Fiesta Americana Grand Los Cabos MEXiCoBaJa CaliFornia Sur Blessed with a fantastic year-round climate, diverse wildlife, and beautiful landscapes, Los Cabos sits at the tip of the

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With a well-deserved reputation as the best tourism destination in Latin America because of its wonderful range of natural, cultural, and historic attractions, Mexico continues to attract record numbers of tourists from the U.S. and beyond.

According to data compiled by the Ministry of Tourism (SECTUR), 22.7 million foreigners fl ocked to the sun-soaked republic last year, up 2% from the prior year, 6% ahead of 2009, and 0.2% over the former record year of 2008. A new benchmark is anticipated for 2012 due to a surge in demand triggered by the Mayan calendar and the ancient civilization’s infamous prophecy for this year.

As the proud holder of the G-20 Presidency for 2012, Mexico is making fi nal preparations for the arrival of world leaders, senior fi nance offi cials, and hundreds of media representatives for the G-20 Summit in the gorgeous Los Cabos in the State of Baja California Sur.

Organizer Julio Camarena from Mexico’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who has played a key part in arranging the huge function, is looking forward to the summit and says Los Cabos will form a splendid back-drop to the showcase event. “Mexico has held many major political events and we are confi dent the G-20 Summit will set a new bench-

mark given Los Cabos’ world-class facilities, outstanding beauty and rich heritage,” he says. One of the world’s top ten tourist desti-nations by visitor numbers, Mexico remains a top choice for U.S. vacationers, with visitors from over the border comprising one-third of arrivals last year.

Despite negative headlines about security issues, the country attracted record numbers of visitors from Brazil, China, Russia, and Co-lombia in 2011, while arrivals from countries such as Australia, the U.K., France, and Italy all recorded double-digit year-on-year increases. The number of people visiting from Canada and Japan also increased over the previous year.

“We have a 98% repeat visitor rate, and 99 out of every 100 visi-tors recommend our destinations,” Tourism Minister, Gloria Guevara, told delegates at an industry conference earlier this year.

President Felipe Calderón said at the event Mexico’s natural re-sources and cultural heritage are enviable factors that give the country of 115 million people an ideal base for tourism development.

“Mexico is one of the ten most important tourist destinations in the world, but has the potential and assets to grow and be among the top fi ve, though it requires a coordinated effort from all participants,” Guevara added.

“Tourism has become a key activity for our country’s development– in terms of job creation, contribution to GDP, and foreign exchange earnings—but also because of what it represents socially and cultur-ally; it generates and reinforces a sense of belonging and pride to promote our roots and cultural and natural diversity.”

BaJa CaliFornia SurBlessed with a fantastic year-round climate, diverse wildlife, and beautiful landscapes, Los Cabos sits at the tip of the 1,000-mile long Baja Peninsula. It is a hugely popular tourist destination thanks to its wide range of award-winning hotels and resorts, pristine beaches, championship golf courses, vibrant nightlife, colonial architecture,

MEXiCoGolden DestinationWith the countdown to the G-20 Summit now well underway, Mexico is attracting record numbers of international tourists seeking the vacation of a lifetime.

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Gloria Guevara ManzoMinister of Tourism for Mexico


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modern luxury spas, and world-class sport fishing.Comprised primarily of two towns—San José del Cabo and Cabo

San Lucas—Los Cabos is an exotic escape blending the sea and desert and sitting within easy reach of most of the U.S. San José del Cabo International Airport is served by non-stop flights and connec-tions to many cities on the other side of the border.

However, these excellent air connections do not just benefit U.S. citizens, as forward-thinking changes to the immigration system mean foreign passport owners holding U.S. visas can cross the border without having to apply to Mexican authorities for a separate entry clearance document.

Blending natural, historic, and cultural attractions, the region is visited by hundreds of thousands of business and leisure travelers each year. In June 2012 the state will be the proud host of the high-profile G-20 Summit. Organizers of the prestigious gathering selected Los Cabos because the “tourist destination has all of the necessary facilities and is the appropriate place to hold this important interna-tional event.”

