TORONTO — Tourism in the Mexican Caribbean “is back,” with hotel occupancy last month sitting at a healthy 59% throughout the state.

This is even more significant considering that current hotel capacity in the region is still at 85% of normal conditions, says Laura Nesteanu, Account Manager, Canada at Global Marketing & Sales, Inc., which represents the Mexican Caribbean in Canada.

During a media reception last night in Toronto, Nesteanu highlighted the many reasons why the Mexican Caribbean, which includes such popular destinations as Riviera Maya, Cancun and Playa del Carmen, should be top of mind among Canadian vacationers this winter.

For one thing, there is no vaccination mandate to enter Mexico, making it easy for sun-seekers to visit. However, this isn’t to say the destination isn’t taking health and safety seriously – on the contrary, says Nesteanu.

“The Mexican Caribbean was the first destination to receive the Safe Travels designation from the WTTC, with everyone in the travel industry onboard, from hotels and DMCs, to transportation and taxis,” she says. “Plus, because hotels have to take care of their reputation and make people feel comfortable, they also require employees to be vaccinated. Even the government doesn’t require vaccination for employees. And the 5% of those who haven’t been vaccinated yet have been reassigned to areas where they don’t have direct contact with travellers.”

While the majority of Canadians travel to the Riviera Maya, Nesteanu says there are so many other options that should be considered, namely in the southern region where eco-tourism has become a staple offering.

“You can stay away from the crowds, especially on small islands where there are no cars – it’s just you. You can see the whole island just by walking,” she says.

The Mexican Caribbean is currently on a seven-city road show across Canada. For more information about travel to the region go to https://www.mexicancaribbean.travel/.