- Updates from the Islands -

- - Mexico - -
(incl. Cozumel and Cancun)

• From: "mike, and chrissy hopson" <hotinplaya at playful.com>
• Date: Wed, 30 Nov 2005 21:36:58 -0500

3 hours and 28 minutes and its over!!!!!

What a ride!!!

put the last of my generator gas into my car today!!

Now maybe I can get a little sun in before the 24th of December (yes back to work)!!!

Merry Christmas to all  !!!!!!!

Sant .......  I mean Mike and Chrissy

• From: "Heidi" <Heidi at paamul.net>
• Date: Wed, 23 Nov 2005 01:18:04 -0600

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• From: "mike, and chrissy hopson" <hotinplaya at playful.com>
• Date: Fri, 18 Nov 2005 20:29:56 -0500

Definitly, did not expect to make postings concerning "3 storms this year" !!!!

Hopefully this one will be only a rain maker, and we do not loose power, so we can huddle on the coach and watch some movies, and anything else that comes up!!

saw this on another posting, found it interesting. comparision between Gilbert (1988) and Wilma

"was translated from spanish"

GILBERT

WILMA

Birth

  12 of September 1988

  17 of October 2005

Died

  316

  12

Losses

  880 mdp of those of before

  2100 mdp of those of now

Number of hurricane

  3º of the season

  21º of the season

Category

  5

  4

Winds

  280 ? 320 km/h

  250 km/h

Duration of whips

  8 hours

  36 hours

Diameter of the eye

  15 km

  65 km

Zone of influence

  250 km

  675 km

Evacuation of civil defense

  4 hours before

  3 days before

Evacuated tourists

  10,000 of Cancún

  34,000 of Cancún, the Mayan Riviera, Island Women, Cozumel

Percentage of damaged hotel infrastructure

  75%

  90%

Recovery of the tourism

  3 years

  4 months

Mike

• From: "mike, and chrissy hopson" <hotinplaya at playful.com>
• Date: Tue, 15 Nov 2005 16:46:40 -0500

Article about Cancun's rebuilding effort

http://www.mexiconews.com.mx/miami/15703.html

• From: frank reams <daleandfrank at yahoo.com>
• Date: Tue, 15 Nov 2005 18:31:50 GMT

• From: "Mark" <bossmann at home.nl>
• Date: Mon, 14 Nov 2005 21:19:54 +0100

The following bankaccount has been set up for donations:
When making donations inside Holland:
     Raborekening 1158.59.241
     T.a.v. Stichting geen stilte na de storm in Nunhem
From abroad use:
     NL83RABO.0.1158.59.241  (SWIFT code/account #)
     Att. Stichting geen stilte na de storm(after the rain 
     foundation)in Nunhem

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• From: Parts Expert <bmwrodd at earthlink.net>
• Date: Sat, 12 Nov 2005 12:50:26 -0700 (GMT-07:00)

HOLBOX AID PLEA

The small fishing village of ISLA HOLBOX, home to 1600 Mayan fishermen 
desperately needs your help.

Hurricane WILMA destroyed the island lashing it with 6 hours of 200 kph+ winds 
and a 9 foot sea & storm surge. The maximum elevation on this picturesque 
island is just 3 feet.

When the eye of Wilma left the Yucatan it passed by this tiny island on the 
northern tip near Cancun. In its wake it left 4-5 feet of SALT WATER in every 
house. EVERYTHING everyone owned is basically destroyed!

Further, there is NO ELECTRICITY 75% of the utility poles are down & twisted. 
The main waterline from the mainland 7 miles away is broken so there is NO 
WATER for cleaning, bathing etc. The towns Reverse Osmosis plants cannot 
produce Fresh Drinking/Cooking water without electricity.

The ultimate disaster is the ferry barge that brings EVERYTHING to the island 
including gasoline, diesel for the electric plant, food, supplies...everything. 
The only way anything is now getting to the island is by small boat & gasoline 
supplies are LOW!

The Mexican Government ran helicopters to the island one day last week with 
some food & water & some thin mattress pads. This happened coincidentally on 
the day Mexican President Fox & his wife dropped by with promises and a 
photo-op.

The MAIN PROBLEM for these proud people is this:

Hurricane Wilma devastated Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres and Puerto Morelos. 
These Tourist destinations normally supply 15 million $$$ of revenue PER DAY. 
The Mexican Government gets a nice cut of this $$$. Granted the Mexican 
Government needs to get this area back up & running ASAP as the High Tourist 
season is fast approaching.

SO WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR HOLBOX??

Well since there is NO FEMA in Mexico the islanders of HOLBOX will soon be 
forgotten like yesterdays old news, and left to fend for themselves.

They desperately need help NOW, TODAY, TOMMORROW, to rebuild their shattered 
lives. Many tiny beachfront hotels were completely destroyed, so what little 
tourism Holbox had is now gone. There will be few tourists' spending money in 
Holbox.

The islanders are slowly returning to what's left and are trying to 
pick-up-the-pieces. They need repairs on their boats so they can resume doing 
what they know best, fishing. They need new nets, repairs to the outboard 
motors, clothes, food, shoes, the basics simply to survive!

Can you PLEASE HELP the proud people of Isla Holbox.

Aid can now be forwarded directly to a bank account created by Holbox's Mayor, 
Gamaliel Zapata Moguel.

Please forward donations to:

Gamaliel Zapata Moguel, Banamex, Tizimin, Mexico - sucursal(branch) 4896, 
cuenta(account#): 25353, clabe(international routing): 002918489600253531
USA RELIEF EFFORT

Your Donation of $10,$25,$50,$100, or $500 would be greatly appreciated by 
these beautiful people.

100% of ALL Donations will go DIRECTLY to HOLBOX AID.

TravelYucatan.com's offices on the island of Holbox were badly damaged but we 
have insurance, the island people DO NOT! Our resident representative on 
Holbox, Mr. Rodrigo Sidney is coordinating RELIEF AID directly on the island at 
this moment.

A SPECIAL ACCOUNT has been created for this Relief Effort.

Please send all DONATIONS large or small to:

CARIBE TRADE RELIEF FUND
1627 Dale Douglas Dr
ElPaso TX 79936
915-590-0727
r00300 at hotmail.com

Thank You & God Bless You!

Mr. Rodrigo Sidney, is a long-time associate and owner of the building that 
houses our meager office on Holbox.

Mr. Sidney spends roughly a third of his time in Mexico and the remainder in 
Texas. He is married to a Mayan woman and has extended family in the Yucatan. 
He presently owns and operates Holbox Tours & Travel.
CANADA RELIEF EFFORT

Canadians wishing to contribute â??in any wayâ?? are encouraged to contact Paul 
â??Pabloâ?? Harding.

Paul has been traversing back and forth to the island for some 30 years now 
from his â??otherâ?? home in King City, Ontario Canada.

Paul is in constant communications with Holbox's Mayor, Gamaliel Zapata Moguel.

Paul can be reached at:

Paul Harding
pharding at timeslice.ca

 

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• From: frank dale <daleandfrank at yahoo.com>
• Date: Wed, 9 Nov 2005 13:27:25 -0800 (PST)

• From: Travelpirate2 at aol.com
• Date: Wed, 9 Nov 2005 12:12:07 EST

--- Begin Message ---

• From: Travelpirate2 at aol.com
• Date: Tue, 1 Nov 2005 10:11:27 EST

In a message dated 10/27/2005 3:06:45 PM Central Standard Time, Travelpirate2 writes: just had clients in that were stranded in the hurricane at the Iberostar Parasio Maya. They couldnt say enough about Iberostar and Apple. They were in the Sea Food restaurant at the Maya Thursday night to Sunday afternoon as their "shelter". They had 3 hot meals a day, all the water they wanted, and an attentant in the one bathroom cleaning 24 hrs a day. The Iberostar People went above and beyond. They stayed up on shifts all night to assist anyone that needed them.  The guests took it upon themselves to take up a collection of 6,000.00 as tips for the employees. They gave them the cushions from the pool and bedding to sleep on. When it was over they said they would have a show Monday night. When my clients saw the show area at the Lindo totally under water they thought no way. Four hours later the employees had it pumped out, sanitized, bars open and the show went on. The end beach units have sand up to the ceiling. Some of the other rooms had windows out and some water damage. Their room was undamaged and looked great. The palm trees on the beach were shorn off, or uprooted. The two restaurants by the pool lost their roofs again (if you recall same thing in July but were fixed in 6 weeks).   As far as Apple goes, the reps were great. They called the clients' room and told them they were going home the next morning at 9am. They again called at 4am and said be ready by 6am as you are on the 2nd flight home. All went like clock work. They said Apple was the only company with planes getting people out of there. They went to the street and flagged a cab who took them to his house and let them use his phone!!! They also went to Playa and 5th Ave shops are wiped out.  Other streets had shops opened already. My clients said they are going to write letters to Iberostar, Apple and anyone else to tell how well this was all handled. More updates will be sent as they become available. -- John Werner at mvptravel.com href="mailto:johnw at mvptravel.com">johnw at mvptravel.com   Spread The News! If you'd like to share these and other MAST news messages with the rest of your agency, we can send messages to them directly. Just let us know who should receive messages (full name) and their email address(es). We'll take care of the rest.   For more MAST information, news updates, and everything MAST, visit http://www.mvptravel.com/.

