New Sculpture, In Plain Sight, Unveiled At Cherry Street Pier For Pride Month In Philadelphia

Visit Philadelphia has unveiled In Plain Sight, a large-scale sculpture at Cherry Street Pier honoring Transgender, Queer, Intersex and Asexual members of the LGBTQ+ community. On display throughout Pride Month this June, the installation serves as a bold celebration of the TQ+ community — a group facing increased scrutiny as LGBTQ+ rights remain at the center of national debate. The sculpture underscores Philadelphia's longstanding commitment to being a welcoming and affirming destination for LGBTQ+ residents and travelers.

To bring In Plain Sight to life, Visit Philadelphia consulted with local artists and creatives, including Philadelphia-based Bill Adair, an independent arts and culture consultant and former director of the Pew Center for Arts & Heritage. The concept was developed in partnership with local agency A&G (Allen & Gerritsen) and the final piece was fabricated by Outshaped, a family-owned 3D design and manufacturing studio.

Standing at 10 feet tall and weighing 250 pounds, the sculpture's design incorporates colors from the different LGBTQ+ pride flags, each representing a segment of the community:

Transgender (T): Light blue, white and pink stripes from the Transgender Pride Flag.

Queer (Q): Elements from the traditional Rainbow Pride Flag, featuring red, orange, yellow, green, blue and violet.

Plus (+): Yellow and purple from the Intersex Pride Flag, symbolizing autonomy and visibility; black and white from the Asexual Pride Flag; and black and brown from the Progress Pride Flag, representing people of color and other marginalized groups within the LGBTQ+ community.

The sculpture also features carved grooves throughout, symbolizing the layered identities and lived experiences within the community. These design choices were intentionally selected to reflect the diversity and intersectionality of the TQ+ population.

"Visit Philadelphia is honored to present In Plain Sight as a meaningful tribute to the TQ+ community. This sculpture is a visible reminder of Philadelphia's commitment to being a welcoming place for all," said Angela Val, president and CEO of Visit Philadelphia. "When travelers come here, we want them to feel our city's love, pride and spirit. Representation matters and research supports that. LGBTQ+ travelers spend more, travel more often and are more likely to choose destinations where they feel seen and affirmed."

According to Community Marketing & Insights (CMI), 63% of LGBTQ+ travelers view Philadelphia as a welcoming destination. A separate Booking.com study found that 73% of LGBTQ+ travelers say increased inclusivity has made them feel more comfortable while traveling. The community also represents an estimated $1.4 trillion in annual purchasing power, with LGBTQ+ travelers spending 33% more than their non-LGBTQ counterparts and taking an average of four to six trips per year.

Cherry Street Pier, located on the Delaware River Waterfront, is hosting the installation throughout June. Visit Philadelphia is currently seeking a permanent home for In Plain Sight following Pride Month. Businesses or cultural institutions in Philadelphia or the surrounding counties whose values align with Visit Philadelphia's welcoming mission are encouraged to apply for the opportunity to host the sculpture next. The deadline to submit is Monday, June 23, 2025.

"We're proud to host In Plain Sight during Pride Month," said Joseph Forkin, president of the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation. "The waterfront is a place for everyone, and Cherry Street Pier — home to a vibrant and diverse creative community — is the perfect location to spotlight this important symbol. We're honored to be part of its journey and can't wait to see where it goes next."

Philadelphia's connection to LGBTQ+ history is long and significant. The city was the site of the "Annual Reminder" protests at Independence Hall in the 1960s, one of the first organized gay rights demonstrations in the United States. In 2004, Visit Philadelphia launched Get Your History Straight and Your Nightlife Gay, the country's first LGBTQ-specific tourism television commercial. Two decades later, the organization introduced In Pursuit of a More Perfect Union: Drag Queen Story Time on Independence Mall and in 2024 it sponsored Philadelphia Gay News' successful effort to secure a Guinness World Records title for the largest drag story time reading.

"2025 calls for marketers to be bold and brave," said Neil Frauenglass, chief marketing officer, Visit Philadelphia. "Our TQ+ sculpture sends a message to the community that they are seen and welcome in Philadelphia today, next year when we celebrate the country's 250th birthday and always."