The G-20 Summit will showcase the very best of Baja Califor-nia Sur to international economic and political leaders and a global audience, with state tourism agency Los Cabos Convention & Visitors Bureau confident it will boost visitor numbers that have risen 5% a year in recent times.

Boasting sun-kissed white beaches and sparkling turquoise waters that teem with an array of natural wildlife including sea lions, fish, and rare whales, Los Cabos is extremely popular with scuba divers. Adventurous eco-tours are the ideal way to explore its diverse terrain of tranquil deserts and forested mountains.

Frequently rated one of the best hotels in Mexico, the award- winning Hotel Fiesta Americana Grand Los Cabos offers guests the very best luxury accommodation in beautiful and tranquil

surroundings.The five-star hotel will host

scores of delegates during this summer’s G-20 conference. Business and leisure travelers can choose from 249 guest rooms and 39 “Grand Club” rooms, and relax after a round on one of the hotel’s two championship golf

course with a soothing drink in three bars. Diners can indulge their passions in a range of domestic and international cuisine from top chefs in three upmarket restaurants.

Hotel Fiesta Americana Grand Los Cabos also boasts Mexico’s only wine spa, while other amenities include a business center, several swimming pools, state-of-the-art fitness center, deep-sea fishing excur-sions, and round-the-clock concierge service.

“We have been designated one of the six hotels of the G-20 Sum-mit, which is an incredible privilege,” says Alberto Gurrola, managing director of the upscale hotel. “We are ready for each and every group

“Mexico is one of the ten most important tourist destinations in the world.”

Gloria Guevara Manzo, Minister of Tourism for Mexico

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and are looking forward to experiencing the G-20 every day. We offer guests a sophisticated Mexican flavor (no jacket, no ties, Oriental neck), with a service like that available in Oriental countries, as well as aromatherapy in the lobby.

“People coming to luxury hotels have money to buy anything in the world. When coming here, they are looking for something money cannot buy, something unique.”

This positive view of the area’s prospects is shared by the State of Baja California Sur Tourism Secre-tary, Rubén Reachi, who highlights “places of incomparable beauty and the potential to develop tourist destinations for international and national communities.”

“Los Cabos attracts 80-90% of all tourists to the state, La Paz 7-8%, and Loreto and the other mu-nicipalities the rest,” an upbeat Reachi explains. “La Paz is rediscover-ing its natural beauty; it’s the aquarium of the world, with gorgeous beaches, fishing, and nautical tourism. It’s the jumping off point for the entire Sea of Cortez. We want to develop the specific traits of La Paz, Loreto, and other places in the state with tourist potential. It’s great that we have Los Cabos to help us develop these other areas.”

The charming city of La Paz is one of the most romantic vacation destinations in Mexico with its ancient architecture, virgin coast-line, and splendid sunsets making it popular with honeymooners. Discovered in 1535 and originally called Villa de la Santa Cruz, La

Paz features beautiful stone buildings and is home to many hotels and restaurants. Discovered in 1535, the city was originally called Villa de la Santa Cruz. Nearly 500 years later, the city is relatively unchanged, with local artisans selling their wares in the streets and at markets, while the interiors of modern stores and restaurants are in sharp contrast to the city’s many beautiful stone buildings.

In addition to tourists, domestic and foreign investors are looking to take advantage of the region’s growing popularity, though local officials have promised to protect the region’s heritage. This includes the historic town of Loreto and its stone-paved streets, while just a few minutes’ drive away sit moun-tains and valleys that attract hikers and off-road bikers.

“We have to preserve the essence of La Paz, but we have to im-prove,” Reachi acknowledges. “We also have a big advantage thanks to a very important resource in gastronomy. We have to support our investors and create a system of incentives for investment in certain places.”

SinaloaThe breadbasket of Mexico–thanks to its fertile soil and favorable climate for crop growing–Sinaloa is so much more than just farming, fishing, and livestock breeding, as growing numbers of domestic and foreign tourists are discovering to their delight.

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With an unspoiled coastline made up of mile after mile of golden beaches lapped by the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean, Sinaloa sits on the famous “Mexican Riviera” and thoroughly deserves its reputa-tion as a sun-seekers’ paradise.

