Exploring Mexico: American Tourist Numbers And Trends

Mexico is a popular travel destination for Americans, with approximately 33.5 million Americans visiting in 2022, making it the most visited country by Americans that year. This number increased to 36.71 million in 2023. In fact, as the COVID-19 pandemic came to a close, Mexico was the top destination for Americans looking to travel. Overall, international tourism is big business for Mexico, with 66 million international visitors in 2022, an increase of 19.3% from 2021.

Americans' top travel destinations

As the COVID-19 pandemic came to an end, Mexico was the top destination for Americans booking travel. In 2022, 33.5 million Americans went to Mexico, making it the most popular destination for Americans that year. This figure represented a 17% increase compared to 2021. Overall, 66 million international visitors arrived in Mexico in 2022, a 19.3% increase from the previous year.

The top overseas destination for Americans in 2022 was the United Kingdom, attracting 3.7 million American travelers, followed by France with 3.1 million visitors. Other popular overseas destinations for Americans in 2022 included the Dominican Republic, Italy, and Germany/Spain.

In total, 80.7 million Americans traveled outside the country in 2022, a 64% increase from 2021. This figure amounts to 81% of pre-pandemic travel levels in 2019. The top states of residence for U.S. travelers to overseas destinations were California, New York, Florida, Texas, and New Jersey.

Income plays a significant role in international travel, with two-thirds of upper-income Americans traveling to at least five countries, compared to only 9% of lower-income Americans. Additionally, older individuals are more likely to have traveled internationally than younger people.

As of the second quarter of 2023, the United Kingdom remains the top overseas destination for Americans, with 1.6 million visitors, a 25% increase compared to 2019. Italy, France, the Dominican Republic, and Spain are also among the top destinations for Americans in 2023, with visitor numbers increasing compared to 2019 levels.

Mexico's most popular cities

Mexico is a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world, and especially from the United States. In 2023, 36.71 million Americans travelled to Mexico, up from 33 million in 2022.

Mexico City

Mexico's capital and most important city is steeped in history and culture. The historic centre of Mexico City is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, with ancient archeological ruins, colonial-era churches, and the former palace of the Viceroy of New Spain, now the National Palace. The city has museums of many types, including the Museo de Arte Moderno, the Museo Dolores Olmedo, the Franz Mayer Museum, the Frida Kahlo Museum, and the Museo Rufino Tamayo. The Palacio de Bellas Artes, whose construction began under Porfirio Díaz, is also worth a visit.

Guadalajara

Guadalajara is the second-largest Mexican city by population and is home to some of Mexico's best-known traditions, such as tequila, mariachi music, and charros (Mexican cowboys). Its similarity to Western European countries, mixed with modern architecture and infrastructure, makes Guadalajara very attractive to tourists. The city is also known as a pioneer in the underground arts scene and the electronic music world. Notable sites include the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Degollado Theatre, and the Hospicio Cabañas, a World Heritage Site and one of the oldest hospital complexes in Spanish America.

San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is a popular destination for sightseeing, rest, and relaxation. It is located in Central Mexico, about 3.5 hours from Mexico City. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with iconic Mexico architecture that is well-preserved. The iconic, Baroque-style Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel is a must-see.

Tulum

Tulum has become one of the top places for vacations in Mexico over the last decade. This beachfront city appeals to those seeking Mayan ruins, beautiful beaches, swimmable cenotes, great nightlife, and Instagram-worthy photo ops. The Tulum Mayan Ruins overlook the Caribbean Sea, and there are several other ruins in the surrounding areas. Tulum is also known for its cenotes, which serve as a nice alternative to the Caribbean Sea.

Cancun

Arguably the most famous beach in Mexico, Cancun is a place for everyone, from families to backpackers to partygoers. Cancun is also a great home base to explore the Yucatan Peninsula and the Yucatan Mayan Ruins. There are also a few places to see Mayan ruins in Cancun, such as El Rey, in front of Playa Delfines, and El Meco, in Puerto Juarez.

International travel and views of global engagement

International travel has a significant impact on people's views and knowledge of foreign affairs. According to a Pew Research Center survey, Americans who have travelled outside their country tend to be more interested in and informed about international news and current affairs. This group also feels a stronger sense of connection to people from other nations and supports a more proactive US foreign policy.

