Controversial Mexico Railway Is Uncertain Factor in Yucatán Tourism
Photo Caption: A simulated image of the Tren Maya. The Mexican government is planning to build hotels alongside it. Source: FONATUR, Fondo Nacional de Fomento al Turismo
Skift Take
The Mexican government aims to steer travelers toward less explored areas on the Yucatán Peninsula via a tourist train. But those efforts could backfire if it doesn't improve infrastructure where it's needed.
Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador confirmed that six hotels will be built alongside the Tren Maya, a controversial railway that aims to provide access to the Yucatan Peninsula's most popular tourist attractions.
So how is the Mexican hotel industry reacting to the project, which has attracted heavy criticism due to concerns it could endanger wilderness and ancient caves? Sector executives are taking a wait-and-see approach.
“Hotel owners remain in waiting," said Dirk Urban, director of UP Consultoria, a Playa del Carmen, México-based consultancy firm involved in hotel projects. "Plans are still changing."
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