The second largest city in the state—but certainly the best known thanks to its busy port that is used by tens of thousands of cruise and ferry passengers a year–—Mazatlán was founded in the 16th Century and is steeped in history and culture.

The city is the capital of the area’s “Golden Zone,”, a region that includes the popular nature paradise “Stone Island” where visitors can view a fascinating range of colorful birds in their natural habitat, surrounded by untouched beaches.

In recent years, millions of dollars of state and federal funding as well as huge amounts of foreign direct investment (FDI) have flowed into Sinaloa, with Mazatlán and other areas benefiting from a wide range of new infrastructure, facilities, and services. While much of this progress has been overlooked by international media, tourism officials insist people can enjoy safe vacations. To underscore this point, a major promotional and marketing campaign was launched last year, with the initiative supported by large-scale funding.

“Sinaloa is the state where the wealth and diversity of ancient history and culture flow generously, together with marvellous natural resources and, of course, the nobility and happiness of our people,” says state Secretary of Tourism, Oralia Rice. “Mazatlán is an ideal, affordable vacation choice with endless possibilities: aquatic sports, kids’ activities, fishing, bird-watching, golf, tennis, horseback riding, fine dining, shopping, and nightlife. The city is a fabulous destina-

tion for experiencing the real Mexico and a premier location on the Mexican Golden Coast, boasting long stretches of palm-lined beaches, ideal for experiencing spectacular sunsets and pampering oneself in one of the luxury hotels and resorts. In addition, one can visit the active seaport and historical attractions, enjoy hiking, bird-watching, aquatic sports and much, much more.”

Situated a couple of hundred miles north of Mazatlán, Los Mochis is a young and vibrant city that generates most of its revenue from fishing and tourism—the area is home to many upmarket resorts—while its promenade is one of the longest in the world at 21kms. Called the “Mazatlán Malecón, the picturesque promenade attracts street vendors, market stalls, performers, entertainers, artists, and musicians who play to enthralled passers-by and crowds of all ages. The city is also famous for its colorful carnival that celebrates the traditional “La Tambora Sinaloense” music and its famous rhythm that appeals to music lovers of all ages.

GuerreroHome to one of—if not the—world’s most famous vacation destina-tions, Acapulco, the southern State of Guerrero is strategically located between Mexico City and the Pacific Ocean and is enjoying solid tour-ism growth despite occasional security concerns.

Once popular with leading Hollywood stars and celebrities, Acapulco continues to pull in tourists from the four corners of the world, though a new highway connecting the resort to the federal capital has halved the journey time and provided a strong boost to domestic tourist numbers.



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Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Pacific,” Acapulco now attracts more local tourists than foreigners, though city and state chiefs emphasise steady progress is being made to improve the well-publicized security situation. Such issues have certainly failed to deter Mexicans from visiting the city, with numbers rising strongly in recent years thanks to rising disposable incomes. “Acapulco is Mexico’s tourist destination par excellence. It’s the most emblem-atic one, the one that introduced Mexico to the world. Acapulco is Mexico City’s beach, the second largest in the world in terms of population, and it’s the eighth richest city in the world in terms of purchasing power,” says Secretary of Tourism for the State of Guer-rero, Graciela Báez.

Secretary Báez explains state officials are trying to “reactivate” existing infrastructure in addition to funding new public infra-structure such as roads, with private investors encouraged to take advantage of generous fiscal incentives like tax breaks, and breathe new life into old hotels.

“What we have to do is reactivate the infrastructure we already have, which is all of the hotels along the coastline. Right now we want to promote reinvestment in the golden age of Acapulco and the traditional Acapulco. But, of course, we’ll support and offer incentives to new tourism developments that are moving towards Diamante and beyond, towards one of the seven coasts of Guerrero known as La Costa Chica (Little Coast).

“We’re focused on reviving the heart of Acapulco, which is the traditional Acapulco, the Acapulco of the bay. Again, all investment is welcome, as it brings employment.”

Báez continues: “We’re also making an effort to bring back the big events that Acapulco once had but lost, because that helps us position ourselves nationally and internationally. But it’s not enough to organize good events. You also have to set up package deals with hotels; it has to be a complete tourism product.”

