International tourism in Mexico reached record highs in 2017, as the country welcomed over 39.3 million travelers from around the world. According to Tourism Minister Enrique de la Madrid, these historical numbers of foreign visitors reflect Mexico’s wide range of modern, environmentally responsible tourism offerings. The tourism sector is now a significant contributor to Mexico’s income, and has helped boost the country’s gross domestic product by 2.5 percent each year.
International tourism skyrockets
At present, some 10 million Mexicans benefit directly or indirectly from revenues generated by the tourism industry. Last year, the country netted over 21 billion U.S. dollars from international tourist dollars – an 8.3 percent increase over the previous year.
Mexico is now ranked the 8th most popular vacation destination in the world. Given its proximity to the U.S., it’s no surprise that Americans make up a large portion of international tourists. In 2016, nearly 8 million Americans visited Mexico’s world-renowned beaches, resort towns and Mayan ruins.
National tourism figures indicate that Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, the Riviera Maya, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit were the best performing markets last year. With no shortage of adventure activities, archeological attractions and natural beauty, these vacation hotspots offer something for everyone.
Mexico promises an enticing mix of contemporary arts and Meso-american cultures, a place where you can explore ancient Mayan pyramids and play a round of championship golf in one day. Whether you’re visiting the Baja California coastline or snorkeling the crystal clear waters off the Yucatan Peninsula, you’ll find this country to be a fabulously friendly and easy place to travel.
Travel hotspots in Mexico
Renowned for their sublime beaches and vibrant nightlife, Cancun and Playa del Carmen have remained perennial favorites for tourists. But increasing numbers of families and solo travelers are choosing a more laid-back vibe on the west coast’s Riviera Nayarit. Towns like Puerto Vallarta have just the right blend of restaurants, kid-friendly attractions, and tourist amenities to complement its provincial village vibe.
On the other side of the peninsula lies La Paz, which is quickly earning a reputation as a top-notch destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Popular tours in La Paz include boat trips to Espiritu Santo Island, where guests can swim with the sea lions and dive among sunken ships, as well as whale watching excursions.
Over on the sun-drenched Yucatan Peninsula, the ancient Maya cities of Tulum, Coba and Chichen Itza are a short drive from Playa del Carmen, which offers a stunning assortment of luxury resorts and villas. Visitors can also take a boat ride to the beautiful Isla Mujeres for a full day of snorkeling in turquoise waters.
Wherever you decide to travel in coastal Mexico, Sea Side Reservations can help you find the perfect accommodations for a truly spectacular vacation that is well within your budget. With luxury beachfront rental properties in Los Cabos, La Paz, Puerto Aventuras and everywhere in between, we are Mexico’s #1 provider of vacation rentals.
Additional Resources on Mexico Tourism & Travel:
- Xinhuanet, Mexico tourism numbers hit record high in 2017 http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2018-02/23/c_136993890.htm
- Journey Mexico, MEXICO TOURISM: FACTS & STATISTICS 2016 https://www.journeymexico.com/blog/mexico-tourism-facts-statistics-2016
- Deutsche Welle, Mexico marks record number of foreign tourist visits, revenue in early 2017 http://www.dw.com/en/mexico-marks-record-number-of-foreign-tourist-visits-revenue-in-early-2017/a-38807362
