Progreso Prepares for Winter Tourism Influx

Progreso, Yucatan — Progreso has declared itself ready to receive thousands of national and foreign visitors during the December season, which marks the beginning of one of the most important periods for winter tourism in the port and its surrounding communities. Given the current behavior of the tourism sector, economic expectations for the remainder of the year are positive.

Unlike summer tourism, this time of year sees a particular phenomenon with the arrival of so-called “snowbirds,” tourists primarily from the United States, Canada, and Europe who travel to warm places like Yucatan during winter to escape the extreme cold in their countries for extended stays.

“In December, this mutation of tourism in our municipality begins. After the high season of carnival and summer, we now receive visitors who come to spend entire months in our communities, enjoying the Yucatan winter of 30 degrees,” said municipal president Erik Rihani.

He detailed that communities such as Chelem, Chicxulub, Chuburná, and other coastal areas have a constant presence of this type of international tourism, which represents a fundamental asset for the local economy by generating consumption in commerce, restaurants, services, housing rentals, and recreational activities.

He said the profile of foreign visitors has also evolved, as it is no longer just retired people but also young couples who work remotely, digital nomads, and families who choose Progreso for its quality of life, proximity to the sea, and tranquil atmosphere.

“Today we see more and more young people who come to work remotely, who enjoy the sea, the tranquility, the services, the gastronomy, and everything that Progreso and Yucatan have to offer,” he expressed.

Furthermore, he highlighted the growth of medical tourism, a segment that has gained relevance among foreign visitors who take advantage of their stay to receive care from specialists and high-quality health services at significantly lower costs than in their countries of origin.

“Many people come, receive treatment for various medical issues, and at the same time enjoy their stay. It’s a win-win: they take care of themselves and vacation,” added Erik Rihani.

He recalled that the December season also begins with an intense schedule of community events, following the lighting of the Christmas tree in the port.

“This type of tourism helps our communities a lot, reactivates the economy, and generates employment. It’s tourism that integrates into the daily life of the port,” he concluded.