With a tropical climate and more than 300 miles of lovely coast-line, Guerrero is much more than just Acapulco, with the rest of the state having plenty to offer visitors of all ages. This includes historic caves, ancient monuments and old buildings, beautiful scenery, rare cultural treasures, and events and wonderful gastronomy.

However, given the city’s importance to regional revenue genera-tion, job creation, and international image, tourism authorities are doing all they can to boost the resort’s reputation and attract fresh investment. This includes promotional campaigns and the launch of a new tourism website. The region has also attracted investment

thanks to fiscal in-centives provided by the state. “Investors do not pay certain taxes for a period of time such as five, six, or eight years. It’s very beneficial for them to build in these areas, and the government doesn’t lose anything either,” says Báez.

“We do a lot

of national promotion, but also international, mainly in the North American and European markets,” adds Báez. “By 2016 we will have repositioned Acapulco’s international reputation and will have grown 10% in terms of international tourists. Remember Acapulco; the best is yet to come.”

Meanwhile, regarded as one of the best construction companies in the neighboring State of Puebla and Mexico—the firm was includ-ed on a 2008 list of the country’s best builders—AISA Constructora de Puebla S.A. de C.V. holds two international awards and is the only ISO9001: 2008 certified constructor for all processes. Located close to the country’s bustling capital, the forward-thinking firm is eager to form profitable partnerships with foreign enterprises. “One of our competitive advantages is we produce our own materials,” explains AISA director general Juan Caballero, “and we are very interested in working with international companies.”

Located around 1,000 miles to the east of the State of Puebla, Cancún in the State of Quintana Roo, remains a leading destination for foreign travelers and the main gateway to the country for leisure visitors given the large number of international flights that arrive daily, with many foreigners investing in local real estate.

Established three decades ago, Dinamica Realtors and Consult-ants has prospered thanks to this trend and has worked on several major projects in the famous beach resort and, in recent years, formed successful alliances in the U.S., Canada, and Spain.

“Our objective is complete and integral consultancy through-out the whole proc-ess of development and commercializa-tion of real estate products,” says Di-namica Realtors and Consultants President Álvaro Cámara. •

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Given Mexico’s coveted position as one of the world’s top 10 tourist destinations by visitor numbers, few will be surprised to learn that the country is home to Latin America’s number one vacation destination– the State of Quintana Roo on the stunning Yucatán Peninsula.

With its golden beaches lapped by the warm waters of the Carib-bean Sea, more than 12 million people a year flock to enjoy Quintana Roo’s beautiful beaches, tropical climate, countless areas of outstand-ing natural beauty, pulsating nightlife, great food, and wonderful hospitality and cuisine.

Visitors can choose from a wide selection of accommodations, ranging from upscale hotels and all-inclusive five-star resorts to hotels that are easier on the wallet. To cope with this growing influx, the forward-thinking state has constructed dozens of new hotels and the region now offers more than 80,000 hotel rooms.

Just a few hours by plane from most major U.S. cities, the region is the gateway to the historic Mayan culture and delivers a world-class tourism product; from the vibrant party resort of Cancún to quaint and quieter towns like Mahahual, Chacchoben, Grand Costa Maya, Bacalar, Chetumal, and Zona Maya.

In addition to tourists, the state has become a magnet for millions of dollars of FDI, with both the state and federal governments recog-nizing the importance of tourism to the area and investing substantial sums in new infrastructure and services.

As Minister of Tourism, Gloria Guevara, notes: “The potential Mexico has for tourism is recognized abroad. Tourism has become a key activity for the country’s development, because of what it means in the generation of jobs, its participation in the GDP as well as in terms of foreign exchange earnings.”

Turning to the country’s fight against organised crime that has made headlines around the world, she continues: “Our tourist areas are now safe, secure, and constantly monitored. They are not affected by violence at all. Anyone—foreigners and nationals—can visit our tourism areas without incurring any kind of risk regarding their per-sonal safety.”

