It’s no secret that Quintana Roo has a problem with growing violence, not to mention its sargassum-covered beaches.
Taking note of the situation, tourism officials and business leaders see an opportunity to funnel more tourism into neighboring Yucatán.
“Lots of people are beginning to see Cancún and other destinations in Quintana Roo as no longer viable. We have to work to make them aware that here in Yucatán we also have fantastic beaches and more than enough to keep the whole family entertained in a safe environment,” said David Escalante Lombard, president of Yucatán’s travel agency association.
Being recognized as the safest state in Mexico provides Yucatán with a significant leg up when it comes to attracting tourists, especially families.
However, the fact that many of the state’s beaches are virtually sargassum free, combined with efforts to improve infrastructure and bring new attractions, certainly does not hurt.
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Government representatives and the private sector alike are expecting a busier than usual summer season in Yucatán, fueled mainly by domestic travelers.
But international tourism is far from being off the state’s radar. Work is being done to improve infrastructure at both airports and Progreso’s cruise dock.
“Yucatán is a state that has everything. Our job is to make sure that the market gets this message and that once they are here they have the best time possible,” said state tourism secretary Michelle Fridman.
Some of Yucatán’s most important tourism destinations include the world-famous Chichén Itzá, as well the state’s many cenotes and beaches, including Progreso, Celestun, and Sisal.