Visit Philadelphia's welcoming message to LGBTQ+ travelers is also prominently featured in a current New York City advertising takeover, which launched May 5 and runs through June 8. The campaign also includes bonus placements during the Tony Awards and NYC Pride weeks — June 9–15 and June 23–29 — reaching an additional 4.7 million impressions.

To learn more about In Plain Sight, please visit http://visitphilly.com/inplainsight.

Travel + Leisure Names Thailand The 2025 Destination Of The Year

Travel + Leisure has named Thailand as the 2025 Destination of the Year. Known for its rich cultural heritage, dynamic culinary scene, and a seamless blend of tradition with modern innovation, Thailand is a must-visit destination for travelers in the year ahead. This is the tenth year Travel + Leisure editors have selected a Destination of the Year, with previous honorees including Costa Rica, Italy, and Japan.

"We are thrilled to recognize Thailand as our Destination of the Year for 2025," said Jacqui Gifford, Editor-in-Chief of Travel + Leisure. "Whether visitors are exploring Bangkok's cutting-edge culinary scene, relaxing on one of the country's 1,430 islands, or experiencing its renowned hospitality with some of the best luxury hotels in the world, Thailand offers a unique adventure for every type of traveler."

Thailand's diverse regions offer travelers a mix of artistic inspiration, natural beauty, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. The capital, Bangkok, shines as a cultural powerhouse, renowned for its dynamic food scene and vibrant LGBTQ+ community. Beyond the bustling city, Thailand's islands–including the world famous Koh Samui, home to the forthcoming season of HBO's The White Lotus–offer tranquil escapes and luxury resorts. Phang Nga Bay is known for breathtaking views of limestone karst formations, while the cultural hub of Isan in the northeast showcases artistic contributions that have influenced the broader creative scene in Thailand. Additionally, the country remains committed to wildlife conservation, particularly in its efforts to protect endangered Asian elephants, which visitors can witness firsthand at various sanctuaries.

A comprehensive guide to everything Thailand has to offer—from the family-friendly hotel offerings to the vast island network and more—is available now at TravelandLeisure.com, and will be featured in the cover story of the December/January 2025 issue, available on newsstands on November 22.

Citi® / AAdvantage® is the presenting sponsor of Travel + Leisure's 2025 Destination of the Year program. As part of the sponsorship, Travel + Leisure will host a special event for cardmembers celebrating the winning destination.

Puerto Vallarta Named One Of The Best Cities In The World In Condé Nast Traveler's 2024 Readers' Choice Awards

Puerto Vallarta, where the wild beauty of the Pacific coast meets the vibrant spirit of Mexico, has once again been named one of the Best Cities in the World in Condé Nast Traveler's annual Readers' Choice Awards. Celebrated for its breathtaking natural landscape, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sierra Madre mountains, along with its rich heritage and warm hospitality, Puerto Vallarta earned the #9 spot in the Small Cities category, as voted by over 575,000 Condé Nast Traveler readers. This accolade crowns a year of record-breaking international arrivals and all-time high hotel occupancy rates this summer, making Puerto Vallarta a must-visit destination for the upcoming holiday season.

Photo by Allen Barkus

The Readers' Choice Awards, revered as the longest-running and most prestigious accolades in the travel industry, showcase destinations travelers eagerly anticipate revisiting. The full list of winners can be found here.

"We're incredibly honored to be recognized by Condé Nast Traveler readers once again," said Luis Villaseñor, Managing Director of Puerto Vallarta's Tourism Board. "Puerto Vallarta invites travelers to embrace the unexpected, whether through breathtaking adventures in our jungles, tranquil moments on our beaches, or the deep cultural connections they experience throughout the city. We're grateful to everyone who voted—it's a testament to why so many visitors fall in love with our destination and keep returning."

Puerto Vallarta welcomed 2.97 million international visitors from January to September 2024, marking a 3.7% increase compared to the same period last year. This summer also saw record-high hotel occupancy rates, further emphasizing the city's growing appeal as travelers seek out its unique landscapes, authentic experiences, and world-class hospitality.