--- Begin Message ---

• From: Travelpirate2 at aol.com
• Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2005 16:06:45 EDT

--- Begin Message ---

• From: Rachel Shimkus <rachel at mvptravel.com>
• Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2005 13:35:01 -0500

Cancun Update 2:

 

Bahia Principe Tulum will be fully operational November 1 and ready to receive a group from KDM Travel on Nov 7.

 

Apple Vacations has been the first and only tour operator the past two days to operate charter flights from Cancun to get stranded passengers home. Yahoo News and MSN news are reporting that while thousands of Americans are still stranded in Cancun, the vacationers on vacation packages booked through travel agents are getting flights home. People who booked on their own are the ones still stranded. The good news in this story is that once again, ASTA's motto, "Without a travel agent, you're on your own" is playing out in Cancun.

 

Iberostars reports that all four of the Iberostar Paraiso properties will be closed for at least a month and the Iberostar Tucan and Quetzal will not be accepting new arrivals for approximately three weeks.

 

---

A report from Neelie Kruse, of Cary Travel Express:

I just had clients in that were stranded in the hurricane at the Iberostar Parasio Maya. They couldnt say enough about Iberostar and Apple. They were in the Sea Food restaurant at the Maya Thursday night to Sunday afternoon as their "shelter". They had 3 hot meals a day, all the water they wanted, and an attentant in the one bathroom cleaning 24 hrs a day. The Iberostar People went above and beyond. They stayed up on shifts all night to assist anyone that needed them.  The guests took it upon themselves to take up a collection of 6,000.00 as tips for the employees. They gave them the cushions from the pool and bedding to sleep on. When it was over they said they would have a show Monday night. When my clients saw the show area at the Lindo totally under water they thought no way. Four hours later the employees had it pumped out, sanitized, bars open and the show went on. The end beach units have sand up to the ceiling. Some of the other rooms had windows out and some water damage. Their room was undamaged and looked great. The palm trees on the beach were shorn off, or uprooted. The two restaurants by the pool lost their roofs again (if you recall same thing in July but were fixed in 6 weeks).  

As far as Apple goes, the reps were great. They called the clients' room and told them they were going home the next morning at 9am. They again called at 4am and said be ready by 6am as you are on the 2nd flight home. All went like clock work. They said Apple was the only company with planes getting people out of there.

They went to the street and flagged a cab who took them to his house and let them use his phone!!! They also went to Playa and 5th Ave shops are wiped out.  Other streets had shops opened already.

My clients said they are going to write letters to Iberostar, Apple and anyone else to tell how well this was all handled.

---

More updates will be sent as they become available.

-- John Werner

johnw at mvptravel.com

 

---

Spread The News!

If you'd like to share these and other MAST news messages with the rest of your agency, we can send messages to them directly. Just let us know who should receive messages (full name) and their email address(es). We'll take care of the rest.

 

For more MAST information, news updates, and everything MAST, visit www.mvptravel.com.

--- End Message ---

--- End Message ---

--- End Message ---

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Tue, 8 Nov 2005 12:34:59 -0500 (EST)

Latest from the Cozumel Tourism Promotion Board:

COZUMEL, MEXICO, REPORTS RAPID RECOVERY

COZUMEL, Mexico (Nov. 8, 2005) - Cozumel tourism officials report rapid
progress in the post-hurricane Wilma clean up and restoration effort on the
island.

According to Raul Marrufo, director of the Cozumel Tourism Promotion Board,
“Now that the essential services have been restored to most of the island,
we have shifted our focus to prepare the island for winter visitors.  We are
enthusiastic about our progress and look forward to a busy tourist season
starting in December.”

General information:
•       Electricity and water has been restored to 90 percent of the island
•       The Cozumel Airport officially reopened on October 29, 2005.
Mexicana Airlines is currently operating daily flights to Cozumel out of
Mexico City.  American Airlines will resume its Dallas-to-Cozumel flights on
December 16, 2005, operating three flights a week, and Continental has
resumed its Houston-to-Cozumel flights, operating three flights a week.
•       The first cruise ship is scheduled to arrive on November 14, 2005.
•       Several dive shops are open and operating
•       Officials from the Cozumel National Marine Park are optimistic and
report that many reefs along Cozumel are largely undamaged.  Shallow reefs,
up to 35 feet deep, were most impacted, while reefs found at greater depths
are reported to be in good condition.
•       Caverns, including Chankanaab Cavern, F1 Cavern and Aerolito Cavern
did not sustain damage and are open.
•       More than 30 island excursions have been available since October 31,
2005
•       95 percent of shops and restaurants will be open beginning November
14, 2005
•       The Cozumel Country Club will reopen the golf course, offering 9
holes, on December 1, 2005
•       The Atlantis Submarine attraction will reopen on December 15, 2005
•       Fiesta Holidays is open for snorkeling tours and car rentals

According to Aurelio Joaquin, director of the Foundation of Parks and
Museums of Cozumel, “Though the island’s parks have sustained some damage,
we are thankful that the ruins at San Gervasio were not harmed.  We have
already begun efforts to restore the parks and will have them ready for
visitors to enjoy by the winter travel season.”

•       The Museum of the Island of Cozumel is now open and fully
operational.
•       Punta Sur ecological park is currently open for jeep tours.
•       Reconstruction has started on Chankanaab National Park, with the
tentative opening date scheduled for December 20, 2005
•       The Mayan ruins at San Gervasio were not damaged and the
archaeological site will reopen on November 14, 2005.


According to Gabriela Verduzco, manager of the Cozumel Hotels Association,
“Several hotels have already returned to business as usual and many others
will reopen prior to the busy fall season.” The following is a list of
scheduled reopening dates for various Cozumel hotels and resorts. Some
properties are still in the assessment stage and have not yet reported
reopening dates.

Hotel                   Scheduled Opening Date
Casa del mar            December 15, 2005
Casa Mexicana   Open
Coral Princess          February 1, 2006
Cozumel Palace  Pending
Cozumel Resort  Open
Days Inn                Open
El Cozumeleño   Pending
El Cid la Ceiba November 15, 2005
Fiesta Americana        February 1, 2006
Flamingo                Open
Hacienda San Miguel     Pending
Iberostar               Pending
Melia Cozumel   December 23, 2005
Occidental Allegro      January 31, 2006
Occidental Grand        January 31, 2006
Park Royal              July 2006
Playa Azul              December 15, 2005
Presidente              May 2006
Reef Club               Pending
Scuba Club Cozumel      November 15, 2005
Sol Cabañas del Caribe  Pending
Suites Bahia            December 15, 2005
Suites Colonial December 15, 2005
Villablanca             November 15, 2005
Vista del Mar           Open

For additional information and updates about Cozumel hotels contact Gabriela
Verduzco directly at gabyverduzco at cozunet.com

For ongoing destination updates, travelers should visit
www.islacozumel.com.mx

# # #

• From: "Blue Angel Dive Shop - US Contact" <bluangel at fidmail.com>
• Date: Tue, 8 Nov 2005 10:05:16 -0600

BEGIN:VCARD
VERSION:2.1
N:Shop;Blue Angel
FN:Blue Angel Dive Shop
ORG:BLUE ANGEL DIVE SHOP
TEL;WORK;VOICE:52-987-872-1631
TEL;HOME;VOICE:52 987 872 1631
ADR;WORK;ENCODING=QUOTED-PRINTABLE:;;Beach front ocean view 2.3 km Costera Sur=0D=0A=0D=0A;Cozumel;Quintana Roo=
;77600
LABEL;WORK;ENCODING=QUOTED-PRINTABLE:Beach front ocean view 2.3 km Costera Sur=0D=0A=0D=0A=0D=0ACozumel, Quintana=
 Roo 77600
EMAIL;PREF;INTERNET:bluangel at fidmail.com
REV:20051108T160516Z
END:VCARD

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Mon, 7 Nov 2005 17:11:02 -0500 (EST)

Received from Ryan Collins...

*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert at vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/


---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Mon, 7 Nov 2005 14:29:02 -0500
From: Ryan Collins <rpcollins at gmail.com>
Subject: Wilma Pics

Hello,

I don't know if this is the correct email address to send these pics
to, but thought i would just send them in case people were interested.
 I noticed other people had sent their pics also.  All my pics are
located at:

http://pages.uindy.edu/~rpcollins/Wilma_pics/

these are pics taken at the shelter and after we returned to the
shelter.  we were staying at the royal sands, and were able to leave
on the 27th, of october.  again, don't know if it is any interest to
people, just thought i would pass along the pics of our experience.

thanks,

Ryan

• From: <gcnordyke at netscape.com>
• Date: Fri, 4 Nov 2005 10:53:59 -0800 (PST)

Hello Gert,

First timer on Storm Carib.

