Cancun Was The Second Most Visited Destination In The World For 2021

The Mexican Caribbean City Beat Out The Likes Of Paris And New York

Cancun is finishing the year on a high after being announced as the second most popular destination in the world for 2021.

The ranking stems from a statistical report compiled by Forward Keys, who track airline and tourism trends in real time.

The top 20 is an insightful look into what has been a turbulent year for the tourism industry. Although drastically more successful than 2020, when the sector virtually shut down for a year, the absence of some typically high ranking countries and the rise of others could be a glimpse of years to come. It remains to be seen if many of the destinations, including Cancun, can capitalize on the growth shown this year.

Cancun fell in behind Dubai, which successfully held its top spot from 2019. It’s important role as a business hub combined with a steadily growing leisure tourism industry has allowed it a stronger year than most since its reopening back in August 2020. Low infection numbers, and high vaccination rates make the Middle Eastern destination a good option for many travelers.

But Cancun didn’t even appear in the top twenty back in 2019, and its meteoric rise has planted it at the center of the tourist industry worldwide. Airlines across the US and now Europe are scrambling to send new direct flights to the city, and hotels, both high end and budget, are moving in in droves.

Mexico has the power of freedom tilting success in its favor. Relaxed COVID rules, and no entry barriers have made it a no-brainer for many American travelers seeking sun and sand. But action yearning Europeans are being swayed across the Atlantic too. With many of the European hotspots still closed, restricted, or offering a barrier to reentry, the transatlantic trip is looking more attractive despite the distance.

Those heading to Cancun over what is set to be one of the busiest in history should be prepared.