Los Cabos Recognized Among Mexico's Safest Municipalities
Los Cabos, Mexico, is set for a stellar 2024 with increased US flight routes, safety boosting tourism, and economic growth. Challenges like human trafficking and dengue are addressed, while social initiatives and a unique tattoo artist add to the city's vibrant allure.
Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, stands as a beacon of prosperity and development, recognized by the Mexican Institute for Competitiveness as the most competitive “small” city in the country. This accolade is attributed to various factors, with the air connectivity of Los Cabos being a standout feature. According to Rodrigo Esponda Cascajares, head of the Los Cabos Tourism Trust (FITURCA), the city is set to enhance its global connections with the addition of at least four new routes from the United States in 2024.
Safety is a cornerstone of Los Cabos' allure, earning it a position as one of the three safest municipalities in Mexico. Mayor Oscar Leggs Castro emphasizes that this safety attracts investment and fosters continuous development, creating a robust economic environment. As a premier tourist destination in the country, Los Cabos continues to draw visitors who revel in the natural attractions and the renowned Palmilla Beach.
Palmilla Beach, located at km 27 of the Transpeninsular highway, stands as an iconic destination, recognized with the Blue Flag for its cleanliness and pristine waters. A favorite among locals and tourists, Palmilla Beach hosts various events, including the prestigious Iron Man competition, solidifying its status as a must-visit locale.
Economic development in Los Cabos is further strengthened by the Regional Market, where over 110 producers contribute to the local economy. Director of Business Linkage and Promotion, Karla Gonzalez, highlights the integration of producers into points of sale within the destination, creating a vibrant marketplace.
However, the city is not without challenges. Los Cabos, alongside six other Mexican destinations, is under scrutiny for cases of sexual trafficking of minors. The Ministry of Tourism recently organized a workshop to strengthen collaboration networks for tourism free of human trafficking, shedding light on the issue and encouraging collective efforts to combat this crime.
In the realm of public health, Los Cabos faces an increase in dengue cases, particularly higher than other areas in Baja California Sur. Dr. Zazil Flores, head of the Ministry of Health, outlines strategies to address this concern, highlighting the importance of community awareness and proactive measures.
Positive strides are also evident in healthcare services, with the Cabo San Lucas General Hospital now equipped to perform cleft lip and palate surgeries. This development ensures that patients no longer need to be transferred to the Juan María de Salvatierra General Hospital in La Paz, signifying progress in specialized care within the region.
On the social front, efforts to combat HIV in Los Cabos are commendable, with approximately 730 patients in follow-up, and no reported cases of mother-to-newborn transmission in the past 14 years. Free rapid tests have played a pivotal role in monitoring and reducing the number of cases.
The Los Cabos Municipal DIF System's completion of the first “Colonia Modelo” is a historic achievement, providing 300 homes for vulnerable families. This initiative, led by Flora Aguilar de Leggs, aims to create spaces that cater to the needs of the most disadvantaged sectors of society.
Amidst these positive developments, the Superior Court of Justice President, Magistrate Raúl Juan Mendoza Unzón, advocates for the construction of a cohabitation center for children in response to a significant increase in marital dissolutions, particularly affecting children in Los Cabos.
Finally, the viral sensation of a local tattoo artist, known as alexmtz75, showcases the vibrant and creative spirit of Los Cabos. With a unique job – tattooing the buttocks of female tourists on the beaches of Cabo San Lucas – alexmtz75 has become a social media sensation, garnering millions of views and followers.
As Los Cabos continues to soar on various fronts, from economic growth and enhanced connectivity to social initiatives and cultural expressions, it solidifies its position as a dynamic and thriving destination in Mexico. The year 2024 promises to bring even more opportunities for progress and prosperity to this remarkable city.