January 30, 2012

We all tend to focus on action. Big games, important events, headline grabbers...you know, we don't want to be left out of knowing about the new news.

For example, there were a number of posts toward the end of the year and into the new year that attempted to present the plan for the Nuevo Vallata property for the foreseeable future. Aimfiar members are passionate about transparency, accuracy and truth.

What struck us this evening was we have not heard much about the other properties. Riviera Maya is growing its Grand Luxxe inventory. Two buildings are open and operating. The Grand Mayan and Mayan Palace buildings are open and operating, although we do not know how many. We hear about the Grand Bliss - a building near the Mayan Palace is read to go, but is not open. There is talk about a convention center between the beach and the Grand Luxxe buildings. Of course, there is much going on at Nuevo Vallarta.

But what about Acapulco? The beach is beautiful, the property parallels the beach and we know it is popular. But what do the sales staff say about the future of Acapulco? We know the Mayan Palace Regency has been open for a year now. Are there other plans in the mix?

We know the story at San Jose del Cabo...the property is there and roads are in place. The bridge was dedicated. But what do the sales people talk about in San Jose del Cabo?

One person shouted out - "Mazatlan - you ought to visit Mazatlan". But we do not hear much about what is happening there.

The other jewel is La Jolla de Cortes. Gary III shared his photos of Rocky Point and the changes that are taking place there. At the Mayan Palace, there is a beautiful golf course. Is it being used? How about that great indoor pool and the expansive beach.

The economy has taken its toll for sure. In fact we applaud Vidanta for pushing ahead as much as it has. Opening eight resorts in the last two years is pretty amazing, especially when you see other companies putting on the brakes.

Then there is the safety issue, the issue everyone loves to hate. In reality, we seem to remember more horrible stories about abductions and killings four and five years ago than now. Sure, there are the cartels killing each other, but it seems the impact on tourism is more psychological than physical. We need to knock on wood!

Yet, international travel through airports at Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco, San Jose del Cabo and Cancun is up over prior years. It seems people are coming to Mexico and spending time enjoying what Mexico has to offer.

Its just we do not hear much about the other resort properties. It would be great if we could learn what others are saying and promising. What are folks who are not interested in the Grand Luxxe thinking about?

All very interesting....and quiet.

We suppose this is a great way to start a new year.