Mexico: Tourism

1. Tourism is extremely important to Mexico. In 2013, tourism was reported as the fifth-largest revenue source for Mexico and remains an extremely important economic sector. According to a financial study done by JP Morgan Chase, tourism in Mexico generated $12.7 billion in 'foreign exchange inflows' during 2012. It's interesting to note that the number of tourists in Mexico continues to grow, regardless of the increase in drug-related violence throughout Mexico. In fact, Mexico is often the most frequently visited country by Americans. In 2011, there were approximately 22 million tourists that visited Mexico. 


"In August 2011 Mexico saw an increased number of visitors from 145 countries around the world (year on year)."

• Brazil (59.5%)         Russia (55%)         Ecuador (29.6%)        Australia (22.6%)

• Argentina (21%)     UK(19.6%)             Korea (18.9%)            Chile (15.9%)

• Peru (15.1%)           China (14.2%)       Italy (13.1%)               Japan (10.6%)

• Canada (9.2%)        Colombia (8.7%)"

2. There is a variety of major tourist attractions in Mexico. Many people and their families travel to the country in search of beach resort destinations or other relaxing atmospheres. Locations such as Cancun and Rivera Maya have been rated some of the top vacation destinations by leading travel companies. There are many city destinations in Mexico that are attractive to tourists. These cities include Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Morelia. Also, beaches such as Cabo San Lucas are also very popular. In addition to vacation destinations, there are also many aspects of history and culture that are attractive to tourists. In the central and southern parts of Mexico, it's possible to visit ancient Meso-American ruins.

3. Mexico is home to large amounts of national parks and wildlife. There are more than sixty federally-recognized national wildlife parks within the country of Mexico. These areas are home to many species of plants and animals. In addition to these national parks, there is also a substantial collection of "Reserves of the Biosphere". For example, the Scorpion Reef is the largest reef within the Gulf of Mexico, and it is a Reserve of the Biosphere. The reef contains five different islands, but only one is inhabited. This reef is one of the largest national parks in Mexico. 


4. History and culture are very important within the country of Mexico. Therefore, there are countless museums within the country. However, some of the most significant museums are located in Mexico City. The National Anthropology Museum of Mexico is located in Mexico City. Also in the City there is the National Art Museum, the National Modern Art Museum, and the National History Museum. Interestingly enough, Mexico City itself is a very popular museum destination and is home to over 100 museums.