Cozumel Vivo is an initiative driven by leaders in the hotel industry on the island of Cozumel. It is a movement committed to a new paradigm: regenerative tourism, which seeks to restore ecosystems, strengthen local communities, and create meaningful experiences for visitors.
Representatives of this initiative presented their ideas during the Cozumel Vivo POP UP, held at the Hotel Fontán Reforma. The event brought together tourism industry leaders, environmentalists, artists, and the community to share progress and lessons learned, and to foster active collaboration for the regeneration of the destination.
The event marked the prelude to the second edition of the Cozumel Vivo festival, which will be held on the island from July 11 to 13, with activities focused on wellness, culture, sports, art, gastronomy, and nature. The raison d’être of Cozumel Vivo
Recognized as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO since 1996, Cozumel protects more than 60,000 hectares of terrestrial and marine ecosystems, including the second largest coral reef in the world and 50 endemic species. The island is also home to Mayan vestiges and a deep cultural connection that reinforces its biocultural identity.
As a result of the expansion of tourism on the island, the ecological balance and health of the ecosystems have been threatened. That is why today, more than ever, a proposal like Cozumel Vivo and regenerative tourism is relevant.
Key Voices at the Meeting
During the event in Mexico City, various figures shared reflections on the present and future of Cozumel:
Beatriz Tinajero, president of the Cozumel Hotel Association and CEO of Hoteles BF, emphasized: “Tourism can be a transformative force if it is used to regenerate the environment and the community.”
Alejandra Téllez, director of Parley for the Oceans, highlighted the environmental challenges facing the island, such as plastic pollution and overfishing, and called for collective action.
Javier Pizaña, of the Coral Reef Alliance, and Dr. Camilo Cortés, a marine science expert, addressed the critical state of the coral ecosystem and scientific strategies for its restoration.
Gustavo Ortega, general director of Vinícola El Cielo, shared success stories in sustainability within the Mexican tourism industry.
María de Lourdes Prieto, executive president of CNET, highlighted the responsibility of the business sector in leading a new vision of tourism.
Gemma Santana, director of Elijo x el Clima A.C., proposed redefining tourism as an engine of social well-being and ecological restoration.
Andrés Martínez, President of the Quintana Roo Tourism Promotion Council, underscored the urgency of shifting tourism success indicators toward metrics of community well-being, conservation, and quality of experience.
Art, Introspection, and Partnerships
The event also featured sensory and cultural experiences, including a cacao ritual with Vania Erives, guided meditations by Marcos Jassan and Tania Fierro, and an art and craft showcase featuring positive-impact brands.
Arely Gómez, public relations manager for Hoteles BF, introduced the participating partners and emphasized: “Partnerships between government, private sector, artists, and civil society are essential to building a tourism industry that regenerates and connects.”
Cozumel Vivo Fest: July 11–13
The second edition of the Cozumel Vivo Festival will be a celebration of life, culture, and connection with nature. It will bring together visitors, locals, and experts for transformative experiences in one of the most iconic destinations in the Mexican Caribbean.
Date: July 11–13, 2025.
Location: Cozumel Island, Quintana Roo.
Activities: wellness, art, local cuisine, sports, nature, and culture.
Source: mexicodesconocido