Roberto Borge, Governor of the State of Quintana Roo, echoes the Minister’s positive outlook and says tourist numbers are now back at record levels despite such security issues and the major impact on the industry caused by the global financial crisis.

“We would like to use our wonderful and large tourism sector to create more economic activity and competitive advantages, particularly in agribusiness, forestry, aquaculture and fishing, information and communications technology and manufacturing,” he says.

“We are going to consolidate the cultural sites in each area with the coastal regions and strengthen the quality of what we offer. We are going to develop the infrastructure as well. We are the number one state for cruises in Mexico, with ports in Cozumel, Mahahual, and Calica. In fact, Cozumel is the largest receiving port for transatlantic boats. It represents about 3.5 million visitors a year.

“Quintana Roo is going to become a green state that takes care of its natural resources and protects its environment. A third of the ter-ritory is considered protected by the government; our green areas are what the state is known for and what keep the economy moving, so we must take care of them.”

Governor Borge affirms he and his colleagues recognize the importance of tourism to the region’s overall well-being and future

Quintana rootourist Magnet is number oneBlending nature, tradition, history, and culture, the sun-soaked state on the Yucatán Peninsula is home to magnificent Mayan ruins.


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The place to challenge your senses.

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Riviera maya & Cozumel a spectacular union of history and nature.

Cozumel

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socioeconomic development, highlighting data that shows the state attracts more than 12 million visitors a year who spend, on average, $13,000.

“Tourism accounts for 80% of the eco-nomic movement in the region,” he continues, adding the area has first-class transport infra-structure like an extensive highways networks, several cruise and ferry terminals, and three international airports that means the state is the “international gateway to Central and South America.”

Stick a pin anywhere in a map of the State of Quintana Roo and you can’t fail to touch upon one of its many natural, historic, cultural, or traditional treasures. One such example is the Grand Costa Maya, which sits in the southern part of the Mexican Caribbean.

As the name suggest, the area showcases the best of Mayan culture and is a sunny natural paradise. Chetumal, the state capital, is considered the ideal starting point to visit the archaeological corridor of Oxtankah, Kohunlich, Dzibanché, Kinichnah, and Chacchoben.

Each of the half dozen sites showcases remains of this great ancient civilization, while Chetumal boasts a Mayan museum as well as a beautiful bay and manatee sanctuary. Surrounded on all sides by lush jungle that teems with exotic fauna and wildlife, the Mayan temples and pyramids found at Chacchoben make it one of the area’s most popular tourist attractions.

Discovered just 40 years ago, the precious ruins were only opened to the public a decade ago, and the chance to explore the remarkably preserved 8th Century site during a day-trip is certainly an opportunity that should not be missed.

Among the other highlights of the Grand Costa Maya are the welcoming small town of Bacalar, which lies close to the incredible “Seven Colors Lagoon,” and the stunning and sacred underground lagoon Blue Cenote, where visitors can swim in its cool and refreshing waters. Home to the historic “Fortress de San Felipe Bacalar,” in 2006 the town was selected for the Mexican Tourism Ministry’s prestigious “Magical Villages Program,” launched in 2001, the initiative only features “magical” places—symbolized by legends, history, important

events and social and cultural treasures.Back on the coast, the tranquil fishing

town of Mahahual is an ideal destination for beach lovers and those who love excellent cuisine. Blessed with a colorful array of marine wildlife, the area is popular with scuba divers, with the Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve a particularly popular choice. The historic town is also a leading destination for Caribbean cruise liners, with an estimated 15,000 passengers a week taking the op-portunity to explore its narrow streets, great

beaches, and various restaurants and bars.For those tourists who prefer a more active holiday, Uchben Kah

and Biomaya parks offer mountain biking, canoeing, interpretive hik-ing, and zip-lines, while adventurous travelers can swim in the Golden Crocodile Cenote or sail on the Rio Hondo and the currents used by devious pirates many centuries ago.

Located in the center of the State of Quintana Roo, the Mayan Zone is the cultural heart of the area and the living legacy of its ancestors, a corridor full of exuberant nature and a far-reaching history that will enchant and delight in equal measure. This mysterious and captivating culture is illustrated perfectly by the inhabitants of Felipe Carrillo Puerto—the municipality with the largest Mayan population in Mexico that still preserves its ancient traditions.