I received an email from Donna At Tiramisu Restaurant in Puerto Aventuras with a update

See Below............Thanks,Gary

**********************************************************************************

Hi Gary,




Hurricane Wilma Aftermath Update


Electricity has been restored in Puerto Aventuras.  Cancun, Cozumel and
Isla
Mujeres expect to have full services by the weekend.
Tomorrow, they expect to open the toll road between Cancun and Merida.
Condos are available for rent in Puerto Aventuras. Rosa Saucedo says she

had very little damage to her condos and has them available to rent at
some
good prices.  Contact Rosa at Blue Caribbean Rentals at (011 52 984 873
5137
or 5139)
Passed by Catalonia this morning.  The front entrance palapa is almost
completely rebuilt.  They will surely open soon.  Saw a couple of
employees
of Sunscape that said the opening is the first of December.  The Omni is

working on their palapa.
Glynna from Captain Rick's Fishing Center is up and running.  Lynne from

Aquanauts is Diving & Snorkeling.
Dolphin Discovery is open for business and has a new baby manatee as
well.
Yesterday in Playa, we stopped by the little french bakery Chez Nous in
front of Chedraui.  They are now open for business (and by the way, they

have some great tasting pastries!)
80% of the hotels in Playa are open and operating.  They expect that 75%
of
the hotels in Cancun will be available for December
Tiramisu is closed until Monday, November 7, 2005.  They started the
work of
replacing all of our roof tiles.  We wish them godspeed!
We are still taking reservations for an old fashioned American
Thanksgiving
with all the fixins.  Our full menu of lobsters & steaks & seafood &
fresh
pasta will also be available for those of you who would rather celebrate

without turkey.
More later...
Donna
Updated 10AM CST on Friday, 5 November 2005

• From: "Paul Harding" <pharding at timeslice.ca>
• Date: Thu, 3 Nov 2005 20:30:02 -0500

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Thu, 3 Nov 2005 15:10:58 -0500 (EST)

I got the following forwarded by Dan Schierman.

The attached Microsoft Excel spreadsheet shows damage reports, expected
opening dates of many hotels in the area.

You can click on a region and see what may have happened to your hotel of
choice.

Gert

*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert at vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/


Attachment:
Damage report wilma 2.1.xls

Description: Damage report wilma 2.1.xls

• From: "mike, and chrissy hopson" <hotinplaya at playful.com>
• Date: Wed, 02 Nov 2005 16:44:45 -0500

Make that "Carnival has arrived""

Several Cruise lines have begun diverting cruise from Cozumel to Playa Del Carmen, with the 1st one arriving today!!!

Playa Del Carmen's infrastructure is almost 100%, but we lack tourist in the hotels, these cruise ships will be a welcome addition for our area!!!

Since we have always lacked the cruise ship terminals, folks are being tendered in to docks, just like the old days!!

Playa is back and open for business,,,   pass the word , please

on another note, our kids school reopened today, wow, great to have the house back, even if its only for 6 hours

Mike and Chrissy

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Wed, 2 Nov 2005 11:54:29 -0500 (EST)

More pictures from Isla Holbox. Taken by Rodrigo Sidney whose own
beach-front home was severely damaged.  Forwarded to my by Ecovillage
Training Center <ecovillage at thefarm.org>

Rodrigo's caption: "Take A deep breath first"

*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert at vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/

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• From: hotinplaya at playful.com
• Date: Mon, 31 Oct 2005 06:47:11 -0700 (PST)

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Sun, 30 Oct 2005 14:15:32 -0500 (EST)

Some info pages on current situation in Cancun (incl. airport/hotel info):

http://cancun-airport.com/katrina.htm

http://www.mexican-embassy.dk/latest.htm

http://www.worryfreevacations.com/news/newsarticle.do;jsessionid=dvEP2PPt96je?newsArticleCode=2326

*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert at vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/

• From: Scott Frankenberger <dscottf at insightbb.com>
• Date: Sun, 30 Oct 2005 11:53:36 -0500

http://eczm.com/wilma/index.htm

scott in indiana

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Sat, 29 Oct 2005 13:08:04 -0400 (EDT)

Received from Jennie:
http://archives.subscribermail.com/msg/ROYA86D8B905.htm

Apparently they are reopening November 5 already!

*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert at vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/

• From: frank dale <daleandfrank at yahoo.com>
• Date: Sat, 29 Oct 2005 09:24:49 -0700 (PDT)

• From: "mike, and chrissy hopson" <hotinplaya at playful.com>
• Date: Sat, 29 Oct 2005 10:27:11 -0500

Playa Del Carmen is up and running!!!!

Probaly 80-90% of stores and restaurants are open, and many of the area hotels will be fully up and running next week, but very few folks remain to enjoy.

As others have posted, this area needs folks to return, if you had plans on visiting, please check with your hotel, if they are open, and you can get here, please come!!

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Fri, 28 Oct 2005 21:21:49 -0400 (EDT)

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Fri, 28 Oct 2005 18:40:46 EDT
From: SkiVerdad at aol.com
Subject: Re: CUN/COZ Airport - Now What?

It seems that the effects of this terrible storm will just never  end... As I
posted on 10/26, my Thursday Suncountry flight to Cancun was  canceled.  No,
Cancun airport arrivals would be allowed through  Monday. I have tried all
day, without success, to get a call through to  Suncountry for an update. A very
busy phone line.
    This afternoon, I received a call from a friend,  who has a home and
business in Cozumel with two  additional locations in Playa del Carmen and 
Cancun.
American Airlines  called canceling her November 20 flight to Cozumel and
they are not offering any  arrival fights until December 15. I have read similar
information from other airlines. The charter flights will surly be  following
soon.
    My friend and I both have homes, businesses and  employees in this area
who really need our help. The Riviera Maya is  recovering much faster than
Cancun. Many shops and hotels are now open for  business. Closing the airports 
for
6 weeks is going create an incredible burden  on what is now a very fragile
economy.
    Many local people are currently without  shelter, food/water, money and
now jobs. Is President Fox going to  evacuate his citizens to shelters inland -
as was the case with  Katrina? I don't see that happening but who knows, the
Mexican government has  performed fairly well so far with this crisis.
    At this point, the closing of commercial flights  into this region is a
big mystery. A lot of people including my friend and  myself need to come in to
begin the recovery process.  Everyone from  insurance adjusters, material
suppliers to medical personnel need access  but I was told no special exceptions
have been discussed.
    If anyone has any information or suggestions,  please share them, they
would be greatly appreciated.

____________________________________

AA.com
 Cancun, Mexico (CUN) - The airport and local travel center  are closed.
Access to the airport for departing  customers is only available by checking in 
at
a local school,  Colegio la Salle.
>From November 1 through December 14, two daily  flights from Cancun to
Dallas/Fort Worth will be  scheduled, as well as one daily flight from Cancun to
Miami. Another daily flight will be added for each of these routes from December
 15 through February 2, 2006.
Cozumel, Mexico (CZM) - Departures  have resumed, and scheduled service will
not be available from November 1 until  December 15. At that time, flights
will be offered Fridays, Saturdays and  Sundays. Please check _www.aa.com/gates_
(http://www.aa.com/apps/travelInformation/SearchGatesTimesandStatus.jhtml)
for the most current information on your specific flight.

One other note... I did hear today that a Playa neighbor of mine did arrive Wednesday into Cancun on a domestic Mexicana flight via Mexico City. The Mexican passengers were allow entry with no delay however my neighbor was not going to be allowed entry until they showed their FM3 visa and argued the exception. What is the deal? Is the Mexican government afraid that swarms of US tourists are suddenly going to decide to vacation right now in Cancun? I am sure the tourist industry south of Puerto Morales would however welcome some business about now.

Cynthia

• From: "mike, and chrissy hopson" <hotinplaya at playful.com>
• Date: Fri, 28 Oct 2005 17:36:01 -0500

Hi every one,  

pls excuse ny typing, I lost 2 pairs of glass's in the  storm, and  am guessing where the keys are!!

we are fine, got electric and internet back last hight, (sorta of) as they bring on more grids, they shut us down for 1/2 hour or so,  This sucker lasted for rver, by monday our feet looked like they belonged on a corpse. can not believe the progress being made here, almost back to normal!!!  will post some positive pictures soon, people going about their buisness, dining , shopping ect. Playa was blessed, as bad as it looked on monday, no real structure damage ,except for the extreme beach front units that sufferred the storm surge and battering waves, (why wld you build there anyway)  

Yesterday we made 2 runs to friends in pto Moralos,  ice water and food,  they really got it, and no presence of help!! Today on the way to Cancun the pueblo was bursting with government activity!!  If you have been here, you may remember the huge power lines running along the highway #307, from Moroles north they went down, we saw a convey of trucks to replace one of them, over 20 semi trucks pre fab, to replace one tower!!

Rexieved a call from  our companys boss, they are operating out of his house in Cancun, They have 1 generator, and really need to shut it down for maintance and requested mine as a back up, wasn't thrilled about going to Cancun, then they told me they are trying to put together pay roll, so they could send to Maridia for deposit into our accounts, we were on thge road in 5 minutes (cash is king)

Cancun is under military control, soilders on every block,   and military encampments every where, but what impressed us, soilders , government worlers, civilians workoink hand in hand , cleaning up. working on power poles , you name it!!

An example!!   a road of fallen power poles,   (A) civillian workers removing the insulators, wires hardwares ,what ever, and moving the fallen poles aside  (B) workers with equipment laying the new poles, and drilling them and intalling them (C) electrical wporkers from all over the Republic , attaching the "T"s insulators ect (from the old poles)  (D) then crews behind them running the lines

Have talked to a few tourist stranded here, and all have been great impressions on how they have been treated, one guy was in a hurricane in Florida last year, and can not believe how effective the response has been here, he was with out power for 3 weeks, and we had power in 3 days!!

