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How do you fit an entire nation’s culture into three days? It’s not easy, but the Tianguis Turístico, Mexico’s largest tourism conference, makes an impressive effort every year. I just wrapped up attending the 2018 edition (covering it for TravelAge West) and was impressed with the job that Mazatlan, the Mexico beach destination, did as the host city.
Tianguis attracts hundreds of people — including hoteliers, travel agents, tour operators and other travel industry insiders from more than 80 countries. I’ve been covering this massive tourism event for years, and every time offers a fresh opportunity to learn the latest travel news and also enjoy some pretty fabulous experiences that celebrate Mexican culture and a variety of places to visit in Mexico.
The Pacific beach destination of Mazatlan has always been one of my favorite Mexico vacation destinations. It’s graced with wide beaches, natural beauty and a pristine historic city center with gorgeous architecture, lovely shops and restaurants and a landmark theater you won’t find in any other beach destination.
So it’s no surprise that Mazatlan pulled out all the stops to showcase the destination and it’s rich culture and traditions. On Sunday night, we were treated to a love, open-air dinner event on the waterfront Malecón in the neighborhood called Olas Altas. Mexico’s president, Enrique Peña Nieto, attended, and there was beautiful live music. Especially eye-catching, however, was the carnaval mini-parade, staged especially for Tianguis attendees (the real carnaval takes place just before Easter). Giant floats, festive music and dozens of colorfully garbed dancers wowed attendees, and after the parade, we were treated to a spectacular fireworks display over the water.
The following day, the business of Tianguis kicked off at the Mazatlan convention center, and it was also visually exciting. Many of the booths that represented different states and cities in the Mexican republic were staffed by people wearing traditional outfits, providing countless photo opportunities (I got to meet some Mazatlan carnival queens and shake hands with a rather believable likeness of Mexican revolutionary Emiliano Zapata).
On Tuesday night, we headed back to the historic city center for a gala evening on Plazuela Machada, Mazatlan’s most beautiful city square. Sponsored by five Mexican states, the evening was filled with live music, tasty regional cuisine and yet again a variety of costumed performers.
In short, Tianguis Turistico may be an unparalleled opportunity for tourism officials and suppliers to do business. But it’s also an exciting time to witness Mexico’s fascinating culture and traditions, from around the country.
Source: latinflyer.com
