the 5th Baja 400 is scheduled for September, followed by the 57th running of the Baja 1000 in November. All are set on the Baja California peninsula.

The history of off-road racing in Baja California

The Baja 500 and Baja 1000 races weren’t originally organized by SCORE but run under the auspices of the National Off-Road Racing Association (NORRA). Founded in 1966 by Ed Pearlman, Don Francisco and other enthusiasts of the sport, NORRA’s first Baja 1000 was held in 1967, running from Tijuana to La Paz. Francisco, the mapper of the original course, was a veteran of the Carrera Panamericana, the notoriously dangerous highway race that spanned Mexico from north to south before being canceled in 1955. It has since been revived, safely. Francisco’s more rugged off-road Baja 1000 routing and the first Baja 500 in 1969 helped to set the template for Baja-style desert racing while connecting it to a national tradition. 

NORRA, however, was removed as the sponsoring body for these races by the Mexican government in 1972. The Baja Sports Committee organized the Baja 500 in 1973 before SCORE’s long-time owner Sal Fish and promoter and former world land speed record holder Mickey Thompson took over in 1974. The first race on July 26 of that year was won by a Hollywood stuntman named Bobby Ferro, who drove a VW Sandmaster open-wheel race car. But for legal reasons, the race wasn’t referred to as the Baja 500 again until 1991. In the public mind, though, it was never anything else. 

The Baja 500 and Baja 1000 races have long fascinated Hollywood movie stars and famous race car drivers. Steve McQueen, James Garner and Paul Newman each tackled the Baja 1000, the latter setting the record for oldest-ever competitor when he was 80. The Baja 500 hasn’t drawn as many actors as the Baja 1000, but it has always been considered a serious test by the pros on the IndyCar and NASCAR circuits. Indianapolis 500 winners Parnelli Jones, Rick Mears and Danny Sullivan also tested themselves in the Baja 500, with the former winning the overall title twice. So, too, did noted Nascar drivers like Jimmie Johnson and Robby Gordon. Gordon was the most successful to do so, winning the Baja 1000 three times and the Baja 500 on four occasions, most recently in 2013. That doubled the record set by father, Bob Gordon, who won the Baja 500 in 1980 and 1987.

The defending champion returns

The headliner for this year’s race is Bryce “Golden Boy” Menzies from Las Vegas. The 36-year-old is the defending SCORE series Trophy Truck title holder — he has 10 career victories in the Trophy Truck division — and the defending 2023 Baja 500 overall champion. He and his Menzies Motorsports Ford Raptor all-wheel drive truck are sure to be favorites again, although the estimated list of 260 entrants also includes racers from around the world, including countries as far-flung as Australia, Indonesia and Japan. Mexico will also be represented, of course, with Tijuana native and Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame member Eric Solorzano among those seeking to dethrone Menzies in 2024. 

The course map for this year’s race has been released. So Baja California locals and U.S. visitors who make the 80-mile journey from the border to Ensenada now know where the finish line will be: on Boulevard Costero, in the same place as the starting line. 

For those who’d like to monitor the upcoming race online, SCORE International tracks results on its website. Live coverage is also featured on SCORE’s YouTube and Facebook social media platforms, with a recap forthcoming in the monthly SCORE Journal Digital Magazine.

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

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