Tourism officials in the Mexican Caribbean are reassuring travellers following recent cartel violence in the state of Jalisco, located over 1,000 miles away on Mexico’s Pacific coast.

According to tourism authorities in the State of Quintana Roo, tourism activity continues to operate normally, with destinations across the region recording an average hotel occupancy of 85.4% between Feb. 21 and 28, and an estimated 574,706 visitors during that period.

Officials say all 12 tourism destinations in the state — which include popular vacation spots such as Cancún, Riviera Maya and Cozumel — are operating without interruption. Airports, ports, cruise terminals, transportation services, hotel zones, public beaches and attractions continue to function as usual, providing visitors with regular access to tourism services and experiences.

Violence in Jalisco state – which includes Puerto Vallarta – broke out in late February, prompting a travel advisory from the government to shelter in place. Many airlines temporarily cancelled or diverted flights into Puerto Vallarta. 

Despite the fact that Cancun is more than 2,000 kilometres away from Puerto Vallarta, travel advisors said that clients were cancelling their upcoming Cancun vacations.

Strong Air & Cruise Traffic

Tourism authorities in the state of Quintana Roo report continued strong connectivity into the destination.

A total of 4,969 air operations were recorded across the state’s four international airports during the week of Feb. 21 and 28. On a single day alone, 707 flight operations were registered, reflecting the steady flow of visitors arriving in the region.

Cruise traffic also remained strong. Fifty-five cruise ships docked in the ports of Mahahual and Cozumel during the same period, bringing an estimated 146,300 cruise passengers.

Positive Visitor Experience

Beaches and major tourism areas throughout the Mexican Caribbean have continued to see strong visitation, with travellers enjoying a wide range of attractions including hotels, restaurants, public plazas and recreational activities.

Officials said testimonials collected from visitors across several destinations highlight the region’s welcoming atmosphere, family-friendly environment and the diversity of tourism experiences available.

The state government, under the leadership of Governor Mara Lezama, said it continues to work closely with federal and municipal authorities as well as tourism industry partners to ensure tourism operations remain safe, orderly and efficient during the busy travel season.

With high occupancy levels, strong air connectivity and continued cruise arrivals, tourism officials say the Mexican Caribbean remains fully operational and welcoming visitors from both domestic and international markets.