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After a record summer, some of Mexico’s most famous hotspots continue to grow in popularity at an unprecedented pace.
Destinations like Bacalar, Cancun and Costa Mujeres have all seen a notable 5-7% increase in tourists compared to the same time last year, showing that the Mexican Caribbean will only become more popular as time goes by.
However, there is one particular coastal city in the region that is surpassing even these wildly famous hotspots in terms of tourism growth, boasting a whopping 9.7% increase in the number of visitors from 2022.
Chetumal – A gem hidden in plain sight
Although Chetumal has been the capital of Quintana Roo since 1902, when the state was separated from the rest of the Yucatán Peninsula, it has managed to fly somewhat under the radar in the international travel world.
With tourists flocking to flashy nearby destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Cozumel, Chetumal is generally seen as more of a regional hub and gateway to southern Mexico and Belize.
While the city’s beaches are just as stunning as those of the more famous summer hotspots, its reputation as a cultural and historical center has sometimes given vacationers pause, causing them to opt for Cancun or Tulum instead.
However, as the numbers suggest, there has been a shift in tourists’ perception of the city in recent times.
It’s hard to say whether this change can be attributed to Chetumal’s promotion as a travel hotspot or simply the fact that ever-increasing crowds and prices make better-known destinations seem overrated.
What we do know is that the capital has seen a tourist growth of 9.7% compared to the same period last year, making it the fastest growing destination in one of the most popular regions in the world, and that’s no easy feat.
What the city has to offer
Such an increase in visitor numbers is not only achieved by a good promotional plan; the city must offer the experience of a lifetime to keep tourists coming back for more.
Historical value
Chetumal is a renowned cultural and historical centre, on which it is based the location of a former Mayan settlement.
As you would expect, there are many heritage sites and attractions in the area, with some must-sees:
- Museum of Mayan Culture
- Archaeological zone of Kohunlich
- Museum of the city of Chetumal
- Renaissance statue
Authentic Caribbean feeling
At a time when some of Quintana Roo’s biggest hotspots are so overrun with tourists that they feel more American than anything, Chetumal still has an authentic Caribbean feel that’s hard to find in international hubs like Cancun.
Holidaymakers will be able to relax and fully enjoy the experience of a Mexican-Caribbean region, complete with the relaxed atmosphere, friendly locals and truly traditional food.
That’s because the city was built to serve its 170,000 residents rather than foreign tourists, so the establishments here maintain a sense of authenticity.
By comparison, Tulum has a population of about 47,000 and welcomes as many as 100,000 2 million tourists a year.
These numbers clearly show that the shops, restaurants and infrastructure here are built to cater to international tourists, losing some of the typical Mexican-Caribbean feel.
Plenty to see and do
While Chetumal’s party scene may not be as vibrant as Cancun’s, tourists will still find plenty to do and see in the city.
In addition to its many interesting sights, the capital boasts a wide range of accommodation options, restaurants, exciting events and outdoor adventure activities that suit all types of travelers and budgets.
Beautiful scenery
Those looking for photo-worthy views this fall will find Chetumal the ideal destination.
The beautiful cenotes, idyllic beaches and underwater tunnels are nothing short of breathtaking, so make sure you plan a trip long enough to experience it all.
You’re also less than 40 minutes from Bacalar Lagoon. Although locals and tourists have fondly called the attraction ‘The Maldives of Mexico’, I believe this comparison does not do the place justice.
The combination of colors, terrains and textures you see here is unlike anything else in the world.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
