Minister Miguel Torruco Marqués
Genial hosts Mauricio Reyna & Roxana Ornelas
AM’s Michele Martinson
Savvy Canadian travel agents know that Mexico is much, much more than a beach destination. And for their culture vulture clients, Mexico City is a great recommendation: #2 in the world for museums (only behind London), 2,000 restaurants and 9 mystical archaeological ruins within the city limits.
These are just a few of the tidbits a crowd of Toronto agents and tour operators picked up at a reception held this week hosted by a team from Mexico City, including Miguel Torruco Marqués, Minister of Tourism of Mexico City.
You know a city is important when it appoints its own minister of tourism, and with a population of some 21 million, Mexico City takes tourism seriously. “With over 13 million visitors a year, Mexico City is the most visited urban area in Latin America,” Torruco Marqués told us. Last year 111,000 Canadians visited, up an impressive 17%. This year we’re already up 34% year over year.
And just as with sun destinations, it’s all about lift. There is currently daily service on board AeroMexico (which codeshares with WS and, interestingly, VIA). “And yes, we include meals, inflight entertainment, pillow, blanket – and even the tequila!” AeroMexico’s Michele Martinson said.
Tour operator Mexitours (www.mexitours.travel) is happy to help agents plan ground arrangements both on a customized basis – they are especially helpful in themed tours such as cuisine or archaeology – or on set itineraries. City/beach destination combos are also available.
“We have it all! Mexico City has it all!” Torruco Marqués enthused. Maybe it’s time even more Canadians discovered its charms!