The city continues to expand its array of accommodations, catering to every type of traveler. This fall, Tryst Puerto Vallarta, a luxurious new hotel, will open in late October in the heart of the lively Romantic Zone, adding to the city's inclusive and inviting atmosphere as a renowned destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. Visitors can also choose from a variety of resort options, from all-inclusive stays at Hilton Vallarta Riviera All-Inclusive Resort, Velas Vallarta, Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort and Spa, and Hyatt Ziva, to charming boutique hotels such as Casa Kimberly, BellView Boutique Hotel, and Hacienda San Angel. For those looking to reconnect with nature and themselves, Xinalani and the adults-only Villa Lala offer eco-friendly retreats off the beaten path.

Puerto Vallarta's Pacific & Wild spirit shines this fall and winter, inviting visitors to explore the region's diverse landscapes and wildlife. Whale-watching season runs from December through March, while the tail end of sea turtle nesting offers unforgettable wildlife encounters. Adventure seekers can enjoy thrilling activities with Canopy Rivers and Vallarta Adventures, from zip-lining through the jungle to river tours. Athletes can test their endurance at the Puerto Vallarta Mexico by UTMB on November 7-9, an ultra-trail running event with races ranging from 10K to 147K that traverse the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains, the jungle, and down to the Pacific coastline. While outdoor adventures are plentiful, Puerto Vallarta's cultural traditions also remain a highlight, with Día de los Muertos November 1-2 providing a meaningful way to honor and remember departed loved ones, followed by the Festival Gourmet International November 7-17 for food and wine lovers, and concluding with the Our Lady of Guadalupe Festival December 1-12, which brings lively processions and folkloric dancers to the streets.

The 2024 Readers' Choice Awards are published on Condé Nast Traveler's website at cntraveler.com/rca and celebrated in the November issue.

For more information on Puerto Vallarta, visit https://visitpuertovallarta.com.

Mexico City: One Of The Best Destinations For Celebrating Pride

As Pride Month kicks off worldwide, Mexico City stands out as a vibrant, inclusive, and welcoming destination for celebrating LGBTIQ+ pride. Known for its rich cultural heritage, dynamic arts scene, and warm hospitality, Mexico City offers an unparalleled experience for all visitors, making it a perfect place to honor love, diversity, and equality.

A Hub of Inclusivity

Mexico City is celebrated for its progressive stance on LGBTIQ+ rights and its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment year-round. The city's diverse neighborhoods, from the bustling historic center to the trendy Roma and Condesa districts, are known for their acceptance and support of the LGBTIQ+ community. This inclusivity is evident in the numerous LGBTIQ+-owned businesses, inclusive nightlife, and a wide range of events and activities that celebrate diversity.

In fact, since 2019 Secretaria de Turismo CDMX, the Mexico City Secretary of Tourism, has carried out important actions and campaigns to develop, promote, and position the LGBTIQ+ segment, positioning the city as a world center for encouraging inclusivity and discrimination-free tourism.

The city obtained the Queer Destinations certification, which aims to ensure respect for people's rights in terms of accessibility, equality, inclusion, and diversity. Mexico City has also earned the Best Urban Destination Award for the second consecutive year, highlighting its commitment to LGBTIQ+ tourism.

Pride Parade 2024: A Spectacular Celebration

One of the highlights of Pride Month in Mexico City is the annual Pride Parade, which draws millions of participants and spectators from around the world. The parade is a vibrant display of unity, with colorful floats, dynamic performances, and an atmosphere of joy and solidarity. Starting at the iconic Angel of Independence and culminating at the Zócalo, the city's main square, the parade is a testament to Mexico City's dedication to LGBTIQ+ rights and its vibrant culture.

We demand to live with dignity!” is the motto of the Colectiva de Organizaciones Civiles (Civil Organizations Collective) who announced that the event will take place in Mexico City on Saturday, June 29. Let us remember that for 46 years, it has been celebrated on the last Saturday of June.

But the parade is just the beginning when it comes to the tapestry of events that take place across the city.

Starting from June 20, the city will kick off the Festival Mix Mexico. Nearly LGBTIQ+-themed films are part of the showcase that will be exhibited in the city. The opening takes place at the Teatro de la Ciudad Esperanza Iris, featuring a screening of the film, "Todo el silence," (All the Silence).