“The communities of the Mayan Region witnessed, for more than 50 years, the most important battles of the Mayan people against the government of their time. Nowadays, they conscientiously protect their traditions, the Mayan language, and the ways of living that are over 200 years old: the legacy of the ancient Mayan culture,” explains Juan Carlos González, Tourism Secretary for the State of Quintana Roo. “Our people, proud of their roots, offer every visitor a warm and unique experience: the heritage of the Mayan culture.”

Throughout the year, Mayan villages honor their saints through traditional celebrations, the most important of which are the Fiesta de los Tres Reyes (the Three Wise Men) and the Feria de la Primavera y de Las Tres Cruces (the Three Crosses and Spring). A range of cultural activities take place, such as peregrinations, gremios (religious parades

Snorkel and swim in the Mayan Zone’s enchanting underground lagoonsThe world-famous beach resort of Cancún, mile after mile of golden sand

roberto Borge anguloGovernor of Quintana Roo

Juan Carlos González HernándezSecretary of Tourism of Q. Roo


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The place to challenge your senses.

www.cozumel.travel

Riviera maya & Cozumel a spectacular union of history and nature.

Cozumel

Riviera Maya

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organized by work guilds), prayers, offerings, bullfighting, and the planting of “Yax-che” (the Tree of Life).

But the Mayan Zone is not just famous for its cultural values, with the area featuring many huge caves, lagoons, cenotes, and precious archaeological sites. This stunning scenery is found at various sites, including the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve and José María Morelos, with its enigmatic Church Route (a journey between several historic churches) and traditional villages such as Kantemó, Sabán, Sacalaca and Huay Max.

Taking its name from the Mayan phrase for “Place where the sky is born,” the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is the ideal place for nature lovers willing to dive into the adventure of forest treks or paddle and swim in the still waters of the la-goon system used by the ancient Maya as part of commercial maritime routes.

Featuring colorful landscapes of savannah and wetlands, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is the third largest in Mexico and protects more than 500,000 hectares of tropical ecosystems of the State of Quintana Roo. Home to forests, savannahs, and other floodplain vegetation, the site also includes a portion of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest in the world.

The eye-catching reserve is also home to at least 800 species of plants and provides habitat for more than 360 species of birds and other animals such as jaguars, pumas, ocelots, spider monkeys, howler monkeys, crocodiles, and various types of turtles.

Just 40 years ago, Cancún was a beachfront jungle rather than a modern city famous for its beaches, nightlife and luxury hotels. Particularly popular with Americans, the city is home to some of the best nightclubs in the world and also offers romantic restaurants next to the Nichupté Lagoon. Golfers can try their skills on one of several challenging courses while local markets display artisanal crafts and modern shopping malls offer a broad range of duty-free bargains.

A gorgeous island comprised of white sand beaches and impres-sive natural architecture carved into the cliffs and marine parks with incredible reefs, Isla Mujeres is best enjoyed by golf cart, scooter, or

bike. Visitors who tire of terra firma can jump on a boat and marvel at Garrafon National Park and get even closer to nature by diving in the Cave of the Sleeping Sharks and beautiful reefs. Aquatic sports such as sailing and windsurfing are also available.

The Island of Holbox is one of the few places in the world that shelters whale sharks—the world‘s largest living fish—and also allows visitors to view up close and even swim with this peaceful animal. This magical island comprises unmatchable landscapes that are surrounded by exotic species and white-sand beaches full of quaint Caribbean-style wood houses. It is also the jumping-off point for several tourist sites such as Bird Island, where you’ll be able to watch hundreds of different bird species, and Yalahau, a natural spring

water creek. Fishing, diving, and snorkelling can also be enjoyed by visitors of all ages.

The stunningly picturesque Riviera Maya is blessed with everything from gorgeous natural sites with quiet environments to exotic stores, delicious restau-rants, and original bars that hum with music and conversation.

