The December holidays are getting closer, but despite this, the panorama of foreign tourism on Mexican beaches not the most encouraging.
And the figures provided by the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (Inegi), show that the visit of tourists from other countries has decreased month after month.
Even this tourist crisis took place during the summer vacation period, a situation that has led to the closure of a park owned by Grupo Xcaret in the state of Quintana Roo.
Visit of foreign tourism falls on Mexican beaches
He Inegi released worrying figures regarding foreign tourism on Mexican beaches, which show that visiting the coasts of our country has fallen considerably.
According to the registered numbers, the visit of tourists from other countries by air decreased 3.6 percent in July 2024, compared to figures obtained in 2023.
This situation has not improved in the following months, since during the month of August 2024 a worrying drop of 6.2 percent y increased up to 6.4 percent in the month of September.
Due to this Francisco Madrid, head of the Center for Advanced Research in Sustainable Tourism (STARC), stated that airports such as Cancún, in Quintana Roo and Los Cabos, in Baja California, They register a decrease in their visitors.
In this regard, he shared that traffic in these international air terminals has fallen to 3% annuallynumbers that impact the business that lives off visitors.
Madrid pointed out that this may be due to various reasons, among which the lack of promotion of Mexico worldwide, although it may also be related to the insecurity that lives in a large part of the national territory.
Mexican beach. Preference for Mexico. (darkroom)
Grupo Xcaret reported on November 12 that the facilities of the Xavage park, located in Quintana Roo, will remain closed to the public.
The company explained that this difficult decision is due to a low influx of touristsso the theme park did not have the necessary visitors to continue its operations.
Therefore this recreation place was affected by the fall of the tourism sector to Mexican beaches, primarily in the Caribbean of Cancun and surrounding areas.
So far the company has not shared any possible date for the reopening of Xavage, although they pointed out that will be renewed in order to have a better offer for visitors.
Xavage, from Grupo Xcaret, closed due to a sad reality in the Mexican Caribbean (@XavagePark | X )
What are the main challenges facing foreign tourism in Mexico’s beach destinations right now?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Francisco Madrid, Head of STARC
Editor: Good afternoon, Francisco. Thank you for joining us today. As we approach the holiday season, many were hoping for a significant influx of foreign tourists to Mexican beaches. However, recent statistics indicate otherwise. Can you explain the trends you’re seeing in foreign tourism, particularly regarding Mexican beach destinations?
Francisco Madrid: Good afternoon, and thank you for having me. Yes, it’s a concerning situation. The data from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography, or Inegi, shows a continuous decline in foreign tourist arrivals. Air travel to locations like Cancún and Los Cabos has seen a drop of 3.6 percent in July 2024, followed by an even greater decrease of 6.2 percent in August, and 6.4 percent in September. This trend is alarming for our tourism sector.
Editor: Those figures are indeed troubling. What might you attribute this decline to?
Francisco Madrid: There are a few likely factors at play. One significant concern is the lack of effective promotion of Mexico as a tourist destination on a global scale. Marketing efforts seem insufficient to attract international visitors. On top of that, there is the issue of security in various parts of the country. Potential tourists may be wary of traveling to areas that have been highlighted for safety concerns.
Editor: It seems that marketing and safety are intertwined in influencing tourists’ decisions. In light of these declines, we recently saw the unfortunate closure of Xavage park by Grupo Xcaret. How do such closures reflect the state of the tourism industry?
Francisco Madrid: The closure of Xavage park is a stark indicator of the challenges facing the tourism industry in Quintana Roo and beyond. It not only affects the visitors who enjoy these attractions but also the businesses and employees dependent on the tourism economy. When visitor numbers drop—especially during peak times like summer and the upcoming December holidays—it has a ripple effect throughout the entire sector.
Editor: Given these challenges, what would you suggest as potential strategies to revive foreign tourism in Mexico?
Francisco Madrid: Revitalizing tourism will require a multifaceted approach. First, we need to enhance marketing efforts to reach potential visitors. This could include showcasing safety measures in place and promoting the unique experiences Mexico has to offer. Additionally, collaboration with local governments to improve safety in tourist areas can help rebuild trust with prospective travelers. Lastly, innovative tourism products, such as eco-tourism or cultural experiences, might attract different demographics that haven’t historically visited our beaches.
Editor: Those sound like actionable strategies. As we enter a critical time for the tourism sector, what message do you think is most important for international tourists to hear from Mexico?
Francisco Madrid: I believe the key message is that Mexico remains a welcoming destination full of diverse experiences. It’s imperative we communicate that extensive measures are being taken to ensure the safety and well-being of all visitors. Despite current challenges, the beauty and hospitality of Mexico’s beaches are as captivating as ever, and we are striving to enhance the overall visitor experience.
Editor: Thank you, Francisco, for your insights. It’s clear that while the situation is challenging, there’s potential for recovery if strategic actions are taken. Wishing you and the tourism sector all the best in these upcoming months.
Francisco Madrid: Thank you, and let’s hope for a rebound in our beloved tourism industry.