Yes we may be down,   But we are not out,   and qouting a sign at the Cancun Hilton, we will be back better than ever!!!!

Mike . Chrissy and family

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Fri, 28 Oct 2005 15:20:51 -0400 (EDT)

Update from Teresa. -Gert



---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2005 20:51:35 -0700 (PDT)
From: Teresa C. Pisano <cozumel00 at yahoo.com>
Subject: Flights

Hey Gert...
Teresa here again with updates from America West
Airlines. We have cancelled all our flights to Cancun
until the beginning of December.  It's hard to believe
this with the fact that cruise ships will be allowed
in but not passengers on flights.  We have relief
flights going down everyday to get tourist out of the
area but those of us who live, work, and own a home or
business can't get home.  Any help from anyone as to
how we can get there would be great. I can get on the
flight since I work for the company but I can't get
off.

Teresa
cozumel00 at yahoo.com
yahoo IM: cozumel00
AOL IM: tcozumel00

www.vrbo.com/36988 (Cozumel Bungalow Rental)

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Fri, 28 Oct 2005 01:23:59 -0400 (EDT)

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2005 22:19:52 -0700
From: NFN Travel International <aaron at nfntravel.com>
To: gert at gobeach.com
Subject: Desire Resort Hurricane Wilma Update

 <http://www.nfntravel.com>
NFN News and Updates     Thursday, 27 October 2005

HURRICANE  WILMA UPDATE

Announcement from the management of NFN Travel International regarding
Desire Resort & Spa reservations.

We have followed the situation in Cancun and the Maya Riviera almost
hourly, and have been working overtime to assess the situation and
prepare a policy to protect your vacation. As all are likely aware,
Desire was not accessible until yesterday due to impassable roads. We
now know that the resort will not reopen until at least December 20. We
offer the following:

1.      AIRLINES: American and Continental have offered full refunds.
United is offering re-scheduling with no penalty for up to one year. We
understand that most charter airlines are offering vouchers for future
travel. Please check with your carrier for their current policy. If you
booked your air through NFN Travel, please contact us for assistance
with a refund or a re-schedule of travel dates.

2.      RESCHEDULE YOUR DESIRE VACATION to one of NFN Travel's January,
February and April 2006 dates. We also have 2006 group space at Desire
for June 20-25, July 18-23 (takeover), August 15-20, and October 21-28.
Check NFN Travel <http://www.nfntravel.com>  for other group dates.

3.      DECEMBER 3-10 DESIRE GROUP - RE-SCHEDULE to HEDONISM III: We
have negotiated a very attractive all-inclusive rate for a December 3-10
tour date. This is especially suggested for couples who had Dec. 3-10
reservations for Desire, but all couples are welcome to join this group.
Please call NFN Travel for these rates - they are too low to publish.

4.      RESCHEDULE to BRACO or HEDONISM II at GREAT RATES for NOVEMBER &
DECEMBER: We have negotiated very attractive rates for Grand Lido Braco
and Hedonism II, Jamaica. These rates are subject to room availability;
give us a call and we will work with you to book the dates you prefer.

5.      TRIP INSURANCE: If you had purchased travel trip insurance
(recommended), please contact your insurance company directly.


DESIRE RESORT & SPA OFFICIAL POLICY AS OF 10/27/05 FOLLOWS:

1.      GUESTS SCHEDULED for OCTOBER 12-20 INCLUSIVE: a Desire Travel
Certificate will be issued valid for the number of nights unused due to
early departure to avoid the hurricane. These certificates will be valid
for stays at desire from March 1 through December 27, 2006 in the same
room category as the original booking regardless of the applicable rate
in effect in 2006. You will have first option for new dates. We suggest
rebooking by November 30, 2005 to ensure your space, but you may book at
any time as long as travel is completed by December 27. 2006. Call NFN
Travel <http://www.nfntravel.com>  for rebooking.

2.      GUESTS SCHEDULED to ARRIVE from OCTOBER 20 THROUGH DECEMBER 20,
2005: A Travel Certificate will be issued valid for stays at Desire from
March 1 through December 27, 2006, in the same room category as the
original booking regardless of the applicable rate in effect in 2006.
You will have first option for new dates. We suggest rebooking by
November 30, 2005 to ensure your space, but you may book at any time as
long as travel is completed by December 27, 2006. Call NFN Travel
<http://www.nfntravel.com>  for rebooking. NOTE: guests who re-book
their reservation for travel between May 1 through December 27, 2006
will receive an additional free night. This is applicable for one stay
only, and is not accumulative. This is an exceptional discount and an
excellent
        reason to rebook for 2006.

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2005 18:03:21 -0400 (EDT)

Received the following from Adrian from Especias through Marla Fisher.

*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert at vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/

Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2005 16:36:35 -0500 (Central Standard Time)
From: Marla Fisher
Subject: An Update from Adrian

I received this from Adrian today

Thank you very much for beein in touch.

We are all ok, family and Especias as well as the Kiteshop are ok. We have
had some friends over with us and have help alot of people here in the
island.

It was a Strog hurriacine for sure and PLEASE do not belive all of what the
media is saying. Cozumel had some big damage but nothing that cant not be
rebuild. We have had electricity since last night and we are working really
hard.

As a team, we (town people) have cleared up streets since the day after the
storm for the help (electricity company and trash trucks) to work and have
water and all the services back.

Ocean front is only accesible to store owners and the streets are ok, and in
a month, as a limit, all have to be back to business.

Piers: one, puerta Maya gone, International pier partially hurt and in use
as well as punta langosta and the town one are in use already.

We are expecting the first cruiseship Nov the 14th and tour operators are
ready to work Now!!

We have had this before and we know how to get back in business. My
restaurant is running already and the kiteshop as well.

Please Help, spread the voice, WE ARE OK!!! and there will be updates at
www.cozumelkiteboarding.com,
www.cometocozumel.com,
www.cancunmap.com,
www.scubatony.com


I will greatly appreciate if you forward this mail to as many people you
know

Sincerely

Adrian from Especias!!

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2005 17:35:38 -0400 (EDT)

Earlier there was a report that about all boats in Puerto de Abrigo were destroyed. (see below). Susan Zamos send me the following correction: -Gert

I am happy to report that Albatros Charters, Cozumel, who keeps 3 boats 
in the marina, has operational boats. The dive boat, the Libra, was off 
site and suffered no damage.

It will be fully operational as soon as they can get it in the marina.

The other boat, a fishing boat, the Albatros, suffered minimal superficial 
damage.

In fact, the Albatros will be towing another fishing boat (The Easy Rider, 
also owned by Albatros Charters) out for repairs as early as tomorrow.

Please issue this correction, as we need to get the good word out that
their are businesses ready to operate, and their boats have survived.

For further information, contact Rita/Burak, Albatros Charters, local 
Cozumel number 987 87 27904 or from the US toll free 888-333-4643

Thank you!

Susana Zamos

• From: "Kevin Alexander Murcko" <cancunkev at hotmail.com>
• Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2005 15:37:21 -0600

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2005 14:49:33 -0400 (EDT)

Greg Barron forwarded me the following:

Some excellent photos can be found on the Playa Maya hotel website in
regard to Hurricane Wilma.

  http://www.playa-maya.com/


*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert at vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2005 14:45:25 -0400 (EDT)

More news from Cozumel I received through Reiko from the scuba folks
Aldora Divers ( http://aldora.com ).  -Gert


October 27, 2005

Using our Cozumel Staff and a reliable phone link I have been working on 
getting status information on as many hotels and locations as I can. But it is 
impossible to get many of the details being asked for and predicting when 
damaged hotels might open would be ridiculous. I would like to offer some 
general guidelines for consideration which will be condensed into Dave's Rules.

1. All photos that you see on the web are the ones showing the most 
devastation. Nobody takes a picture of something that is OK and there is a lot 
of Cozumel that is still OK. And most of you know how hard working and 
industrious the Cozumelenos are so Dave's rule #1 is: Believe that there is 
still a lot left in Cozumel, and what is a mess, will soon be cleaned up.

2. Most serious and long lasting damage from this hurricane was the duration of 
wave action. It should then be obvious that proximity to the water and height 
above the water are major determinants of damage. If one is worried about a 
hotel that is right on the water, or between the main road and the water, there 
should be serious concern about the possibility of reopening in the short term. 
Hotel Presidente has announced a planned January 31st opening, Melia Mayan has 
announced that they will be closed at least 3 months as has Caribe Blu and 
others. The Fiesta Americana has announced a December 15th opening. I suspect 
however that some of them may never reopen.

Now, you should keep in mind that there are many hotels with minimal damage 
that are going to stay closed until the end of the money losing low season and 
must use the hurricane as an excuse. Or some may be negotiating with insurance 
companies by staying closed to protect possible compensation. After all, it is 
low season and even in normal times they are losing money by staying open.

So, Dave's rule number 2 is to expect that waterfront hotels may not be 
available until after the New Year, and apply reasonable skepticism to any 
other claims.

