Mexico's International Tourism Flourishes in the First Quarter

A Surge in Tourism Revenue and Arrivals

Mexico's allure as a global travel destination continues to strengthen, as evidenced by the latest data from the country's Tourism Secretariat (Sectur). In the first three months of the year, international tourism revenues soared to US$3.758 billion, marking a significant 14.6 percent increase from the same period in 2006. The number of international tourists arriving in Mexico also rose, reaching 3.6 million—a robust 8.3 percent growth from the first quarter of 2006 and a 1.2 percent uptick from the first quarter of 2005.

A Positive Tourism Trade Balance

The tourism trade balance for Mexico, which reflects the difference between what foreign tourists spend in the country and what Mexican tourists spend abroad, showed an impressive 31.5 percent increase. The balance stood at US$1.946 billion, compared to US$1.480 billion reported in the first quarter of 2006.

Cruise Ship Tourism on the Rise

The cruise ship industry in Mexico has bounced back remarkably from the setbacks caused by Hurricane Wilma in 2005. The latest statistics reveal a surge of 78,000 more international visitors arriving via cruise ships in the first quarter of 2007 compared to the same period in 2006. Revenue from cruise ship tourism also experienced a nearly 20 percent increase, reaching US$173.8 million.

U.S. Travelers Undeterred by Passport Requirements

Despite initial concerns from the Mexican government regarding the impact of new passport requirements for travelers returning to the United States, the numbers tell a different story. U.S. travel to Mexico has actually increased, with 15 percent more Americans visiting during the first quarter of this year than in the same period of 2006. "These numbers demonstrate that requiring a passport has not deterred Americans from traveling to Mexico," stated Rodolfo Elizondo, Mexico's Secretary of Tourism.

The Mexico Tourism Board: A Collaborative Effort

The Mexico Tourism Board (MTB) is a collaborative effort that unites the resources of federal and state governments, municipalities, and private companies to promote Mexico's tourism attractions and destinations both nationally and internationally. Established in 1999, the MTB is the nation's tourism promotion agency, with a network of offices across North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America.

Chichen-Itza: A Candidate for the New Seven World Wonders

Chichen-Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998, is in the running to become one of the new Seven World Wonders. This ancient Mayan city in Yucatan State is one of 21 finalists selected by the Swiss-based New7Wonders Foundation. As one of Mexico's largest and most impressive archaeological sites, Chichen-Itza represents the grandeur of Mayan civilization. To support Chichen-Itza in this global initiative, votes can be cast on the New7Wonders website.

For press inquiries, additional story ideas, or general travel and tourism information about Mexico, the MTB's North American Press Room can be contacted directly at 1-800-929-4555.

Erick Laseca Mexico Tourism Board 312-228-0517 ext14 erick.laseca@bm.com Visit Mexico

Interesting Stats and Trends

While the article highlights the growth in tourism revenue and arrivals, there are additional interesting trends worth noting:

• Mexico's tourism sector contributes to 8.7% of the country's GDP, according to data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
• The country is ranked as the 7th most visited in the world, with over 45 million international visitors in 2019, as reported by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
• Adventure tourism in Mexico is on the rise, with a growing interest in activities such as diving in the cenotes of Yucatan and whale watching in Baja California.

These trends demonstrate Mexico's diverse appeal and its ability to attract a wide range of tourists seeking cultural, historical, and adventure experiences.