Mexican Caribbean Tourism Board Shares Exciting Lineup Of Late Summer, Fall Seasonal Events And Signature Experiences

With an exciting lineup of cultural events and record-breaking successes, the Mexican Caribbean is experiencing a landmark start to the year. The region, located on Mexico’s eastern coast, confidently advances into its “New Era of Tourism,” hallmarked by world-renowned cultural, culinary, wellness and nightlife offerings that reflect its vibrant identity.

The inaugural Mexican Caribbean Music Fest, held in Tulum in May, received over 20,000 attendees and hotel occupancy increased by 20 percent.

The year has been defined by a robust calendar of events that underscore the dynamic spirit and rising profile of the Mexican Caribbean, significantly boosting tourism through increased hotel occupancy and driving deeper visitor engagement with memorable cultural experiences. February marked the triumphant return of Carnaval, celebrated across major destinations including Cozumel, Cancún, Puerto Morelos, Isla Mujeres, Bacalar and Holbox. This renowned event drew thousands of international visitors who filled the streets for lively parades featuring dazzling costumes, vibrant music and dancing, and elaborate cultural performances.

In May, the inaugural Mexican Caribbean Music Fest (MCMF) brought more than 20,000 attendees to ZAMNA Park in Tulum. Headlined by international music icon Sting, the festival combined star power with a setting that captured the natural beauty and distinctive atmosphere of the region, establishing a new standard for large-scale cultural programming. Designed as a next-generation evolution of the beloved Riviera Maya Jazz Festival, the event elevated the Mexican Caribbean’s profile, increasing hotel occupancy by 20 percent - a remarkable achievement during what is typically considered low season. Met with critical acclaim, the Mexican Caribbean Music Fest has already gained momentum to become an annual tradition.

“The Mexican Caribbean continues to evolve as a leading global destination for premier events, blending New Era innovation with deep cultural roots. This year’s calendar, from iconic traditions like Carnaval to new initiatives such as the Mexican Caribbean Music Fest – demonstrates our commitment to delivering high-impact experiences that draw travelers to our region time and time again. Our strategic focus remains on curating authentic offerings that honor our rich cultural heritage and foster long-term traveler engagement,” said Andrés Martínez, CEO, Mexican Caribbean Tourism Board.

Other standout events this year have included culinary showcases, athletic competitions and artistic exhibitions hosted across the region’s 12 destinations. With even more on the horizon, the Mexican Caribbean continues to captivate travelers through experiences that highlight its creativity, character and unmistakable rhythm.

Upcoming Major Events:

Apapaxoa GastroCultural Festival (August 26–31, Riviera Maya) A true feast for the soul and the palate, Apapaxoa (meaning “to embrace with the soul” in Náhuatl) brings together some of Mexico’s top chefs, mixologists and culinary artisans to craft multisensory experiences that blend ancestral flavors with contemporary techniques. The festival features pairing dinners, culinary talks, hands-on workshops and artistic performances, offering a dynamic celebration of flavor, creativity and the joy of living well.

Ironman 70.3 Cozumel (September 21, Cozumel Island) Set against Cozumel’s breathtaking coastal scenery, Ironman 70.3 Cozumel is part of a prestigious international qualifying series leading to the World Championship. Athletes compete in a grueling test of endurance featuring a 2.4 -mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride and a 13.1-mile run. The event attracts elite competitors and passionate fans from around the world, bringing global visibility and high-energy excitement to the island.

Dia de Muertos Celebrations (October 30–November 2, throughout the region) Celebrated across the Mexican Caribbean, Day of the Dead brings together colorful altars, candlelight processions, live performances and local art. Each destination offers its own interpretation of this iconic holiday, inviting visitors to experience a moving tribute to ancestry and remembrance in one of the country’s most meaningful cultural events. The Janal Pixán festival in Riviera Maya, whose name means “Food of the Souls,” is one of the highlights of this celebration, given its fusion of Mayan culture and Day of the Dead traditions.

Eagle Ray Season in Cozumel (December - March) During the winter, Cozumel offers a unique underwater experience as eagle rays migrate and mate in the region’s clear waters. Divers can spot these majestic creatures gliding over the algae-covered seabed of Cantarel Reef, which resembles an underwater meadow, making it one of the season’s most memorable natural encounters.

For more information, please visit https://mexicancaribbean.travel/

Travelore Cruise News: Royal Caribbean Starts Its Visits To Havana

Cuba Welcomes to Adventure Seekers Onboard Empress of the Seas
 



 
It was a historic day for Royal Caribbean International on April 24th when the cruise line made its inaugural visit to Cuba with the newly revitalized Empress of the Seas as part of a 5-night sailing from Miami. Adventure-seeking vacationers were among the cruise line’s first guests to explore the island country known for its legendary nightlife, iconic music and distinct culture. Guests participated in curated excursions throughout Havana, including rides in 1950s classic American cars to the city’s most famous locales, including the old quarter and the Havana Club Museum.

