Reviving Acapulco Tourism

Acapulco Plans for All New Developments: Airport Terminal, Hotels, Golf Courses, Entertainment Venues, and the Return of Tianguis Turístico

Acapulco is an ideal destination for wellness travel

Acapulco is an ideal destination for wellness travel (photo by Acapulco Tourism)

It was recently announced that Acapulco will be receiving a billion dollar investment to boost the destination’s infrastructure and tourism allure. 

But with all that has been taking place or being shown in the news over the last few years, will it be enough to help convince potential tourists, travel agents, cruise ships, airlines, tour operators  and the general public that the destination is safe? 

Acapulco for the business traveler

Acapulco for the business traveler (photo by Acapulco Tourism)

According to Acapulco Destination Marketing Office, Grupo Autofin (a Mexican investment firm) is funding $1 billion into Acapulco in a variety of areas including 6,000 additional hotel rooms, golf courses, entertainment venues, a zip line and a hospital. The group expects the investment to create 10,000 jobs over the next six years.

Snorkeling in Acapulco (photo by Acapulco Tourism)

Snorkeling in Acapulco (photo by Acapulco Tourism)

“We are thrilled with the new investments from the private sector into the destination,” said Pedro Haces Sordo, president of the Acapulco Destination Marketing Office. “These projects go along with our promise to keep Acapulco modern and on the forefront of the travel industry, positioning itself as a top beach destination in Mexico.”

Acapulco for the nature or animal lover (photo by Acapulco Tourism)

Acapulco for the nature or animal lover (photo by Acapulco Tourism)

But, besides Acapulco itself, who is championing the destination? Many (North) Americans still reference Acapulco from its hay day, once known for its old Hollywood allure. But what about Hollywood today? For many, Acapulco’s stigma of crime and safety issues still exists. Does the destination have what it takes to reenergize and position itself back into one of Mexico’s leading tourism destinations? 

Acapulco has the potential. 

  • Posadas Group is also investing more than USD $85M for the construction of the Fiesta Americana Grand Acapulco Diamante (350 luxury rooms, three swimming pools, conference rooms, and four exclusive restaurants) 
  • The Mayan Palace Playa will be opening this winter (December 2016) with 180 rooms, as well as La Plaza commercial building with a gourmet market and boutique. 
  • Princess Mundo Imperial Hotel has rebranded and will renovate 1,000 rooms
  • Acapulco will welcome these new properties, set to open within the next two to four years:
  • Prince Hotel (2,000 luxury rooms)
  • Marqués Boutique Hotel (85 luxury rooms and 15 ocean-view suites)
  • Only You Boutique Hotel (54 ocean-view rooms with terrace)
  • Retiro Diamante (Retreat residences for the elderly)
  • In 2017, Acapulco will host Tianguis Turístico, Mexico’s largest and most important travel trade show. The destination has been home to Tianguis since 1975, except for the following years:

2012: Vallarta-Nayarit

2013: Puebla

2014: Cancun

(2015: Acapulco)

2016: Guadalajara

“We are proud of the return of Tianguis to Acapulco because it shows that we have what it takes, that we have the trust of the federal tourism authorities and of the industry and it enables us to showcase all the positive factors that differentiate Acapulco and that deserve attention,” said Ernesto Rodriguez Escalona, Secretary of Tourism of the State of Guerrero. “The event will give us the opportunity to show an improved infrastructure and world-class tourist offering.”

New airport terminal in Acapulco

New airport terminal in Acapulco (rendering by Acapulco Tourism)

The city is also upgrading its transportation systems with a macrotunnel to connect the Traditional Zone, known as Old Acapulco, with the new Diamante district. This tunnel is expected to be inaugurated Dec 2016 – Jan 2017, in time for Tianguis, according to Pedro Haces. 

With the goal of maintaining a safe environment for tourists, local and state authorities have been working closely with authorities at the Federal level and the private sector to take actions that will contribute to regaining the trust of those who visit the destination. The destination has also created the Tourist Information and Assistance Center, CAPTA, to provide resources and assistance to visitors.

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Susie Albin-Najera
Susie Albin-Najera is the creator and editor of The Mexico Report, an award winning travel blog showcasing news, deals and resources for the modern traveler. Najera is a writer, author, travel blogger, marketing and public relations specialist and producer. Najera serves on the host committee for Maestro Cares, founded by singer Marc Anthony and producer Henry Cardenas; and on the advisory board for Corazon de Vida, providing aid to children in Mexico. She is also the creator of 'The Real Heroes of Mexico' showcasing community heroes in Mexico and producer of Latino Thought Makers. Najera has been recognized by the Mexican Consulate and Mexico Tourism Board for fostering positive relations between countries and her dedication to showcasing Mexico as a premiere destination. She can be reached at info@themexicoreport.com

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