High Heel Race: This fabulous event, held June 22, invites everyone to don their best stilettos to participate in the High Heel Race, taking place from the intersection of Sonora and Durango streets in Roma to Parque Espana. A participation fee of 200 pesos is required and the proceeds will go to Inspira Cambio A.C., an organization that supports LGBTIQ+ individuals' sexual and mental health needs.

LGBT Cup 2024 in Mexico City: This year's Copa LGBT will take place from June 27 to 30 at Ciudad Deportiva de la Magdalena Mixhiuca. The competition includes tennis, soccer, basketball, diving, swimming, Olympic wrestling, and many other sports. It is expected to draw more than 2,000 athletes from different states across Mexico. There will also be a five-kilometer nighttime race on Paseo de la Reforma, which kicks off on June 28 at 6 p.m.

Latin American Pride 2024: Latin American Pride 2023 will remain in the city’s memory forever, which is why CDMX invites everyone to attend Latin American Pride 2024 on June 27. The promise is a bigger and more spectacular pride celebration than last year.

Groove City Pride: Groove City presents a night filled with music, color, and community to celebrate diversity and love in all its forms. Expect DJs from the Mexican scene playing the best of house, afro house, and tech, along with drag shows, exclusive Groove City merchandise, and local artists. It’s an inclusive and safe environment where attendees can be themselves and celebrate with pride. Get ready to dance all night on the terrace with the best view of Reforma at this dynamic PRIDE party on June 29th.The event will run from 7:00 p.m. on June 29th to 12:30 a.m. on June 30.

Sáfica Party and Lesbian Sunset: Also on June 29, in collaboration with Fiesta Sáfica and Lesbian Sunset, CDMX is offering a unique experience at one of the city’s most exclusive Polanco venues. With two stages and a variety of performances, Bian’s party promises to be the best night for women and non-binary individuals.

ELLA CONECTA SUMMIT: ELLA CONECTA is an international network of diverse professional women. Its goal is to connect, inspire each other, create business synergies, and empower LGBTQ+ women. They provide spaces to showcase women’s projects, collaborate on joint initiatives, and offer inspiration by sharing life experiences. This year's summit will be held June 27 and 28.

A Year-Round Inclusive Destination

While Pride Month is a special time, Mexico City's commitment to inclusivity extends throughout the year. The city hosts a variety of LGBTQ+ events, including film festivals, art exhibitions, and cultural festivals, ensuring that there is always something exciting happening. Additionally, the city's progressive policies and strong support networks make it a safe and welcoming place for LGBTIQ+ travelers at any time.

Join Us in Celebrating Pride

Mexico City invites everyone to join in celebrating Pride and experience the warmth, diversity, and vibrancy that makes it a standout destination. Whether you are marching in the parade, exploring cultural landmarks, or enjoying the lively nightlife, Mexico City offers an unforgettable Pride celebration that reflects its spirit of inclusivity and love.

For additional information, please visit https://mexicocity.cdmx.gob.mx/

Puerto Vallarta Welcomes All For Pride Celebrations May 20-26

Vallarta Pride 2024, one of Latin America's largest Pride celebrations, will take place May 20-26, welcoming travelers from around the globe to join in a celebration of love, acceptance, and joy against the backdrop of sun, sand, and sea. Vallarta Pride was created to showcase all the unique elements that have made Puerto Vallarta a favorite resort destination of the international gay community. It's no surprise Puerto Vallarta was named the "Beach Destination of the Year'' at the LGBTQ+ Travel Awards Mexico in 2023.

Nestled along the stunning Banderas Bay on the Mexican Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta has long been celebrated as one of the best cities in the world, as recognized by Condé Nast Traveler's prestigious Reader's Choice Awards. Puerto Vallarta's seamless blend of LGBTQ+ inclusive culture with traditional Mexican heritage creates an inviting atmosphere characterized by cobblestone streets, an esplanade with open-air sculptures, and a lively nightlife scene. With pristine beaches and a reputation for embracing diversity, Puerto Vallarta stands as a beacon of inclusivity and acceptance for all. The 11th annual edition of Vallarta Pride, under the theme "Sun & the Beach," kicks off with opening parties across all of the destination's main gay bars and clubs. Set along the iconic Los Muertos gay beach in charming Zona Romántica, Mantamar Beach Club will be the center of the action, hosting a medley of live performances over six dynamic days.

