Background on Acapulco and Hurricane Otis
Acapulco, a renowned Mexican beach resort city, has been making significant strides in recovering from the devastating impact of Hurricane Otis, which struck a year and a half ago. The city’s hotel industry, a crucial component of its economy, has shown remarkable resilience.
The Hotel Industry in Acapulco
Before Hurricane Otis, Acapulco boasted an impressive hotel offering with 19,600 rooms. This industry not only provided employment opportunities but also attracted tourists from around the globe, contributing substantially to the local economy.
Current Status and Recovery Efforts
According to the Municipal Tourism Secretariat, as of 2023, prior to the hurricane’s impact, there were 19,600 hotel rooms in Acapulco. José Luis Smithers Jiménez, the president of the AHETA (Acapulco Hotel Association), reported that 15,004 of these rooms are now operational.
This signifies that Acapulco has recovered approximately 75% of its hotel offering, demonstrating the city’s determination and progress in rebuilding after the hurricane.
Impact on Tourism and Local Economy
The recovery of the hotel industry is vital for Acapulco’s tourism sector, which has been a significant contributor to the city’s economy. With more hotels reopening, the city is expected to see an increase in tourist arrivals, leading to a boost in local businesses such as restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current status of Acapulco’s hotel industry? As of 2023, approximately 75% of Acapulco’s hotel offering has been recovered, with 15,004 out of 19,600 rooms now operational.
- Who is José Luis Smithers Jiménez, and why is he relevant? José Luis Smithers Jiménez is the president of AHETA (Acapulco Hotel Association). His insights on the hotel industry’s recovery are crucial as he provides updates on the number of operational rooms.
- How does the recovery of the hotel industry impact Acapulco’s economy? The reopening of hotels contributes to an increase in tourist arrivals, which in turn benefits local businesses and stimulates the city’s economy.