3. There are many hotels that ought to be open soon and even quasi waterfront 
ones like the Hotel Cozumel, Coral Princess, Fiesta Americana and Villa Blanca 
that should be able to overcome the minimal damage they suffered. Virtually all 
of the downtown hotels could be open tomorrow if power is restored.

Dave's rule #3 is to be suspicious of waterfront hotels being opened any time 
soon, but expect all off the water hotels to be able to open very soon.

4. Businesses off the main street can be in full operation as soon as power is 
restored. These include most of the favorite restaurants such as Prima, La 
Choza, El Capi Navigante. And regardless of posts about being unable to get 
food, that was a very short term problem and will be solved very quickly if it 
is not already. Dave's rule #4 is to expect that you will be able to visit most 
of your favorite places in Cozumel.

5. The major factor in the restoration of the normal infrastructure, and the 
ability to provide a quality vacation will be the electrical power. Indeed, by 
Wednesday night power was restored to the Chedraui supermarket and portions of 
the Corpus Christi area. The Mexicans know that tourism is the life blood of 
Cozumel and a major source of income to the country overall so there will be a 
massive effort to get things back in order. Perhaps a more important factor is 
that the Governor of the State of Quintana Roo is a former Mayor of Cozumel and 
all of his family and friends live in Cozumel--they will not let Cozumel be 
forgotten. The preliminary announcement was that power will be restored to all 
of the island within 45 days, but that means every last palapa in the jungle. 
The priority will of course be the business areas. Dave's rule #5 is that you 
should wait for power to be restored before coming to Cozumel, but expect that 
it is possible any time after November 15th.

6. There have been many dive shops that have suffered damage to both boats and 
facilities. But sinking a boat is not the calamity that many envision. In the 
case of outboard powered boats it is pretty simple. We at Aldora over the years 
have had 4 or 5 cases of boats going down and in most cases we were able to get 
them running and working again in a matter of a few days or less (one time 3 
hours later). Those with diesel inboards are more complex and may be 
complicated by the shear numbers that have to be fixed, but they will be. As 
long as the hull of the boat was not cracked open repairs should be able to be 
done in fairly short order.

As for facilities being damaged, that is easily overcome in many cases. Indeed, 
for our first 3 years of operation, Aldora Divers did not even have a facility. 
For many shops the tanks are just rented on a daily basis from the compressor 
shop and maintenance and gear is stored off the water. It is my opinion that 
most dive shops will be physically able to be back in operation very soon.

Financial problems are another issue though. While physically able, many shops 
have just finished a very low season in which most of their financial reserves 
needed for survival were already eaten up by the recovery from hurricane Emily 
in July. Whether they have the resources to pay for repairing damages and stay 
in business is another question.

Given all that, it is possible that the availability of dive boats may be 
limited in the near term so Dave's Rule #6 is to make assured dive reservations 
before coming to Cozumel.

7. There have been many posts by concerned people about ways to help their 
friends and the generally wonderful people of Cozumel. I think the absolute 
best way to do so is to plan a trip here and make it soon and frequent. Your 
presence is all these people need, that is work and they know how to do that. 
And I sincerely believe that you will find the experience to be better than 
ever before. Sure there will still be lingering damage to look at, and you may 
not be able to do everything like you used to, or your favorite beachfront 
hotel may never open again, but in every cloud there is a silver lining.

At least for a while, the thundering herd of cruise ships may no longer be 
there in such numbers, the reefs will be less crowded, everyone you see will be 
grateful for your presence, and you can feel very good about helping the people 
restore their lives, and become a part of creating the new, old Cozumel. Dave's 
rule #7? Come down and figure it out your own!


Any questions regarding Wilma, follow this link


Regards

Dave Dillehay
Aldora Divers

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2005 13:35:09 -0400 (EDT)

Received this update from Lisa through Carrie and Reiko Michisaki. Gert

GOOD MORNING, I SPOKE WITH RAMON LAST NIGHT, ALTHOUGH HE SOUNDED TOTALLY 
EXHAUSTED HE WAS VERY ENCOURAGED AT HOW FAST THINGS ARE IMPROVING. HE SAID THEY 
SENT A LOT OF ELECTRICAL WORKERS TO THE ISLAND & THE LOCAL FOLKS ARE ALL 
PITCHING IN TO GET THE PLACE CLEANED UP. I RECEIVED THIS UPDATE & WANTED TO 
FORWARD IT ON TO ALL OF YOU, IT REITERATES WHAT RAMON WAS SAYING. I DELETED THE 
PARTS THAT DIDN'T APPLY TO US, HOWEVER, I LEFT IN SOME INFO ABOUT THE HOUSES 
JUST TO GET AN IDEA ABOUT HOW FAST THINGS ARE MOVING. JUST SO YOU KNOW, LISA IS 
COZUMEL VACATION RENTALS.
THEY HAVE BEEN WORKING ON THE BOAT & SO FAR SO GOOD. HOPE YOU ALL HAVE A 
WONDERFUL DAY.
BEST REGARDS, CARRIE

-----Original Message-----
From: Lisa - Cozumel Vacation Rentals
Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2005 5:56 AM
To:
Subject: 8am Thursday - Miracle recovery underway!

Hi all,

Haven't heard from Miguel this morning but we talked last night until we

got cut off.  Cells still intermittent.

Pancho arrived yesterday to very wet & mud covered belongings but he said it 
appeared so far just cleaning and drying out.  Hopefully he didn't lose much.

Miguel says there are elec. co. workers all over the island now.  They don't 
have much equipment yet though and they are conserving gas with a few trucks.  
They drop workers off in a neighborhood so they go around working on foot.  
They have ropes to get up poles, and use some small tool (don't know the word 
Miguel used) and their hands to dig.  Very crude but they are making incredible 
progress.  He didn't get power as of last night but thinks it'll be 
today/tonight as they are working in his area (just south of Corpus).  The 
neighborhood of San Gervasio (way back) had power on Tuesday as well as a few 
other smaller areas.

People are out gathering and piling up debris.  Some are even able to haul it 
away.  Since there is so little gas, local private companies like Ferinco (big 
construction equipment & supply company) are using their vehicles and equipment 
to clean/move debris.  They and other companies and individuals are doing this 
for free, only asking for gasoline.  Miguel's

neighbors are cleaning up the neighborhood and as soon as he can, neighbors 
will chip in for gas for his personal truck to haul it away.  He said not only 
did the helicopters arrive like flies (3rd person I know who's described how 
many "like flies") but that Cozumelenos are buzzing around everywhere.

They expect to have city water running today !  I guess their pumps weren't too 
badly damaged or more have already been flown in.  Gasoline is limited to 150 
pesos worth per person

They are determined to get back to as near normal as possible, as soon as 
possible.  I commented that though the island will be ready by the season, many 
will have to leave the island for work in the meantime....he exclaimed "NO 
LISA, the island will have tourists in two weeks I think."  IF we can get the 
word out the island is ready - so many terrible rumors are going
around the internet and the photos will remain in people's minds for a long 
time.

Lots of dive boats lost but many are ok.  All boats in Puerto de Abrigo
(fishing/yachts) destroyed.  Those I can confirm are ok are Ventura's (though 
it's not out of dry dock yet I don't think) and Michelle & Roberto's Liquid 
Blue Divers'.  Theirs is in the water.  Maybe we'll have an honest account of 
the reef/marine life conditions soon.

What most people don't understand is that all the destruction seen in photos of 
downtown, is that 90% of the buildings are still standing and basically only 
need paint, shelving, and merchandise to be back in business.  The shells of 
buildings remain, just nothing inside them.
And
that the Punta Langosta pier in good shape can receive cruise ships & 
vehicle/supply ferry.  And the passenger ferry is running normal schedule, and 
will add more trips for just supplies if the vehicle ferry doesn't get there 
today as expected.  It was expected yesterday but they were still modifying 
something on the Pta. Langosta pier to receive it.  Cruise ships may not arrive 
for awhile however since the shops on and around that pier were destroyed, and 
the Pta. Maya pier and buildings are gone.

So, things are looking VERY good for a speedy recovery.  For your homes 
too.....and I was shocked at how much our crews got done yesterday.....

They finished cleaning up exterior (gardens) and interiors of all homes in 
town.  They removed all debris from pools in town and added chlorine.
They cannot run filters until there's either more gas for a generator (which he 
should have today) or electricity.

Today they will clean gardens & pull debris out of oceanfront pools and clean 
gardens.  He said the landscape debris is unbelievable.  Interiors
have been cleaned too.

Though they have finished cleaning interiors, they are still working on drying 
things out.  They take furniture/etc outside to dry while they are on site and 
put it back in before they leave.  And they will do that each day as long as 
necessary.

I can't believe they have gotten so much done !  Miguel did say he doesn't feel 
his age right now...says his body feels about 70 years old.  I imagine the 
whole crew feels the same, along with many others on the Island.

I haven't heard from him this morning but knowing how busy and tired he is, I 
told him unless he needs me for something to just call once a day.
That we all trust him to do what he needs to do.

Lisa

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Wed, 26 Oct 2005 23:14:49 -0400 (EDT)

Received from the Ecovillage  Training Center - Gert

Here is a picture of the restaurant at Villas Chimay on the beach at
Holbox, with a view from the table area near the ocean towards the
kitchen and back porch.