Event highlights include:

PV Pride Pet Parade (May 20): Calling all dog lovers for the 2nd annual Vallarta Pride Pet Parade benefiting Puppy Paradise dog shelter. At 7 p.m. the dog walk along the Malecon will commence offering breathtaking views of the ocean and city skyline during sunset. For those without a furry friend, Puppy Paradise will provide dogs from the shelter for participants to walk, but reservations must be made in advance.

Pink Dinner (May 22): Serving as the official opening event for Vallarta Pride, this elegant affair promises an evening of solidarity, complete with a four-course dinner, live DJ, fireworks, and the prestigious "Pride Vanguard Award'' presented by the Vallarta Pride Committee. Proceeds benefit the local LGBTQ+ community.

Sun Festival (May 22-24): A non-stop celebration of fashion, food, and LGBTQ+ culture, the event features a lineup of national and international performers on the main stage, alongside exhibitor stalls and culinary delights.

Carrera Rainbow Run (May 25): Puerto Vallarta's most colorful race of the year, this recreational race spans scenic 3K and 6K routes along the famed Malecon.

Pride Parade (May 25): Moving from its usual Thursday night slot to Saturday, the colors of the rainbow take over the streets of Puerto Vallarta in a Pride celebration unlike any other in the world, traveling down the city's main avenue and the Malecon, ending in Olas Altas Street at the Romantic Zone. Here, the fun continues with the ever-popular block party on Lazaro Cárdenas Street.

Beach Party (May 25): New this year, an electrifying beach party will follow the parade, featuring a grand stage set on the city's sandy shores with a lineup of live performances to keep the energy soaring.

Art Exhibition (May 26): Vallarta Pride wraps with a fundraising cocktail party that promises an evening of art and celebration.

While Vallarta Pride takes center stage, visitors are invited to explore the year-round allure of the city's cosmopolitan Zona Romántica, home to LGBTQ+ owned or managed establishments, as well as the renowned Los Muertos Beach, Mexico's most famous gay beach

About Puerto Vallarta

Nestled between the rugged Sierra Madre Mountains and Banderas Bay on Mexico's balmy Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is the quintessential Mexican beach destination. Puerto Vallarta's year-round warm climate, easy direct access from major markets in the United States and Canada, and a range of accommodation options have made it a top choice for a stress-free tropical escape. Authentic culture can be discovered around every corner in Puerto Vallarta, from the charming cobblestone streets downtown to the art-filled Malecon, and the lively Romantic Zone – a favorite enclave amongst LGBTQ+ travelers. Puerto Vallarta's picturesque beaches and aquatic activities lure travelers, and its welcoming hospitality, top-notch gastronomy, and outdoor adventures keep them coming back time and time again.

For more details, please visit: https://visitpuertovallarta.com/events/vallarta-pride-2024

Miami Beach Welcomes All Visitors to Celebrate Pride With New Experiences

As one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly destinations in the world, Miami Beach is set to welcome all travelers to celebrate Miami Beach Pride. This year, visitors will be treated to a variety of activities and experiences, all in honor of Miami Beach Pride's 16th year on Miami Beach, a testament to the support of the LGBTQ+ community from the city and surrounding areas. From rooftop cinema screenings to the signature Sunday Parade with Grand Marshal and Headliner Billy Porter, Grand Marshal Lisa Rinna and Anchor Max Fenning, Miami Beach is prepared to share the love and celebrate the remarkable journey of Miami Beach and its reputation as a destination that embraces the LGBTQ+ community and equality.

"Miami Beach Pride has a storied history on Miami Beach and we are ready to welcome the community with open arms to mark the 16th anniversary of this positive, inclusive and celebratory weekend," says Peggy Benua, Chairwoman of the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority (MBVCA). "Our support of the LBGT+ community is a year-round effort with dedicated programming, offers and experiences hand-crafted to cater to traveler needs.

