The picturesque port of Sisal, a popular destination on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, may soon lose its coveted status as a Magical Town. Darío Flota Ocampo, Secretary of Tourism for the State of Yucatán, recently announced that the Mexican Government’s Tourism Secretariat will review the designation of all 177 Magical Towns, including Sisal.
Flota Ocampo revealed that any town can have its Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town) status revoked if it fails to adhere to the program’s guidelines. This has sparked concerns among locals and tourists alike, as Sisal represents the only beach destination in Yucatán to hold this prestigious title.
The port, located in the western part of the state within the municipality of Hunucmá, was designated a Magical Town in 2020. However, residents have been expressing their discontent with the town’s inclusion in the program for years, and a request for its revocation has been ongoing.
Historically, only three locations have lost their Pueblo Mágico designation: Papantla in Veracruz, Tepoztlán in Morelos, and Mexcaltitlán in Nayarit. Each of these towns regained their title after addressing issues such as excessive informal commerce and public disorder.
If Sisal were to lose its Magical Town status, it would likely face severe consequences. The allocated financial resources for the program would be withdrawn, having a negative impact on local businesses and artisans. Moreover, sanctions such as fines could also be imposed, further affecting the town’s economy.
The loss of this designation could have far-reaching effects on Sisal’s tourism industry and its residents’ livelihoods. As the town continues to navigate the challenges ahead, one thing is clear: the future of Sisal’s Magical Town status hangs in the balance.
Timeline of Pueblo Mágico Designations
* 2020: Sisal designated as a Magical Town
* 2009: Papantla in Veracruz, Tepoztlán in Morelos, and Mexcaltitlán in Nayarit lose their Pueblo Mágico designation due to various issues
* 2010: Tepoztlán in Morelos regains its Pueblo Mágico designation
* 2012: Papantla in Veracruz regains its Pueblo Mágico designation
* 2020: Mexcaltitlán in Nayarit regains its Pueblo Mágico designation
Source: Por Esto
