“Dive into the Slowdown: Playa del Carmen Bar Scene Struggles Amid Tourism Slump”

Playa del Carmen is experiencing an unprecedented drop in summer visitor numbers. The slump in tourism is forcing bar and nightclub workers on Quinta Avenida to adapt to the downturn.

“I’ve worked in this industry for many years and used to believe that the LGBT community didn't have a low season. However, for the first time, this summer feels sluggish. Our occupancy is at 50 percent on weekends. Our venue can accommodate around 300 people, so based on entry statistics, we're looking at 100 people on a busy Saturday. This season is proving to be very slow,” one worker explained.

Jorge Alberto Guillén suggested that the low numbers may be due to changes in national and international governments. He noted the current situation in the United States under Donald Trump, which has had a significant impact on Mexico. However, he remains hopeful that this transition period will pass. He also mentioned plans to lobby the new municipal administration for support, with the goal of establishing a civil association to advocate for the rights of the LGBTTTIQ+ community.

When asked about the state of LGBT tourism in Playa del Carmen, particularly given its prominence in the Riviera Maya's wedding industry, Guillén responded, “I firmly believe that Playa del Carmen needs more promotion. The community comes here to spend money and have fun. We're talking about an annual revenue of 15 million dollars, but I think that's an underestimate. The community contributes significantly more, yet the tourism sector hasn't recognized this and shifted its focus accordingly.”

Despite the current economic challenges, there are plans to establish a safe "Zona Rosa" (Pink Zone). This project aims to ensure the community's voices are heard and considered, given the significant revenue they generate globally. The creation of a Zona Rosa could soon become a reality in Playa del Carmen.