TULUM, Mexico – In response to the low season and decreased tourist traffic on the beaches of Jaguar Park, water activity providers in Tulum have initiated “solidarity days” among their staff.
Alonso Gutiérrez Sánchez, a local boatman, explained that they usually have one day off a week, but now they will be working four to five days a week.
He elaborated that the staff understands that this time of year isn’t as fruitful, so they organize themselves to ensure everyone can generate income as fairly as possible.
Gutiérrez Sánchez revealed that they are currently operating at around 30% hotel occupancy, but they hope to see an economic boost on weekends with the arrival of Mexican and foreign tourists, as well as Tulum residents.
He noted that the flow of tourists has been reduced because vacation season has ended, and there are ongoing projects such as the restructuring of the Jaguar National Park and the 58-peso fee imposed by the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (Conanp) for beach access.
However, Gutiérrez Sánchez expressed that the beaches now sport a sargassum-free image, highlighting their pristine white sands and turquoise blue waters. He added that they hope this can be promoted to attract both domestic and international tourists.
He explained that alongside the archaeological zone, the beaches are the biggest draw for tourists, and he anticipates that with this clean image, visitors will be enticed to hire their water services to explore the reefs.