“We’re thrilled to be a part of Cuba’s future, ushering in Royal Caribbean’s next big adventure with Empress of the Seas’ first visit to Havana. Vacationers will now be able to experience a destination like no other, with authentic and immersive experiences that bring to life the vibrancy of Havana and its traditions,” said Michael Bayley, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International.

The vibrant Cuban culture extends beyond land to the experience onboard Empress of the Seas. From cortaditos and café con leche in Café Royal to salsa music and dancing in Boleros Latin lounge, guests will enjoy a range of onboard activities developed to bring the spirit of the island to life throughout the entire journey.

After returning to Miami, Florida, Empress of the Seas will reposition to Tampa, Fla. for the summer season – the cruise line’s first ever summer program from the destination – offering a series of four, five and six-night sailings, including day and overnight visits to Havana, along with stops in Key West, Fla. and Belize City, Belize, as well as Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico. Sailings from Tampa are available through Nov. 4, 2017 when Empress returns to Miami for the winter season, adding calls to CocoCay and Nassau in The Bahamas.               

Empress of the Seas spans 11 guest decks, encompasses 48,563 gross registered tons, carries 1,602 guests at double occupancy and features 795 staterooms.

Top Reasons To Travel To Mexico In 2016

 Ring the New Year by exploring new destinations in Mexico and rediscovering the ones you’ve already been to by taking off the beaten path adventures. Whether travelers decide to embark on a winter getaway to a colonial city or a pristine beach, they will find all year-round perfect weather, friendly locals, world-class services and amenities, and an unbeatable shopping experience. From local crafts and jewelry to luxury clothing and international brands, visitors traveling to Mexico will encounter a great variety of shopping offerings. But did you know with MONEYBACK you can receive a refund on the total amount you spend when you shop in Mexico? No more excuses for not bringing back home the perfect souvenir.

Top reasons to travel to Mexico in 2016

1. Receive a refund when you shop- MONEYBACK, Mexico’s leading tax-refund company, offers shoppers a rewarding shopping experience by refunding 8.9% of the total amount they spend when shopping in Mexico at any of the participating stores. Receiving your money back is fast and convenient. Submit your invoices along with the shopping incentive refund form, credit card vouchers, copy of your passport, cruise ID or immigration form and boarding pass at any of MONEYBACK’s 55 service locations and your 8.9% will be refunded directly to your card in 45 days.

2. Explore hot destinations- It’s no surprise some of the most sought-after and popular destinations in Mexico are its beaches. Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, Los Cabos and Riviera Maya offer the ideal getaway to start the year. Whether you select a beach destination or a city for your next trip, with over 55 service locations throughout the country, covering 98% of all the points of departure, travelers can submit their forms in a matter of minutes at cruise ports, shopping malls and airports before leaving the country. MONEYBACK modules are located at major tourist destinations including Cancun, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Cozumel, Puerto Escondido, Mazatlán, Guadalajara, Puebla, Queretaro, Guanajuato and Mexico City.

3.  Get more value for your money- With the strong dollar and wide selection of luxury products and items to choose from, international travelers get more value for their money. Items including jewelry, clothes, electronics, alcohol and handcrafts among others are eligible for a tax-refund. With over 6,000 participating stores, including Diamonds International, Louis Vuitton, Costco, Sears, Coach, Nine West, MAC, Kenneth Cole and many more travelers can find international brands and luxury items for a better value and at the same time receive a refund on their purchase. For the complete list of participating stores visit: http://moneyback.mx/shophere-taxback.html)

To learn more about MONEYBACK, participating stores and locations please visit:http://moneyback.mx/

Celebrity Cruises Enhances Caribbean Itineraries to Offer Guests More Overnights And Up To $600 In Savings When Booked By May 31st

Celebrity Cruises is offering guests an unmatched experience by introducing additional overnight stays on more than 40 Caribbean sailings for January 2016 and beyond, more than any other cruise line. The popularity of Celebrity's current overnight program has led to 43 newly enhanced itineraries, giving guests the chance to enjoy exciting evenings in destinations such as Cartagena, Colombia; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Cozumel, Mexico; Aruba; Curacao and Barbados. 

"Guests and travel agents love our overnight program in Europe, Asia and around the world, and their feedback has been amazing. This demand led us to revisit our current Caribbean itineraries and add even more overnights in one of the most beautiful places we sail to each year,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO, Celebrity Cruises. "With more overnights in the Caribbean than any other cruise line, we are offering our guests an incredible, unrivaled experience. They can enjoy the destination like a local before returning to our stylish, modern luxury ships."