In 2022, 33.5 million Americans chose Mexico as their holiday destination, making it the most visited country by US citizens that year. This figure represents a 17% increase from 2021, possibly influenced by the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. Mexico's popularity among Americans as a travel destination is further highlighted by the 2023 statistics, which show that 36.71 million US citizens travelled to Mexico that year, up from 33 million in 2022.

The top overseas destinations for Americans in 2022 included the United Kingdom, France, the Dominican Republic, Italy, and Germany/Spain. These countries attracted American travellers in the millions, with the UK leading the way with 3.7 million visitors.

International travel is closely linked to a country's economic status, as evidenced by the higher rates of international travel among Americans with higher incomes and educational attainment. However, it is worth noting that the desire to travel internationally is prevalent across all groups, with most nontravellers expressing a willingness to explore other countries if given the opportunity.

International travel and income

International travel is strongly correlated with a nation's gross domestic product per capita, and this is evident when looking at the number of Americans travelling to Mexico. Mexico was the top destination for Americans in 2022, with 33.5 million American travellers recorded, a number that rose to 36.71 million in 2023. This made up a large proportion of the 66 million international visitors to Mexico in 2022.

Income is a key factor in the ability to travel internationally. Two-thirds of upper-income Americans have travelled to at least five countries, compared with 9% of lower-income Americans. This is reflected in the average US outbound traveller, who has a combined annual household income of $148,000.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a huge impact on international travel, with 80.7 million Americans travelling outside the country in 2022, a 64% increase on 2021. This figure amounts to 81% of 2019 travel levels, when 99.7 million Americans travelled internationally.

The recovery of the travel industry continued into 2023, with the number of US outbound air travellers to overseas countries in the second quarter up 8.9% on the same period in 2019. The top destination for Americans in the first two quarters of 2023 was the United Kingdom, with 1.6 million visitors, a 25% increase on 2019.

The average number of nights that Americans stayed on vacation in 2022 was 17.9. Two-thirds of Americans who travelled internationally did so for vacation purposes, while 44% were visiting friends or relatives, and 9% travelled for business.

International travel and age

International travel is a great way to explore the world and gain new experiences. However, when it comes to minors, there are important considerations and restrictions in place to ensure their safety. Here are some guidelines and tips for international travel with minors or as a minor:

Age Restrictions and Requirements:

• Most airlines classify children between the ages of 5 and 14 who travel without a parent or guardian as "unaccompanied minors." For those aged 15 to 17, the unaccompanied minor service is typically optional, and they may travel as standard passengers with valid IDs.
• Children under the age of 17 travelling alone internationally may need a signed letter of consent from a parent or guardian.
• Some countries have specific requirements for minors travelling with or without guardians. For example, Mexico requires children under 18 travelling alone to have a travel authorisation letter signed by a parent or legal guardian.

Booking and Check-In:

• Booking unaccompanied minors usually requires a phone call to the airline, and specific paperwork must be completed at check-in.
• Required documents for check-in include proof of the child's age, the accompanying adult's government-issued photo ID, contact information, and details of the adult meeting the child at the destination.
• It is essential to arrive at the airport early, typically at least two hours before departure, for check-in and to familiarise the child with the process.

In-Flight and Connections:

• Airlines often have specific rules regarding connections for minors. Some may not allow minors to make connections, while others provide assistance for changing flights.
• During connections, unaccompanied minors are usually escorted by airline personnel and may have access to dedicated lounges.
• In-flight entertainment, snacks, and other amenities can help make the journey more enjoyable for minors.

Pick-Up and Safety:

• A valid ID and signature are typically required for the person picking up an unaccompanied minor at the destination. Airlines will not release the child to anyone other than the designated person.
• It is crucial to remind minors about safety measures, such as only seeking help from uniformed staff and not leaving the airport with strangers.
• Providing emergency contacts, instructions for delays, and a means to pay for necessities is essential for unaccompanied minors.

In 2023, approximately 36.71 million Americans travelled to Mexico, showcasing the popularity of international travel. When it comes to minors, understanding and adhering to age-related restrictions and guidelines are crucial to ensure their safety and a positive travel experience.

Frequently asked questions