Attachment: P6C17AB3E
Description: JPEG image

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Wed, 26 Oct 2005 20:45:55 -0400 (EDT)

As found on the excellent forum at http://cancuntravelonline.com.  -Gert

CANCUN, Mexico--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 26, 2005--"Clean up and restoration
efforts continue in Cancun today. We are very grateful to the
extraordinary collaboration by local authorities and residents who are
working tirelessly to get the city up and running, and to the tourists who
weathered the storm with us and are still making their way back home.
Following are the latest updates:

-- Transportation:

-- Cancun's International Airport, including airline offices, reopened
today to the general public; they are currently focusing on outbound
flights.

-- Yesterday 34 flights carrying about 7,000 passengers departed Cancun;
another 5,000 passengers departed via Merida's International airport.
Today, 54 flights departed Cancun carrying an estimated 11,000 passengers.

-- Mexicana de Aviacion, Magnicharters, USA3000, Champion Air, Aviacsa and
Aeromexico initiated flights today in an effort to evacuate between
8,000-10,000 domestic and foreign tourists.

-- Several international airlines and travel agencies are still working on
busing tourists from local shelters to Merida where they can take flights
back home.

-- The central bus station, ADO, has deployed the firsts buses with
tourists and local residents to various cities near Cancun.

-- National and Foreign Comments/Assistance:

-- President Vicente Fox is expected to tour Cancun tomorrow to comment on
restoration efforts and next steps.

-- American Consul Lisa Vickers and U.S. Embassy Representative Judith
Brian announced that they have initiated a special "task force" hotline
number to assist US citizens seeking to leave Cancun: +01 55 50 80 22 00
ext. 0.

-- Restoration:

-- Forty percent of the city's electrical power and water facilities have
been restored; special attention has been given to areas near hospitals
and medical service facilities.

-- Eight gas stations and four banks have reopened in the downtown area

-- Kukulcan Boulevard, which spans the hotel zone, is 100% clean and
accessible

-- Hotels:

-- Hotel cleaning and restoration is underway, including: Royal Solaris,
Royal Islander, Imperial Las Perlas, Dos Playas, Clipper Club, Grand
Oasis, Omni, Fiesta Americana (F.A.) Condesa, F.A. Coral Beach, among
others

-- Palace Resorts properties in Cancun and the Riviera Maya are set to
reopen 2,200 rooms by the December 20.

-- According to a corporate bulletin, the following Marriott properties in
Cancun will be closed until December 31, 2005: JW Marriott, Marriott Casa
Magna, and the Ritz Carlton

-- According to a corporate bulletin, reservations for the Presidente
InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa and the Presidente InterContinental
Cancun Resort are suspended until January 31, 2006.

-- The Cancun CVB and the Hotel and Motel Association of Quintana Roo have
initiated an informal survey of 93 hotels in the area. So far, they have
obtained feedback from 48 of the 93 hotels. Of those who responded, the
average response was:

-- Their properties will take about one month to restore

-- Their properties experienced and average of 30% damage

The Cancun CVB will continue to provide ongoing updates as soon as new
information is available. In the meantime, we are working on updating our
website www.cancun.info and have some updated information available on
http://cancun-cti.com (click on Hurricane Wilma update)."

*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert at vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Wed, 26 Oct 2005 19:17:25 -0400 (EDT)

If you were planning to go the other way... read the message below:

*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert at vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/


---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Wed, 26 Oct 2005 19:13:40 EDT
From: SkiVerdad at aol.com
Subject: Cancun Airport Stops Arrivals

10/26/05
My husband and I were booked on Suncountry Airlines to fly into the Cancun
airport on Thursday. We planned to drive down to Playa del Carmen  - where we
have a home in Playacar, so that we could access our storm  damages and begin
repairs.

I just received word (5:30 p.m.) from the airlines that the Mexican
Government has stopped all new passenger arrivals into the Cancun airport  
through
Sunday. Suncountry will continue sending planes down (although now  empty) to
Cancun to pick-up passengers and bring them to the US.

I am not sure why the government has decided to take this action.  Passengers
were arriving into the airport yesterday. My guess is that they  needed to
move all personnel - to deal strictly with passenger departures.  The Suncountry
agent did say that - she had no words to describe the  current chaos at the
airport and that many people left or lost their passports  during the hurricane
evacuation. It's not over until it's over...

Cynthia

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Wed, 26 Oct 2005 19:10:45 -0400 (EDT)

Some new updates from Isla Holbox.  Forwarded to me by Albert Bates of the
Ecovillage Training Center. -Gert


From Por Esto, the newspaper of Quintana Roo, for Monday (translation by
Babelfish):


In the island of Holbox, Quintana Roo, "Wilma" caused severe damages in
hotels, restaurants, dwellings and almost all the electric infrastructure
and of phone system. There we found the corpse of a Cuban youth that
travelled in a small boat. POR ESTO! Was the only one present in the
place of the tragedy.

It destroyed and ghostly left "Wilma" to the heavenly island of Holbox
after striking it brutally and to cover it with waves of more than three
meters of height, what caused severe damages in hotels, restaurants,
dwellings and almost all the electric infrastructure and of phone
system.  The worst onslaught of the tempest happened the early morning on
Sunday, when the enormous waves and hurricane-force gusts they launched
out of the grounds the beds, the television sets and even the
refrigerators.

All Saturday and all Sunday saturated in the beach the corpse of a Cuban
woman of some 20 years that travelled in a small housekeeper services
boat, in which is supposed there were three people more.  With the
absence of settlers, the body of the Caribbean woman began to be broken
down and was until today Monday when the first people that managed to
arrive at the island put it in a rowboat of trash that filled later with
sand to avoid the fetid smell that already said good-bye.

POR ESTO! was the only media that yesterday arrived on its own to Holbox
and among the people that yesterday could enter to the island were
exactly two of their reporters.  The rowboat where was placed the corpse
of the Cuban is located front of the building of the municipal
delegation, while her raft the journalists to a distance of three blocks
they located it, in one of the streets that to barely last week lit up
its tourist splendor.

The island of Holbox, that is 37 kilometers long and two kilometers in
its wider part, is found totally remote, desolate and destroyed.  The
glass-cased tubing down in the bottom of the sea that supplied drinking
water from Chiquilá, broke in hundreds of parts and some of them floated
in the sea.  As reporters traveled through there could be seen in each
street refrigerators, television sets, stoves, computers, toys, musical
instruments and all the unimaginable things.

In the street Jerónimo Aguilar a solitary hungry hog examined the trash
in search of food, while to a side had of mute witnesses a Christ in the
Cross and the image of the Sacred Heart, firm in the altar of the church
to which flew him itself the ceiling and broke him itself what a strong
door of wood seemed.  The scenes seemed removed of landscapes surrealists
and as an example, in which was the park was a childlike cart of plastic,
a refrigerator thrown, a bandolón in a case of frayed fabric and out
front, the intact bust of Benito Juárez.

For all the streets they were posts thrown started since their bases,
tubings of the drainage by above the stools, taking a walk tourist Golf
Carts and even plasma panel TVs.  The part that looks toward the sea was
the most damaged one, although the south part was not saved from the
brutal force of "Wilma", and the track was in a taking a walk tourist
embarkation of some 50 feet that rose itself in an area of concrete.

In the it traveled through fetid smells in some houses were perceived,
that could be of pets or decomposed food.  The worse thing could be that
was a matter of some dead person.  The businessman Guillermo Torfer, one
of the dozen of people that yesterday they managed to enter to Holbox,
did a call to the authorities through POR ESTO! so that they respond
immediately to his place, they evaluate the damages and they support in
the recovery of the Island.  "We have to continue working all the ones
that live here, we we are arranged to do it immediately and therefore I
believe that the authorities should not delay, because otherwise the
consequences would be very lamentable and damaging for all", he
asserted.

Authorities considered that the immediate thing would be to re-establish
the service of drinking water, electric power and phone system, as well
as the shipment of provisions for the families that will begin to
return.  Owner of a cyber-cafe and associate of the hotel "Villas
Delfines", which they suffered serious damages, the mister Torfer
considered that of the 15 hotels established some five suffered total
damages, so much more partial and the other better damages.
The island has an approximate population of two thousand people, of the
ones that more than the half is dedicated to the fishing and the others
to tourist activities.  The evacuation began since last Wednesday and 14
people flat refused to leave their houses, for which they had to sign
before the authorities were assured that was of their own will. Saturday
afternoon was evacuated a group of Italian tourists.  The communities of
Solferino and San Angel, to 15 and 30 kilometers of Chiquilá, are the
places that were supplied like temporary refuge Other five or six people
protected themselves in some of the houses already abandoned by the
eviction, for also avoid to leave the Island.  The personnel of the Navy
remained in the place so that their elements watched and they conserved
the order in the community.  Barely yesterday Monday they began to arrive
some islanders to verify the damages caused to its grounds, therefore was
impossible to do it the own Sunday due to the unstable wave that
prevailed.  Besides, it turns out to be very difficult to be able to be
transferred of Chiquilá to Holbox (is distant 15 kilometers on the
average), since of the 300 boats used for fishing and of tourism, only
some five they were not destroyed by the hurricane, among them that of
the young fisherman Ernesto Xulio Alvarez, who rented their launch so
that the reporters POR ESTO! could arrive at the now phantasmagoric
island of Holbox. (Rafael My Cobá)

 --------------------------------

This in from Elaine Tomasi, Tuesday night:

Dear Albert
I got a phone call last night and Dunja reported what the 20 men (Gabriel
was with them) which went to Holbox yesterday found over there.