In addition, when qualifying guests book by May 31, they can save with Celebrity's “Pick Your Perk” offer. There are four options for vacationers to choose from: $600 in savings when booking air travel using Celebrity’s ChoiceAir, free Classic beverage packages, free gratuities, or up to $300 to spend on board. For more details and to take advantage of this incredible offer, guests can visit celebritycruises.com/pick-your-perk-offer, call 1-800-CELEBRITY or contact their travel agent. 

Find more information about Celebrity’s newly enhanced Caribbean season at celebritycruises.com/caribbeanovernights. 

About Celebrity Cruises: 
Celebrity Cruises’ iconic “X” is the mark of modern luxury, with its cool, contemporary design and warm spaces; dining experiences where the design of the venues is as important as the cuisine; and the amazing service that only Celebrity can provide, all created to provide an unmatchable experience for vacationers’ precious time. Celebrity Cruises' 10 ships offer modern luxury vacations visiting all seven continents. Celebrity also presents immersive cruise tour experiences in Alaska and Canada. Celebrity is one of six cruise brands operated by global cruise vacation company Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE, OSE: RCL). For more information, dial 1-800-437-3111, visit www.celebritycruises.com, or call your travel agent.

MONEYBACK Offers Refund To 98% Of Cruise Passengers Shopping In Mexico

Mexico’s Leading Tax Return Company Refunds 8.9% to International Travelers at Major Cruise Ports With more than 10 offices in all major cruise ports- including Cozumel, Ensenada, Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlán, among many others- 98.1% of cruise passengers traveling to Mexico are eligible to receive an 8.9% refund on personal shopping expenses through MONEYBACK, Mexico’s leading tax return company. The end of 2014 marked a record year for Mexican ports with a 24 percent increase in cruise visits over the previous year, and with more than 4 million cruise passengers expected to visit Mexico in 2015, MONEYBACK provides travelers the fastest and easiest way to get their refund. MONEYBACK offers cruise passengers an 8.9% refund of the total amount they spend when shopping in Mexico at any of the 6,000 affiliated stores. There is no limit when paying with credit card, but the minimum purchase required is $1,200 pesos (approx. $83 USD). Purchases in cash don’t require a minimum but are limited to $3,000 (approx. $200 USD). “Cruise travelers spend three times more money in personal shopping when traveling to Mexico than other visitors,” said Danielle van der Kwartel, General Director of MONEYBACK. “MONEYBACK wants to give back by offering them a tax refund in a simple and fast way.” To file a refund, international travelers must request a VAT itemized invoice at any of the 6,000 participating stores when making a purchase and submit it at the closest MONEYBACK office along with the shopping incentive refund form, credit card vouchers, copy of their passport, cruise ID or immigration form and boarding pass, before leaving the country. In less than 45 days, cruise passengers will receive their refund directly in their credit card. MONEYBACK works closely with travel agents by providing training on its services to help them assist their clients when traveling to Mexico. For more information on MONEYBACK and to download presentations and other resources travel agents should visit: http://moneyback.mx/travelagent-taxback.html. MONEYBACK’s tax refund service is an initiative created along with Mexico’s Ministry of Finance to increase tourism, incentive travel and shopping in Mexico. To learn more about MONEYBACK, participating stores and locations please visit: http://moneyback.mx/

MoneyBack Tax Return Company Refunds 8.9% on Personal Shopping Expenses In Mexico

International travelers shopping in Mexico can receive an 8.9% refund of the total amount they spend when shopping in Mexico through MONEYBACK. MONEYBACK, Mexico’s leading tax return company, refunds the value added tax when shoppers purchase at any of the 6,000 affiliated stores. There is no limit when paying with credit card, but the minimum purchase required is $1,200 pesos (approx. $83 USD). Purchases in cash don’t require a minimum but are limited to $3,000 (approx. $200 USD). With more than 50 offices in all major cruise ports, shopping malls and airports- including Mexico City, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, Acapulco, Cancun, Cozumel, Guadalajara, and many more- MONEYBACK covers 98% of Mexico’s air and maritime points of departure, providing cruise travelers and air passengers the fastest and easiest way to get their refund. To file a refund, international travelers must request a VAT itemized invoice at any of the 6,000 participating stores when making a purchase and submit it at the closest MONEYBACK office along with the shopping incentive refund form, credit card vouchers, copy of their passport, cruise ID or immigration form and boarding pass, before leaving the country. In less than 45 days international travelers will receive their refund directly in their credit card. MONEYBACK’s tax refund service is an initiative created along with Mexico’s Ministry of Finance to increase tourism and shopping in Mexico. All international travelers arriving to Mexico by cruise or air are eligible to receive it. To learn more about MONEYBACK, participating stores and locations please visit: http://moneyback.mx/ About MONEYBACK MONEYBACK is Mexico’s leading tax refund service provider for international travelers with over 50 service locations throughout the country, covering 98% of all the points of departure. MONEYBACK opened its doors in August 2008, offering tax refund services in Mexico City and Los Cabos. Since then, the company has expanded to Cancun, Cozumel, Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, among many other destinations in Mexico. Operated by travel industry professionals who understand the needs of international travelers visiting Mexico, MONEYBACK prides in offering fast and efficient tax refund services to leisure and business travelers. Mexico’s leading tax return company refunds 8.9% of shopping expenses to international travelers. MONEYBACK’s goal is to promote the best leisure and business shopping destinations in Mexico. For more information please visit: www.moneyback.mx.

