05 June 2009

Mexico sees travel interest revival

Interest in travel to Mexico is recovering following April’s swine flu outbreak, according to new data.

Searches for flights to the country have risen by 15.5% since reaching their lowest point in early May after health fears deterred travellers from visiting the country.

According to cheap flights website Skyscanner, which produced the research, flight prices to Mexico have been cut to as low as £245 return.

Co-founder and director Barry Smith said: "Interest in Mexico is still down compared to what we’d expect for this time of year, but the good news is that Mexico’s tourist industry does now finally appear to be recovering from the swine flu outbreak."

He said the company’s data shows that travellers are rarely deterred for long following international incidents.

"Just look at Thailand; in December 2008, thousands of holidaymakers were stranded during major political protests which closed Bangkok’s two main airports," said Smith.

"But this summer the country is the most popular long haul destination for UK travellers, up 241% in popularity on Skyscanner compared to last year."

Although some travel companies suspended holidays to Mexico, the swine flu virus did not cause the widespread death and disruption that was initially feared.

The Foreign Office then lifted a warning against 'all but essential travel' to Mexico.

by Phil Davies