Destinations

Cancun boasts strong summer numbers

The Cancun Convention & Visitors Bureau reports that Cancun had one of the best summer seasons in recent years with an approximate 88% hotel occupancy rate. Cancun International Airport received more than 7.4 million tourists, compared to 6.8 million who visited during the same time last year. Cancun saw a large influx of tourists from England, Russia, France and South America, with more than 40 flights a week arriving from those countries to Cancun’s airport. Whale sharks were one of Cancun’s most distinguished attractions this summer. The gentle creatures gather off the coast of Isla Mujeres more than any other place in the world and give visitors a chance to catch a glimpse and swim in open water with them. The Cancun Underwater Museum, the world’s largest underwater museum, also attracted tourists as approximately 60 new sculptures were added this year. Cancun also welcomed several new hotels this summer, including the Hard Rock Hotel Cancun, with its signature Rock Star suites and its collection of memorabilia from international and local music artists. Secrets The Vine, which offers an adults-only luxury experience with gourmet dining options, 24 hour room service, daily activities, nightly performances, elite services and superior amenities, also opened. Riu Palace Peninsula, characterized by its architecture, palace-style decoration, and 24-hour all inclusive program, debuted this season as well. (http://www.cancun.travel)