Top Travel Hot Spots And 15 Most Affordable Destinations For 2015

As the New Year rolls around, priceline latest data reveals that the majority of travelers will be heading to warm-weathered cities, which dominated its annual list of top 2015 destinations, based on advanced hotel reservations. From Orlando to Oahu, Costa Rica and Barcelona, travelers are in favor of ditching the snow for sandy beaches and enjoying a relaxing getaway.

“Within the U.S., Las Vegas continues to be a hot spot in the New Year, followed by New Orleans, Miami and Fort Lauderdale – all three cities flew to the top of this year’s list of places to visit,” said priceline.com travel editor Brian Ek. “If interested in traveling abroad, must-visit international destinations include Cancun, Cozumel, Costa Rica and Los Cabos, demonstrating that Latin America is a trendy travel hot spot for 2015.”

For the most bang for your buck, travelers should consider taking a vacation in either Dallas, TX or Salt Lake City, UT, both of which showed the lowest average daily hotel room rates on priceline.com in 2014. Dallas boasts many attractions, including a lakeside Botanical Garden and an indoor ice rink in the Galleria shopping complex connected to a major hotel that’s convenient for travelers. Salt Lake City claims to be the Genealogy Capital of the World where travelers can check out the Family History Library, all while enjoying sweeping, mountainous views.

Other value destinations with the lowest average daily room rates include:

Priceline.com’s 15 Most Affordable Destinations for 2015
Destinations

Dallas, TX
Salt Lake City, UT
Orlando, FL
Charlotte, NC
Phoenix, AZ
Tampa, FL
Las Vegas, NV
Atlanta, GA
Louisville, KY
San Antonio, TX
Houston, TX
Orange County, CA
Minneapolis/ St. Paul, MN
Denver, CO
Portland, OR
$109.30

Those looking to get the best hotel and airfare deals in 2015, in addition to the list above, can also try priceline.com’s Name Your Own Price® offering for up to 60 percent off hotel retail rates and up to 40 percent off airfare by bidding on the room and tickets. Last-minute travelers can grab great deals on priceline.com’s mobile app, which offers Tonight-Only hotel deals for savings up to 50 percent or more, and Air Express Deals® for an average of 20 percent additional savings off of the lowest retail prices.

Priceline.com’s Top 2015 Travel Hot Spots
(Based on advance hotel reservations made on priceline.com)

Orlando, FL
Puerto Rico*
Las Vegas, NV
Cancun/ Cozumel, Mexico*
New Orleans, LA
London, England*
Miami, FL
Rome, Italy*
Ft Lauderdale, FL
Costa Rica*
New York City, NY
Paris, France*
Orange County, CA
Toronto, Canada
Boston, MA
Los Cabos, Mexico*
Atlanta, GA

Sydney, Australia*

Oahu, HI*

Barcelona, Spain*

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Travelore Tips: Mexico’ MoneyBack Refunds 8.9% Of Taxes On Personal Shopping If Traveling On Business

 

MoneyBack, Mexico’s leading tax return service, provides an additional perk for travelers participating in a business meeting, convention or incentives program with the opportunity to received 8.9% sales tax on purchases made at over 6,000 stores in Mexico City, Los Cabos, Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Cozumel, Monterrey, Guadalajara, Acapulco, Ixtapa, Loreto and Merida.

Developed by Mexico’s Treasury Department, the tax refund program was created as a way to boost tourism and shopping in Mexico by refunding the value added tax. It is an additional tax break from the VAT Zero tax incentives Mexico offers meetings and conventions; both are available to US and Canadians. MoneyBack is a service provider that facilitates the steps to obtain the refund.

The purchase must take place at over 6,000 participating stores and be at least 1,200 pesos (around $100.00 USD) and a maximum of 3,000 pesos ($230 dollars), when purchasing in cash. There is no limit on credit card purchases. After purchases, shoppers can take their receipt to a MoneyBack office with the shopping incentive refund form, passport, immigration form and boarding pass to be processed. Refunds are made within 45 days, and deposited to their credit card.

Meeting Planners can download and distribute the refund forms to include in their welcome kits. In addition, MoneyBack can also join the event’s registration to educate participants on the opportunity (contact dvdk@moneyback.mx for more information on this).

Learn more about the MoneyBack program at http://moneyback.mx/