Preparations for this months’ Tianguis Turistico event are well underway in Acapulco, but the classic beach destination is also looking forward to the rest of year, during which numerous investment projects will reach completion.
According to Guerrero’s Ministry of Tourism, approximately $20 million have gone into renovating the main tourist zone in downtown Acapulco, in addition to enhancements in other areas. The investment projects are partially a response to increased tourism in the area — in 2014, from January to August, Acapulco experienced its largest number of visitors in the past five years, and summer of 2014 saw a 15.7 percent increase in guests.
Below are infrastructure projects that travelers can expect to improve the Acapulco experience.
New in Downtown
Many visitors spend time in and around Caleta and Caletilla, and the beach area will soon feature a new bridge extending to the pier and the plaza as well as a new design that incorporates Acapulco’s tropical environment.
Nearby sights such as El Zocalo, La Roqueta and La Diana will also be refreshed, and new walkways throughout downtown and around the Port of Acapulco aim to improve accessibility.
Transportation Enhancements
To improve passenger experience and support demand, Acapulco International Airport will open a new air terminal. Phase one of the construction project is set to open this month, and the final phase will be completed by 2016. The destination is also looking forward to the return of 10 Norwegian Cruise Line ships, according the Guerrero’s Ministry of Tourism.
Additionally, the city aims to improve local transportation with a new macro tunnel known as “Scenic Alternative Acapulco.” The tunnel will connect the Diamante and Traditional zones and is designed to decrease travel time between the two areas.
Improved and New Accommodations
Acapulco’s newest hotel, the 814-room Mundo Imperial, opened in September of 2014 with 400 suites, and the remaining 400 suites will open later this year. Set in the Diamante zone, the resort is the latest addition to the Expo Mundo Imperial Complex and offers a convention center, numerous shops and entertainment venues, a spa and a state-of-the-art concert hall.
Established hotels that were recently renovated include Hotel Boca Chica and Hotel Encanto. In 2016, the Diamante zone will be home to a brand new Fiesta Americana Grand property, thanks to an $85 million investment from Mexican hotel company Grupo Posada. The hotel will feature 350 luxury rooms, meeting spaces, three themed pools and four specialty restaurants.
The Details
Tianguis Turistico
www.tianguisturistico.com
Visit Mexico
www.visitmexico.com
