Izamal, one of Yucatán’s most iconic destinations, is ready to welcome thousands of visitors during Holy Week, with a packed schedule of cultural and sports activities aimed at boosting economic growth and extending tourists’ stays in the Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town). This was stated by Mayor Melissa Puga Rodríguez, who highlighted her administration’s efforts to enhance the municipality’s tourist appeal.
“What we have seen in the last six years is that people arrive, visit the Convent and the Pyramid, and leave. Our main objective is to increase overnight stays, which is why we have implemented activities such as concerts, cultural Saturdays and Sundays, and the rehabilitation of the pyramids,” explained the mayor.
Among the events scheduled for this season are the Maya Rally, the Cat Power concert, a marathon, and a bicycle race.
Additionally, Puga Rodríguez revealed that talks are underway to bring the Oaxacan festival, La Guelaguetza, to Izamal, which would add two weeks of shows and activities aimed at consolidating the municipality as an ideal destination for cultural and recreational tourism in southeastern Mexico.
“Hotel occupancy is already at its maximum for the entire Holy Week. This shows that our strategies are working and that more and more tourists are choosing to stay longer in Izamal,” he commented.
Regarding restaurateurs, the mayor acknowledged that there has been a decline in economic activity in recent weeks, but reiterated that the key to improving the situation is organizing events that attract visitors.
“We have many high-quality restaurants, and with these activities, we hope to channel tourists to them,” she added. She also mentioned that thanks to the tourism boom, local businesses have seen a greater influx of customers during past events, which suggests an improvement in the region’s economy.
Melissa Puga also highlighted the historical and cultural value of Izamal, noting that every stone and every pyramid tells a story.
“Izamal is a site of great cultural richness; it is home to the chambers of the Mayan god Itzamná. Our goal is to strengthen the city’s historical identity and offer enriching tourist experiences.”
She also announced that the number of trained tour guides will be strengthened to tell visitors about Izamal’s history and culture.
TYT Newsroom
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