Long-established as a favorite destination for foreign travelers, the Riviera Maya boasts imposing archaeological sites such as Coba and other natural attractions like the water-filled sinkholes where you can visit and swim in its fresh sweet waters or practice cave diving. For those who wish to stay dry, the town of Puerto Aventuras is the ideal place for soaking up the sun or watching boats come and go at the legendary marina.

The attractive island of the Mayan Fertility Goddess “Ixchel,” Cozumel is home to the second largest reef in the world, making it a popular vacation destination for snorkelers and scuba divers, as well as lovers of marine wildlife.

The largest and most beautiful inhabited island in Mexico, Cozumel proudly maintains an environmental reserve called Punta Sur, while its bustling boulevards and gastronomic delights are complemented by stunning sunsets and—like the rest of the State of Quintana Roo—a laid-back lifestyle.•

“We are the number one state for cruises in Mexico, with three port destinations.”

Roberto Borge Angulo, Governor of the State of Quintana Roo


Chetumal, preserving Mayan cultureCancún is also famous for its bustling bars, restaurants and stores


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Education is at the heart of Mexican federal and state government spending plans and investment drives, with public and private sector officials throughout the ambitious country recognizing the importance of giving young people the chance to learn and develop skills that will boost the repub-

lic’s socio-economic development. Bordered by the states of Coahuila, Tamaulipas, and San Luis

Potosí, as well as Texas, Nuevo León is taking advantage of its envi-able strategic position to invest heavily in its acclaimed education system that reinforces its hold on Mexico’s most prestigious public and private institutions.

Nuevo León State Education Secretary José Antonio González says its “magic recipe” is formed of an “enterprising culture, character, and always trying to be the leader in whatever we undertake.” “Nuevo León continues to develop, create jobs, attract investors, and maintain its

leadership of the domestic education system,” he explains. “In recent years we’ve developed a large number of research institutions that allow the state to develop as a society of learning.”

One of the oldest universities in Mexico, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL) was established in 1933, though its roots can be traced back nearly 200 years to when the original institution was a law school. Over the past 79 years, the university has gained a well-deserved reputation for outstanding academic achievement and become a leading center of innovative research. Now the third-largest public university in Mexico and the most important institution of high-er learning in the country’s northeast region, the UANL has 142,000 students and boasts ties with nearly 150 other universities.

THe JeWel in MexiCo’S eduCaTion CroWnLocated in several sites in the bustling and beautiful city of Monterrey, the UANL is the jewel in Nuevo León’s education crown. Once famous for its huge industrial activity, Monterrey has in recent years trans-formed itself into a center of innovation and technological develop-ment, with the UANL at the heart of this drive and a key figure in the city’s technological and commercial future. Surrounded by attractive scenery such as majestic mountains, the city is rich in culture with many art galleries, theaters, and creative facilities.

The UANL has seven distinct campuses that offer 250 academic programs in areas such as law, business, biological sciences, chem-istry, public accounting, humanities, arts, and sports. With hundreds of highly skilled researchers, the UANL is the region’s most impor-tant research-based educational institute and the leading choice for young people from across the country and beyond. Thanks to funding provided by the National Council for Science and Technology, the uni-versity is empowered to develop innovative and collaborative projects in the public and private sectors. The UANL World Trade Center gives students the opportunity to gain valuable experience through its close links with entrepreneurs, investors, and inventors.

Jesús Ancer, rector of the UANL, says academic courses are based on competences that are “measurable and that adjust to the needs of the market” when necessary. He highlights the importance of research, describing it as the “cherry on the top” on a strategic model that places a heavy emphasis on continuous training processes and international exchange programs.

