Golf Tourism Booms in Mexican Caribbean

Quintana Roo, Mexico — Golf tourism continues its growth in the Mexican Caribbean, now representing 15 percent of the vacationers arriving at the destination annually. This segment generates stays of four to five days and an economic impact of 3,500 dollars per trip, according to Gina Fombona, CEO of Swing Travel And Golf.

Fombona stated that travelers who journey to practice this sport are of high purchasing power, as access to the courses ranges between 1,500 and 3,000 pesos. Consequently, it is a segment that stimulates economic activity, as these visitors generally play at different facilities during their stay.

She commented that the Mexican Caribbean has 13 golf courses, all of which comply with international standards. In fact, they hold the PGA certification, which distinguishes them for their infrastructure quality; therefore, there is potential to increase the flow of tourists who travel specifically to practice this discipline.

She added that travel agencies even mobilize groups of tourists focused on this segment and organize golf tournaments and a series of activities that promote the practice of the sport, which is gaining more enthusiasts every day.

Fombona mentioned that currently, golf tourism represents 15 percent of the total travelers arriving in Quintana Roo's destinations, and the goal is to reach 20 percent, given that there are courses in Playa del Carmen, Cancún, Cozumel, and Costa Mujeres.

Regarding national tourism and local players, she said that the practice of golf now has greater openness. In fact, it is not necessary to be a member of a club to enter a course, where there are even exclusive promotions for Mexican players.