Background on Tulum’s Situation
Tulum, a popular tourist destination in Mexico’s Caribbean region, is experiencing its worst summer season in a decade. The town’s hotel occupancy rate has plummeted to 40%, the lowest it has been in ten years, according to Jorge Portillo Mánica, the seventh regidor (council member) of Tulum’s local government.
Factors Contributing to the Decline
- Sargasso Sea: The influx of sargasso seaweed has negatively impacted Tulum’s beaches, deterring tourists.
- Decreased Flight Occupancy: The town is experiencing a critical drop in air travel, with some hotels reporting only one or two occupied rooms, a situation not seen in many years.
Impact on Airlines and Future Prospects
Jorge Portillo Mánica warned that the low profitability of flights to Tulum has led some airlines, including Copa, Avianca, and Alaska Airlines, to announce the cancellation of routes to this destination. He emphasized that without immediate action, the situation could worsen in the short and medium term.
Efforts to Boost Tourism
To counteract the decline in tourist arrivals, Portillo Mánica organized a press conference to introduce the Aura Music Fest, taking place on August 14th, 15th, and 16th. The event will feature music, gastronomy, fashion, and Mayan culture, supported by local authorities, business leaders, and Visit México.
Government Intervention and Future Steps
Portillo Mánica called for an urgent plan from all levels of government to address Tulum’s crisis. He plans to request a meeting with Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama and even the Mexico City President, Claudia Sheinbaum, to present the dire situation facing Tulum.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is causing Tulum’s tourism decline? The primary factors are the sargasso seaweed affecting beaches and a significant decrease in flight occupancy.
- Which airlines have canceled routes to Tulum? Copa, Avianca, and Alaska Airlines have announced the cancellation of flights to Tulum.
- What event is being organized to boost tourism in Tulum? The Aura Music Fest, featuring music, gastronomy, fashion, and Mayan culture, is set to take place on August 14th, 15th, and 16th.
- What actions is Jorge Portillo Mánica taking to address the crisis? He is seeking urgent government intervention and planning a meeting with Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama and Mexico City President Claudia Sheinbaum to discuss the situation.