To mark the occasion, a variety of activities and special events are planned in the month leading up to the Miami Beach Pride Parade on Sunday, April 14, including a Social Justice, Health and Wellness Evening at O Cinema South Beach on April 10, the VIP Beach Affair on April 12 at Lummus Park and two days of Festival Celebrations for the community to connect and enjoy star-studded performances. A full list of Miami Beach Pride programming can be found at www.miamibeachpride.com

The Outing: The World’s Only LGBTQ+ Matchmaking Festival Returns To Ireland For Its 11th Year

The Inn at Dromoland has been confirmed as the host venue for the next five years of the world’s only LGTBQ+ matchmaking festival.

Now in its 11th year, The Outing is expected to attract more than 1,000 gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and straight singles and couples from across Ireland and overseas to the County Clare venue this coming Valentine’s weekend from February 9th to 11th.

Organised in conjunction with The Outing Queer Arts Collective with support from Fáilte Ireland, Blacknight Solutions, Visit Clare, Limerick Pride, and Quare Clare, the award-winning festival is a fusion of music, comedy, ceilí bands, queer arts, and the best of Irish and international performers, drag artists and DJs. This year’s event is being hosted by “The Queen of Matchmaking”, Eddie McGuinness, and Victoria’s Secret.

Eddie McGuinness, who is the Festival Director of The Outing, commented, “We are delighted to have secured a lasting home for our festival and are excited about delivering an LGBTQ+ weekend like no other.”

“People have travelled from all over the world to our festival in previous years to enjoy pop-up clubs, drag performances, comedy, live music, arts, literary and film festivals and interactive events,” he added. “Of course, matchmaking plays a huge part in the festival. With more than a hundred relationships and two marriages, I have helped play a part in putting together our event in recent years. The Outing also acts as a celebration of the LGTBQ+ community, so whether you’re single or taken gay, trans, straight or bi, all are welcome to this fun weekend.”

Festival co-host Victoria’s Secret commented, “I am excited to escape to the West after what already feels like the longest January in record. Whether you’re coming to find love, mix and mingle with some new faces or just have a bop amongst like-minded people, there is something for everyone at The Outing. So, pop on something sparkly, shake off the January blues and come party with me. Well, it's Valentine's, after all.”

Drag queen and gay rights activist Panti Bliss, a longstanding supporter of the festival, said, “The Outing takes something quintessentially Irish and dips it in glitter. It opens up the idea of traditional Irishness to the LGBT community and says, actually, yes, you can be LGBT and still be as Irish.”

EuroPride Bid

The Outing organisers have also confirmed they are working with the Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau, Shannon Chambers, Quare Clare and Limerick Pride to submit a bid to bring EuroPride to Limerick, Clare and the Mid-West Region in 2028, which would mark the first time that the pan-European international event has been held in Ireland. Attracting over 100,000 people from all over the world annually, EuroPride is hosted by a different European city each year.

According to Mr McGuinness, “Working with our partners in the Mid-West Region, we are hoping to bring LGBTQ+ tourists and activists from across the world to Limerick and Clare in 2028, which would also coincide with the 35th anniversary of the decriminalisation of homosexuality in Ireland. Limerick is well accustomed to hosting large-scale international events, and we are confident we can follow in the footsteps of Amsterdam, London, Lisbon, Copenhagen and Madrid in showcasing our vibrant LGTBQ+ community here in Ireland, as this would be the 1st time EuroPride would come to the island of Ireland.”

Karen Ronan, General Manager of the Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau, “The Bureau is proud to support The Outing and their partner organisations in their bid to secure this prestigious event for the Mid-West which, should it be successful, would mark a landmark moment for the Pride movement in Ireland. Bringing the event to Limerick and Clare also would deliver a significant economic boost to the wider region and would follow on from the hosting of the World Rally Championship and the Ryder Cup.”

The Outing 2024 takes place at The Inn at Dromoland, Newmarket-On-Fergus, County Clare on February 9th to 11th, 2023. Visit www.theouting.ie for ticket and event details.