It seems that in town a lot of the houses are still up - ours as well but
1.5 meter (5 feet) in the water.
Villas Chimay is almost completely destroyed, the restaurant torn in
pieces, the front bungalows without front wall, nothing left in the
bungalows nor in the bodegas - generator at Punta Ziricote and so on. The
sea just washed over it. Dunja and Gabriel will go over today again and
take pictures - I will send them to you as soon as I get them.

They say: The white house of Kim and Ana is o.k. - La Palapa (Linos),
Villas Delfines, Capriccio are destroyed. At Mapache (Lili) the front
bungalows are damaged. Xaloc resort is o.k. -- just the front bungalow
has one wall missing.

Gabriel went back to Tizimin yesterday to inform the women which were all
waiting. The rest of the men stayed in Holbox and started to rescue.

You will find some pictures on www.poresto.net

I'm sorry not to have any news of your house I wish you good luck!!!
Eli

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Wed, 26 Oct 2005 13:41:18 -0400 (EDT)

 <http://www.nfntravel.com>
NFN News and Updates     Wednesday, 26 October 2005

HURRICANE  WILMA UPDATE

DESIRE RESORT - Cancun

After an extensive visit and evaluation which took place yesterday by
the Management and Engineers it was determined that Desire Resort & Spa
will open tentatively on December 20, 2005. This date is still tentative
as it is based on a first evaluation; however, it is believed that the
resort will not open before this date. In the next couple of weeks we
will be able to send you accurate information on the official opening
date of the resort. Within the next 48 hours, Desire Resort will also be
informing us of their cancellation policy.

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Wed, 26 Oct 2005 13:16:54 -0400 (EDT)

Cozumel Wireless IP and Voice over IP has posted some pictures on their
website: http://eczm.com/wilma/


*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert at vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/

• From: "Kevin Alexander Murcko" <cancunkev at hotmail.com>
• Date: Wed, 26 Oct 2005 11:13:10 -0600

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• From: teresa <cozumel00 at yahoo.com>
• Date: 25 Oct 2005 16:28:04 -0700

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Tue, 25 Oct 2005 19:11:22 -0400 (EDT)

As found at: http://help.stormcarib.com/read.php?5,4463

COZUMEL, Mexico (October 25, 2005) - Cozumel tourism officials acknowledge
the island has sustained substantial damage from Hurricane Wilma, but with
the gradual restoration of primary services, efforts to facilitate the
return of tourist to their homes are moving quickly ahead.

According to Raul Marrufo, director of the Cozumel Tourism Promotion
Board, "The most important thing is that people are safe. There were no
tourists injured as a result of the storm and our goal now is to
facilitate both air and ferry transportation so that the remaining
travelers can return home safely."

Current updates from the island as of 5:00 p.m. Central Time:

. The Cozumel airport sustained some damage but the runway is open and the
airport is operating. As of today, (Tuesday, October 25) Mexicana Airlines
began flights out of Cozumel to Mexico City. In addition, Mexicana
Airlines is expected to continue flights tomorrow (Wednesday, October 26)
and American Airlines will also provide a flight out of Cozumel to Dallas
tomorrow. The destination is working with these and other airline partners
to arrange additional flights to the U.S. to help remaining tourists on
the island return home.

. Some tourists began travel home yesterday (Monday, October 24) morning,
taking the ferry to Playa Del Carmen and catching buses to the Merida
Airport for flights home. Coupled with the flights to the U.S. from
Cozumel scheduled for tomorrow (Wednesday, October 26), Cozumel officials
expect the majority of tourists to have left the island by mid-day
Thursday, October 27.

. Ferry services between Cozumel and Playa Del Carmen began operating at
9:30 a.m. yesterday morning (Monday, October 24) and have been running
continuously since that time. The ferry has been operating free of charge
for tourists and locals.

. Approximately 1000 tourists currently remain in Cozumel. Tourists have
been relocated to downtown hotels, which have sustained less damage from
the storm and are well supplied to accommodate guests.

. Telephone service is operating. Hotel properties housing travelers are
assisting guests with calls home to family and friends.

. Cozumel coastal hotels and resorts have suffered extensive damage and
most are closed for damage assessment. More specific information will be
provided as it becomes available.

. Currently all cruise ship piers remain closed. The Punta Maya Pier was
lost during the storm. The remaining International and Punta Langosta
Piers have sustained damages but are still intact and are being assessed.

Electricity remains out on the island. Fuel is available for generators
currently operating. Additional generators are being brought to the island
to help restore basic electricity and sewage, and are expected to arrive
tomorrow


*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert at vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/

• From: Shelagh McNally <shemcn57 at yahoo.ca>
• Date: Tue, 25 Oct 2005 11:18:53 -0400 (EDT)

• From: Scott Frankenberger <dscottf at insightbb.com>
• Date: Tue, 25 Oct 2005 10:08:36 -0500

www.scottfrankenberger.com/wilma

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Mon, 24 Oct 2005 19:05:01 -0400 (EDT)

I received the following message from Steve who works for a major British
Airline.

*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert at vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/


---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Mon, 24 Oct 2005 18:44:38 EDT
From: Steve

We got 360 people out of Merida today, very long drive from Cancun, all
our aircraft are arriving with extra water on board, loads of bottles to
give out at airport, portable generators and everything we could think of
that might help.

Hope all sorts itself out there very soon.

Steve

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Mon, 24 Oct 2005 18:18:49 -0400 (EDT)

Jon Kavanaugh sent me the following message.

*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert at vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/


---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Mon, 24 Oct 2005 17:09:08 -0500
Subject: Presidente Intercontinental hotels

The websites for Presidente Intercontinental hotels in both Cancun
and Cozumel indicate no new guest arrivals before January 31, 2006.

Cozumel: http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/6c/1/en/hd/czmha
Cancun: http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/6c/1/en/hd/cunhc

Best wishes,

Jon

• From: Rohan Barnett
• Date: Mon, 24 Oct 2005 22:20:20 +0100

Central Playa del Carmen has electricity and people are making very good
progress in cleaning up Wilma's mess. I estimate that at least 50% of
businesses are open today and that most of the rest will open tomorrow.

In a few days there will probably be few obvious traces of our two-day ordeal -
everything just seems much 'open' due to the stripping of vegetation (which
grows back amazingly quickly in this area)

Rohan Barnett

Ah Cacao Chocolate Cafe
5a Av. y Constituyentes
http://www.ahcacao.com

• From: "Cliff" <cliff at portillas.com>
• Date: Mon, 24 Oct 2005 15:55:02 -0500

• From: "BillDianeandJack" <wj.gray at gte.net>
• Date: Mon, 24 Oct 2005 12:49:24 -0700

• From: "Teresa C. Pisano" <cozumel00 at yahoo.com>
• Date: Mon, 24 Oct 2005 12:19:04 -0700 (PDT)

Hi...My name is Teresa and I own a home on the island
of Cozumel.  This email was sent to me just thought I
would share it.  I was in contact with a friend of
mine the entire storm as her phone lines never went
down.  I can't imagine going thru that, just being on
the other end of the fone you could her the storm
pounding outside.  I understand there is a lot of
damage to the stores on the waterfront.  I work for
America West Airlines and our flight have all been
cancelled thru Thursday as of now.  