“Our vision for 2012 is to consolidate the university academically, gain national and international accreditations for all our programs, and create new careers such as multi-media, digital animation, interna-tional business management, and aeronautical engineering. This vision synthesizes the aspiration and institutional commitment to strengthen-ing the quality of education.” Rector Ancer continues: “The university

Education Key to Bright FutureSubstantial investment in schools, colleges, and universities will benefit the whole country.



www.uam.mx

E D U C A T I O N ∙ R E S E A R C H ∙ C U L T U R E

UAMcomunidad @UAM_comunidad

Basic Science and Engineering

Biology and Health

Social Science

Art and Design

Natural Science and Design

Communication Science and Design

UAM AN OPEN HOUSE TO TIME

With capacity for 50,000 students, and more than 140 study programs at under- and post-graduate level delivered by committed, expert tutors, the UAM provides the ultimate learning experience for Mexican and international students.

antonio leaño reyes Rector, UAG

Jesús ancer rodríguezRector, UANL

José antonio Gloria MoralesEducation Secretary of Jalisco

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has 141,000 students and is divided into different levels. There are 29 upper intermediate schools, four of which include technical courses, the others are preparatory schools—high school level—with 54,000 students, and the rest offer 71 undergraduate and postgraduate plans.

“And we have an overall educational offering of 271 programs, which include 30 doctorates, master’s degrees, specialties, and so on. We have 26 colleges, 29 preparatory schools, 35 research centers, 15,000 workers, and almost 7,000 professors, and we cover 35 municipalities in the state.”

Another state making giant strides in its education system is Jalisco, with officials striving to make Guadalajara the new national leader in terms of quality education for today’s young people and future generations. Jalisco State Education Secretary José Antonio Gloria is increasing investment in schools, colleges, and universities, with students benefiting from better learning tools and greater access to technology. “Education is the road to progress but it involves more than just the school; parents, community, and society must also give support and guidance,” he says.

Founded in 1935, Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara (UAG) is a prestigious and popular seat of learning, with the university a top choice for medical students due to its long-established reputation as a leading destination for trainee doctors and health specialists. Nearly 1,500 of the medical school’s 4,000 students are foreigners, with the UAG’s extensive range of courses—ranging from primary to doctor-ates—attracting an additional 11,000 students.

“One percent of doctors practicing in the U.S. are graduates of the UAG,” says rector Antonio Leaño, adding there are more than

50 affiliated teaching hospitals in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. “Our most prestigious school is the medical school, which now has 4,000 students, and almost one-third of them are foreigners.”

“We have an advantage over other institutions because of our close partnerships with businesses,” he continues. “We’re one of the universities with the most collective agreements. We have more than 100 international and national agreements with private companies, universities, and governments.”

Having recently celebrated its 75th anniversary, the UAG has ambitious plans for the future, as the rector explains: “Our goal is to increase enrolment and attract 20,000 students. Last year we had a 26% increase in first-time enrolment, which means that what we’ve been doing is headed in the right direction. We have very extensive campuses and four hotels and hospitals.”

Located across several campuses in Mexico City, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM) is a popular choice for local and foreign students, with the institution offering nearly 150 degree topics to around 50,000 young people.

Courses include social sciences, art and design, communication studies, and science-related degrees such as biology, physics, and chemistry. Ambitious and fast-growing, the UAM launched a 14-year development plan last year that aims to enhance its reputation and help Mexico develop a knowledge-based society. “For nearly four decades, the UAM has enjoyed an outstanding level of scientific research,” says rector general Enrique Fernández. “We promote differ-ent careers than the usual ones so our students stand a better chance of employment.”•

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operations in any other country. “You can use a companies special license to invest in companies

within countries that we have signed treaties with. There are great fiscal benefits to this, as there are great savings to be made,” Fanny says.

Today, the work of commercial and offshore banks is a signifi-cant contributor to Seychelles’ gross domestic product—services as a whole contribute 66%. “Offshore banking creates a great service that allows investors to access funds internationally and build up a history which moves with the client. It is also much more tax-efficient than onshore banking as there is no VAT charged.”

SuBHead GoeS Here Peter Sinon, Minister of Investment, Natural Resources, and Industry, is keen to encourage foreign investment in a number of key industries, including tourism and fisheries.

With more than a million kilometers of sea surrounding the island, Seychelles lies at the center of the migratory routes of the western Indian Ocean’s tuna stocks, which means tuna and other fish are in abundant supply. The country houses the world’s second-largest tuna canning factory—Indian Ocean Tuna (IOT), which is partly owned by MW Brand. Tuna accounts for 95% of national

exports. While industrial fisheries provide a steady supply of fish to IOT,

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