Jalisco Anticipates New Airport, Updates And Flight Routes In 2024

Ending its bicentennial year on a high note,Jalisco, Mexico, experienced a significant 10.7% rise in airport arrivals, welcoming a total of 10 million passengers through October. The surge highlights the Pacific coast state's burgeoning appeal, driven by its stunning landscapes that encompass all five of the country's natural ecosystems, and a reputation for hosting world-class events. The upswing in tourism is, in part, a result of collaborative initiatives between Jalisco's Ministry of Tourism—recently honored with theTravel Weekly Magellan Awards' Gold Award in Destination Marketing for positioning the state as a Leading LGBTQ+ Tourism Destination—and a variety of airlines.

Picture of Puerto Vallarta by Allen Barkus

This increase in visitors to the state is spurring greater connectivity and accessibility. The anticipated introduction of an international airport in Costalegre, coupled with the environmentally conscious expansion of Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) achieving net-zero carbon emissions in a new terminal – a first in Latin America, and the addition of new flight routes from Canada and the United States to Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) make exploring all that Jalisco has to offer easier than ever in 2024.

Mexico's 'Happy Coast' Increases Accessibility As Visionary Xala Opens

The alluring coastline of the Costalegre region, famously dubbed Mexico's "Happy Coast," has become a hotspot for the jet-set drawn to its 238--mile stretch of unspoiled beaches, enchanting capes and bays, and luxury resorts. Situated south of Puerto Vallarta, where the jungle meets the beach, the region is currently accessible through commercial flights to PVR typically requiring several hours of driving post flight to reach key resorts and hotels. Anticipated to open in late 2024, the upcoming Chalacatepec International Airport will offer direct access to this sought-after destination. The aim is to keep operations modest, ensuring swift customs clearance for arriving passengers, allowing them to unwind on the serene beaches in no time. The airport will play a pivotal role in meeting the growing demand for the area, complemented by the launch of the highly awaitedXala. This visionary $1 billion development, spanning 3,000 acres, is set to become one of Mexico's premier destinations. The ambitious project encompasses luxury hotels, estate-style vacation homes, and a lavish 51-villaSix Senses hotel, scheduled to open its doors in 2026.

Puerto Vallarta International Airport to Introduce Latin America's First NetZero Terminal

In a groundbreaking move to preserve the natural allure that draws a record number of visitors,Puerto Vallarta International Airport is set to unveil its new terminal in December 2024, marking a significant milestone as the first Net Zero-certified terminal in Latin America. Recognized for its commitment to environmental sustainability, the two-story structure, boasting Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) project certification, significantly reduces the building footprint by 50% while also preserving 50% of the area's existing ancient trees with cathedral roots. Beyond its green credentials, Terminal 2 features a third "floor" at its core, dedicated to generating cold water, transforming energy, and efficiently managing luggage logistics. The terminal is fully accessible, ensuring a welcoming environment for all travelers, including those with disabilities. The enhanced passenger experience includes a spacious restaurant, VIP area, fast-food outlets, and a dining area. The terminal also introduces a substantial improvement in security filters, increasing capacity by 125%, and doubling the checked baggage inspection points. A feature not found at any other Mexican airport, outdoor terraces will provide passengers with an opportunity to wait for their flights al fresco.

Flair, Aeromexico Introduce New Routes from the United States and Canada

Flair and Aeromexico are set to enhance travel options to and from Guadalajara with the introduction of new routes from the United States and Canada. Beginning May 31, 2024, Canadian low-cost carrierFlair will revive a route last operated in 2004, providing direct service between Vancouver (YVR) and GDL. This service will run twice a week, offering competitive fares starting at USD$129. Following JetBlue's successful launch of a new Los Angeles (LAX) to Puerto Vallarta route earlier this summer,Aeromexico, in a joint venture withDelta Air Lines, is expanding its presence in the United States. This significant development includes the introduction of two new routes connecting Jalisco's capital city with the Delta hubs of Atlanta (ATL) and Detroit (DTW). This expansion not only strengthens air connectivity between Jalisco and key U.S. destinations but also marks a substantial step towards providing passengers with increased travel options and convenience.

For more information on Jalisco, visithttps://visitjalisco.com.mx.