By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Despite stricter immigration policies and increased scrutiny, the number of Mexican visitors to the U.S. continues to rise. Mexican travelers are becoming a bright spot for the holiday season as many plan trips to visit relatives, enjoy entertainment, and shop. Although the visa application process has become more difficult and expensive, Mexican tourism remains strong, with Mexicans representing the largest group of foreign travelers. This trend highlights the robust economic and cultural connections between the two countries, especially along the border, despite potential deterrents like increased costs and social media checks.
Read the original article here
The number of international tourists going to the US is decreasing, with one exception: Mexico. It seems that while many other countries are seeing a drop in visitors to the United States, Mexico is experiencing a different trend. There are various perspectives on why this is happening, but it’s clear that the dynamics between the US and Mexico are unique and perhaps even evolving in unexpected ways, particularly from a tourist’s perspective.
The current geopolitical climate seems to be a major factor in the shifts in tourism. Several people note that Canadians, for example, are less inclined to visit the United States, with some citing strained relations and negative perceptions. Flights from Canada to the US might be half empty, and there’s a general sense of hesitancy among Canadians. This contrasts sharply with the situation regarding Mexican visitors.
The reasons for this contrasting trend are complex, but several explanations emerge. The strong familial ties between the two countries play a significant role. Many Mexicans have family members living in the US, making travel a regular occurrence for visiting. As one person put it, “mi casa es tu casa” – the spirit of hospitality and the presence of family already in the US makes it a less expensive and more welcoming experience.
Additionally, economic factors are at play. The weakening of the US dollar may be making the US a more affordable destination for Mexican tourists, and the strengthening of the Mexican middle class over the past few decades allows for more discretionary spending, including travel. The increasing middle-class income in Mexico could make a trip to the United States a realistic option for those who may not have considered it before.
There are also political considerations. The US has a long history of a complicated relationship with Mexico. Mexicans are used to it, and perhaps less surprised by any new policies or political changes. This may contrast with other countries, where people expect a higher degree of reciprocity and respect. The current administration’s stance on immigration, while perhaps deterring visitors from some countries, may not be perceived the same way in Mexico, given the longstanding relationship and the constant flow of people across the border.
Furthermore, there is a reality that exists on the ground that diverges from the news reports. Many Mexicans cross into the US daily for work, family, and education. This is “business as usual,” and while there are concerns about the actions of ICE, it doesn’t seem to be stopping the flow of people and the sense of normalcy in border communities.
The US and Mexico seem to be in a period of intense economic cooperation. There are massive investments in green energy and semiconductor supply chains that rely on Mexican labor and American capital, demonstrating a shift toward nearshoring and a merging of the two economies into a single industrial engine. This cooperation and the essential role of the Mexican-American workforce may further facilitate and encourage travel between the two countries. The US’s needs are growing.
It’s also important to note that while some visitors from other countries might be hesitant to come to the US, particularly if they are concerned about visa issues, Mexicans often have the option of visiting family and have a more flexible approach to travel plans. Mexican tourists often come to stay, with free lodging. The visa process is very involved if not living nearby.
The dynamic extends to the airline’s rules and regulations, the scrutiny that airlines face when they fly. The airlines are held responsible if the person is inadmissible and must pay for their deportation. This is why airlines often deny people from boarding if they don’t have the proper paperwork. This is something the international traveler has to consider.
The shift in tourism between the US and Mexico is therefore a product of various factors: family ties, economic considerations, political realities, historical context, and the economic interdependence of the two nations. This is also why we may not see a downturn in the number of Mexican tourists coming to the US. It’s a complex picture, and one that is still being written daily.