The Rebirth of Tourism in Yucatán

If there was an industry affected by the COVID-19 outbreak, it was undoubtedly tourism. Many others found ways to adapt in order to survive: changing the nature of their products, expanding their service to home delivery or online, and even making adjustments to their target markets. None of this is within the realm of possibility for touristic product and service providers.

This blow was especially difficult for the industry in Yucatán, which was preparing for the most important tourism event in México when the first cycle of the quarantine began. We went from having the highest of expectations to a year and a half of uncertainty.

Perhaps that is why now, with even more determination, the entirety of the state joyfully (and with a healthy dose of curiosity) awaits the realization of the Tianguis Turístico Mérida 2021. We have never had such an event. Now that it’s finally here, it does justice to its name, “the rebirth of tourism.” For us, it represents a new opportunity, not only to show off our state, but also to enjoy and rediscover it ourselves: it has been more than a year since many of us have been to a cenote, an archaeological site, or the beach. We are ready to get to know Yucatán again!

We’re ready to organize a family outing, to celebrate a wedding, or a baptism, and overall, to take advantage of the extraordinary beauty of our state. Just like everyone who’s currently visiting us, whether they’re coming from Campeche or Indonesia, we are eager to get out. To enjoy our history in museums and archaeological sites; to admire birds in flight or listen to their song; to visit one of our fabulous Magical Towns; to marvel at the spectacular colors of the sunset.

Once again we see people in plazas, stores, and restaurants, as well as visitors in all the many places we are so proud of. At last we begin to feel that it is safe to resume plans and preparations. As much of the world finally returns to something resembling normalcy, the Tianguis Turístico and the economic reactivation of Yucatán effectively represent a rebirth for our state. It is a rebirth, a comeback, which we have the opportunity to not only witness, but also help build. Let’s participate with optimism and peace of mind in this historic moment. Let us all, residents and visitors, nationals and foreigners together (but safely), enjoy the wonders that await us here in Yucatán.

By Alicia Navarrete
Communicologist born circumstantially in Mexico City, but who says “uay” since 1985. Life has allowed me to see the world, which in turn has allowed me to discover how much I love the place where I live.