>>>"Hi. I posted this info into a new topic before I
saw this one.
>>>This is an email we received Saturday afternoon
(10/22) from 17 
>>>year old Jadie DeLille, whose family own the
Jeanie's Waffle House 
>>>Resteraunt on the main drag in Coz.
>>>Apparently she was able to use her battery powered
laptop and 
>>>found a live phoneline to dial out of on her modem.
>>>This was her message
>>>--------
>>>Hey!...I'm really glad I have my laptop, I as able
to hook it up 
>>>to the phone line and connect, I haven't left my
house in 39 
>>>hours, and it's barely 11.15, we've had 2 very hard
nights, the 
>>>wind's been howling through the hurricane shutters
so strongly, 
>>>that the rain, which has been non-stop, is coming
in through shut 
>>>windows, it's so wet that it's opening slits in the
window frames 
>>>and water gushes in through there. My house is
flooding from the 
>>>upstairs towards downstairs...at first the NNE
winds were going 
>>>through my mon's room, as it switched WNW (during
the daytime) we 
>>>were able to go out on the balcony, since it's
protected from the 
>>>strong winds and rain, we filmed and saw in awe as
the neighbors 
>>>roof started to fly off, and their neighbors house
fall apart 
>>>(made out of sticks and tar paper roofing), I've
got pics and 
>>>video of it, so you'll soon see what I mean....we
were able to get 
>>>a glimpse of the eye, it wasn't the whole eye, even
though it was 
>>>bigger than cozumel (at 10.30 friday the eye was
right next to us 
>>>and was almost twice as big), as we had 10 min of
the calmest 
>>>winds so far, because it still was windy, as the
eye was almost 
>>>over us, my mom moved her car to where it was safe
from the S 
>>>winds we were supposed to get....we watched in
shock as 8 guys 
>>>came out of the house where the roof was almost
completely off 
>>>of...they slowly walked to a shelter, or to
someone's house, but 
>>>as they walked the winds started to pick up, by
5.30 we had our 
>>>doors closed and went back to being in the dark,
the wind was 
>>>coming in harder than before, by this time wew were
in my room, my 
>>>door goes out to the baclony, and is covered by a
tall part of the 
>>>balcony, but the waterr was gushing in from how
hard it was 
>>>blowing, my brother's room is almost the same as
mine, and his was 
>>>flooding too (not a whole lot, but just so that is
get's 
>>>everything wet) so my house as flooding from
upstairs down....the 
>>>screen door from downstairs was ripped off it's
hinges, our front 
>>>door was blown open during the night, and we just
had to stand 
>>>hearing it slam over and over until morning, when
we could shut it 
>>>closed with some rope.... the wind and rain haven't
stopped yet, 
>>>we might get into a clearer part, but everything is
so damaged, 
>>>power lines are down, houses are wrecked,
everywhere is flooded, 
>>>and we have no idea when we'll get power back, when
food and water 
>>>will come, right now everyone only has a limited
amount of 
>>>supplies, I don't think anyone would've ever
imagined the storm 
>>>lasting over 40 hours....If you can whenever the
storm is passed, 
>>>send food and water, or any kind of aid possible,
Katrina was bad, 
>>>after all New Orleans is 2 ft under sea level, but
Katrina was 
>>>barely a category 4 when it hit, and it passed
quite quickly, 
>>>we've been here for 40 hours,, Wilma hit as a
strong category 4 
>>>last I kne, but I'm sure it went up to a 5, right
now Wilma is 
>>>strong cat. 3, but being here it doesn't seem that
it's mellowed 
>>>down at all, and above all it's been moving soooo
slow, making the 
>>>damage even worse, it might be moving slow (so slow
that now the 
>>>weahter center is not specifying how slo, last I
heard it was 5mph 
>>>but it's slowed down) the satellite picture from
yesterday is 
>>>almost at the same spot it is today!! So if you can
let anyone 
>>>know what has happened here, because I'm sure I'm
the only one on 
>>>the island that has been able to tell anyone what
has happened, 
>>>please let them know we need help, maybe if they
know before the 
>>>damage is calculted, the help will come quicker
>>>Sincerely
>>>Jadie De Lille"


Teresa
602-206-9645
011-52-987-857-0802
yahoo IM: cozumel00
AOL IM: tcozumel00

www.vrbo.com/36988 (Cozumel Bungalow Rental)

I would rather live my life as if there is a God,
   And die to find out there isn't,
   Than live my life as if there isn't,
   And die to find out there is.


        
                
__________________________________ 
Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 
http://mail.yahoo.com

• From: Oreo Hunter <oreohunter at gmail.com>
• Date: Mon, 24 Oct 2005 15:16:12 -0400

• From: Ecovillage Training Center <ecovillage at thefarm.org>
• Date: Mon, 24 Oct 2005 12:49:51 -0500

Gert -

-----

Here is the latest from Isla Holbox.

Thanks again to everyone who has supported this site. It has been invaluable.

Regards,

Albert Bates


--

- - Arundhati Roy

______________________________________________

Ecovillage Training Center
The Farm
POB 90 Summertown TN 38483-0090 USA


http://www.thefarm.org/etc
http://www.gaiauniversity.org
http://www.ena.ecovillage.org
http://www.i4at.org/
http://www.peaceroots.org/

__________________*__________________

• From: "Kevin Alexander Murcko" <cancunkev at hotmail.com>
• Date: Mon, 24 Oct 2005 11:29:59 -0600

• From: Scott Frankenberger <dscottf at insightbb.com>
• Date: Mon, 24 Oct 2005 10:31:32 -0500

More when I know more.

scott in Indiana

• From: "Reservation Request Grand Cayman Cruise Excursions" <request at grandcaymancruiseexcursions.com>
• Date: Mon, 24 Oct 2005 09:46:04 -0500

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert at vandijken.com>
• Date: Sun, 23 Oct 2005 18:06:48 -0400 (EDT)

I just got the following message from  Michelle Cammarata.   Great news
for people who have family vacationing here.

*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert at vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/


---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Sun, 23 Oct 2005 16:45:14 -0500
From: Michelle.Cammarata
Subject: Update

I just heard from our
friends in Cancun.  They were in a shelter with 1800 other people for many
days while the hurricane was hitting.  Today they were bused 16 hours to
Meridia and they are being told they will be flown out to Houston tomorrow
afternoon.  I am not sure what shelter they were in.



Michelle Cammarata

Kansas City, Kansas

• From: "Lesia Briston"
• Date: Sun, 23 Oct 2005 17:20:00 -0400

Hi
We had 2 separate conversations with people on Cozumel today.  I thought some information might be useful to post.  Firstly, land lines seem to be working on the west part of the Island, as that is how we got through.  In that area, there is waist deep flooding, and lots of debris. House was flooded, but was starting to recede when we spoke.   Cinderblock construction houses have stayed up with minimal structure damage to the houses themselves, but damage to walls/gates around houses.  Friends there are shaken, and said it was a horrible experience but have survived.  In Corpus Cristi, most of same holds true.  We only spoke via satellite phone, and it was a very brief conversation, but the same conditions there.  Flooding, no electiricity, no cable and no landlines on that part of the island.  Only outside damage they've heard is that the road that runs along the south shore of the Island is gone. 

Not much information here, but there is so very little information coming out of Cozumel, I thought any news would be something.

Cheers
Lesia

--
No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG Free Edition.
Version: 7.1.361 / Virus Database: 267.12.4/146 - Release Date: 21/10/2005
 

• From: "Kevin Alexander Murcko" <cancunkev at hotmail.com>
• Date: Sun, 23 Oct 2005 14:57:18 -0600

More photos..       Kevin Alexander Murcko Owner/Broker KM 8.5 Blvd Kukulkan Plaza Terramar Local 16 Cancun, Quintana Roo 77500 Mexico cancunkev at hotmail.com kevin at cancunforsale.com kevin at cancunkev.com www.cancunforsale.com tel: fax: mobile: 52 998 883 3033 52 998 883 3034 52 998 874 1582 Add me to your address book... Want a signature like this?

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• From: "Kevin Alexander Murcko" <cancunkev at hotmail.com>
• Date: Sun, 23 Oct 2005 14:55:44 -0600

More photos       Kevin Alexander Murcko Owner/Broker KM 8.5 Blvd Kukulkan Plaza Terramar Local 16 Cancun, Quintana Roo 77500 Mexico cancunkev at hotmail.com kevin at cancunforsale.com kevin at cancunkev.com www.cancunforsale.com tel: fax: mobile: 52 998 883 3033 52 998 883 3034 52 998 874 1582 Add me to your address book... Want a signature like this?

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• From: "Kevin Alexander Murcko" <cancunkev at hotmail.com>
• Date: Sun, 23 Oct 2005 14:53:43 -0600

More photos       Kevin Alexander Murcko Owner/Broker KM 8.5 Blvd Kukulkan Plaza Terramar Local 16 Cancun, Quintana Roo 77500 Mexico cancunkev at hotmail.com kevin at cancunforsale.com kevin at cancunkev.com www.cancunforsale.com tel: fax: mobile: 52 998 883 3033 52 998 883 3034 52 998 874 1582 Add me to your address book... Want a signature like this?

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• From: "Kevin Alexander" <kevin at cancunforsale.com>
• Date: Sun, 23 Oct 2005 14:49:44 -0600

More photos   Kevin Alexander Murcko Owner/Broker KM 8.5 Blvd Kukulkan Plaza Terramar Local 16 Cancun, Quintana Roo 77500 Mexico cancunkev at hotmail.com kevin at cancunforsale.com kevin at cancunkev.com www.cancunforsale.com tel: fax: mobile: 52 998 883 3033 52 998 883 3034 52 998 874 1582 Add me to your address book... Want a signature like this?

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• From: "Kevin Alexander Murcko" <cancunkev at hotmail.com>
• Date: Sun, 23 Oct 2005 14:51:47 -0600

We just were able to get out of the hotel zone and check on some properties downtown. Some areas are under 6 ft of water, while some are dry. We passed a few shelters and everyone seemed to be getting along ok. Some of the larger local supermarkets were giving away supplies, though there is looting going on.   I took a lot of photos. I only have about an hour till the generator is turned off, so I may not respond to all the emails I received.   We are ok, and plan to leave the city in 2 days or so.   I will try and send some more updates. I was asked how the Salvia Condominium was, I took a few pictures, it is in bad shape, but structurally it seems ok.   Note the photo of the door knob, I found it about 500 meters from it's original location in Punta Cancun, the white building with MANY blown out windows.   More to come....     Kevin Alexander Murcko Owner/Broker KM 8.5 Blvd Kukulkan Plaza Terramar Local 16 Cancun, Quintana Roo 77500 Mexico cancunkev at hotmail.com kevin at cancunforsale.com kevin at cancunkev.com www.cancunforsale.com tel: fax: mobile: 52 998 883 3033 52 998 883 3034 52 998 874 1582 Add me to your address book... Want a signature like this?

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