Tourism is one of Mexico’s most significant monetary sectors. The country isn’t only promoting hot vacation destinations like Cancun, Cabo San Lucas and others, but also smaller towns, cities and regions with incredible experiences such as the Mexico helicopter tour that are new to visitors.
Attractions include the pristine beaches, ancient ruins and colorful cultures. The growing tourism industry puts increasing pressure on the beautiful landscapes of the country.
Eco-tourism
Mexico is a country of natural diversity, with flora ranging from tropical rain forests to deserts. With a vast range of environmental zones, there are many opportunities for ecotourism activities and responsible travel adventures. Ecotourism isn’t something you have to trek through the wilderness to find. There are plenty of ways to learn about local fauna and flora while supporting local communities.
The term ‘ecotourism’ was first introduced to the world in 1983, by a Mexican government urban planner and environmentalist named Hector Ceballos-Lascurain. He used the phrase to describe tourism that “involves travelling to relatively undisturbed natural areas for the purpose of studying, admiring and enjoying the scenery, as well as its wild plants and animals and any existing cultural aspects found there”.
Today, ecotourism is a highly-debated topic among travel professionals and conservationists. There is a thin line between protecting biodiversity while promoting tourism. It can feel like the two are on opposing sides of the fence. Conservationists shiver at amusement park labels as eco-tourism, while tourism firms scoff when environmentalists create complex tour itineraries.
But tourism is the engine of local economies. It’s vital to strike a healthy balance between conservation and sustainable travel. Ecotourism doesn’t require you to travel to the jungle. You can support local communities in urban areas and conserve biodiversity. For example, you can explore Mexico City on a sustainable food tour with a knowledgeable guide while learning about Mexican cuisine, architecture and history, and staying at an environmentally conscious hotel. Or, head to San Pancho in the Pacific state of Nayarit to swim with sea lions and experience a slower pace of life in a community with a passion for their people and their environment.
Beaches
With the Caribbean Sea to its east and the Pacific Ocean to its west, Mexico has a wealth of sandy shorelines that have earned the country a global reputation as one of the best beach getaway destinations in the world. The beaches at Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Cabo San Lucas are popular with visitors from all over the globe who come to soak up the sun and enjoy the crashing waves of this coastal playground.
But while the beaches of this enchanting country are a major draw for many international tourists, these coastal regions are also home to incredible biodiversity. The nation’s pristine coast ecosystem is home around 10% of all reptile and mammal types in the world and ranks second in marine mammals diversity.
Ecotourism is relatively new in Mexico, but it has become more important to travelers who want to experience the natural beauty and diversity of this beautiful country. Mexico will be the second most visited country in the world by international tourists after the United States, Canada, France, Spain and Turkey.
Nightlife
Mexico is a country with a lot to offer. It’s got the jaw-dropping culture and food that you’d expect, but it also has an exciting nightlife scene that caters to every kind of traveler. Whether you’re a history buff or a wild party-goer, you’ll find plenty of options in Mexico City.
Mexico’s tourism industry has become a major economic force. More than 4.5 millions jobs are provided by the industry, which accounts for over 8% of Mexico’s GDP. It’s no wonder that people want to visit the country. It is estimated that more than 45 million tourists will visit the country and spend $25 billion. The biggest moneymaker is coastal tourism, as visitors flock to resorts that were once deserted.
Tijuana is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, thanks to its exciting museums, cutting-edge art galleries and delicious cuisine. The city is also known for its Red Light District which is the second-largest in the world behind Amsterdam. If you’re planning to visit this beautiful Mexican destination, then make sure to check out Mono, one of the city’s best clubs. The club features top DJs and stays open until early morning. The club, located in a 100-year-old house in Juarez, offers a fantastic party atmosphere.
Culture
Mexico is one of most culturally diverse countries in the world. Its beautiful vistas, ancient ruin sites, and vibrant cultures attract tourists from all over the world. Tourism is an important economic driver that can help alleviate poverty in rural areas. It also boosts the education system and creates new jobs.
The country’s natural environment is also a major draw for tourists. The Mexican desert is home to many different species of plants and animals, and the country ranks third in global mammal diversity. Cabo San Lucas is located on the coast of Baja California. It is home to some of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches, and it is also a habitat for marine wildlife.
Mexico’s tourism industry has grown to be a major source of foreign currency earnings. The government also prioritizes the use of tourism as a tool for reconciliation. Mexico ranked ninth on the list of top ten destinations when it came to foreign exchange earnings generated by international tourism. Mexico is also working to improve sustainable tourism and promote local development.
In addition to preserving the nation’s natural environment, tourism in Mexico is also helping to alleviate poverty among its people. The government hopes to create employment opportunities in the disadvantaged areas by promoting sustainable tourism. The government is also investing in infrastructure projects that will expand tourism to previously isolated regions.
The culture of Mexico is very welcoming, and expats will find that the locals are friendly and polite. For example, it’s common to greet strangers by kissing their cheek. In addition, it is customary to say ‘provecho’ (enjoy your meal) to other diners at a restaurant. This open communication is a great way for expats to get familiar with the Mexican culture.
Food
Mexico is the seventh-most popular tourism destination in the entire world. It brings in more than 25 billion dollars annually from tourists. Most of these tourists are drawn to the country’s famous coastal resort destinations, such as Cancun and Akumal. In the same year, tourism accounted for over 4% of Mexico’s GDP and employed more than 4.5 million people across the country.
Although the Mexican tourism industry took a hit during the COVID-19 pandemic, it has rebounded quickly thanks to a number of government policies. These include the promotion of healthy destinations, investment in infrastructure projects and a focus on sustainability. Moreover, a successful campaign last year called Dear Country led to a high influx of tourists, both from abroad and within the country. This year, a new campaign titled Dear State feeds off this success and shines the spotlight on both old and new tourist hotspots.
