Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco – Puerto Vallarta is rapidly gaining popularity as a preferred destination for North American travelers seeking medical treatments alongside their sun and beach vacations. In an exclusive interview with Luis Villaseñor, the Director of the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Trust, it was revealed that Puerto Vallarta has secured its position as the second-most sought-after destination in Mexico among Canadian travelers, trailing only behind Cancun.
The unexpected surge in medical tourism in Puerto Vallarta can, in part, be attributed to the global pandemic. According to Villaseñor, “The pandemic itself helped us, because in medical tourism, after the border, the destination that has the highest number of visits in this segment is Vallarta.” The COVID-19 crisis prompted many travelers to postpone their medical treatments, leading to a growing demand for healthcare services in this idyllic coastal town.
Puerto Vallarta has responded to this influx of foreign travelers by expanding its range of medical services. Visitors now have access to a wide spectrum of treatments, including dental procedures, medical consultations, and aesthetic enhancements. Notably, many of these services may be tax deductible, making Puerto Vallarta an attractive choice for those seeking quality healthcare while enjoying a tropical getaway.
Before the pandemic struck in 2019, Puerto Vallarta achieved a record-high hotel occupancy rate of 76 percent. This ambitious milestone is projected to be revisited and surpassed by 2023, given the burgeoning demand from the Canadian market and the surging interest in medical services. “We have a very strong medical tourism dynamic due to word of mouth from locals,” Villaseñor remarked, “but it was also enhanced during the pandemic because in Canada, the medical system is private. So, many Canadians postponed their surgical treatments for one to three years as hospitals shifted their focus towards COVID-19.”
Villaseñor further emphasized that the recovery period for medical procedures often necessitates several weeks of stay, further boosting the demand for accommodation in Puerto Vallarta. With more than 22 thousand available rooms, the town is well-prepared to cater to the growing needs of medical tourists, who are drawn not only by the world-class healthcare but also by the town’s natural beauty and serene coastal ambiance.
As Puerto Vallarta emerges as a formidable contender in the realm of medical tourism, it underscores the town’s remarkable ability to adapt and thrive in changing circumstances. With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and now world-class healthcare offerings, Puerto Vallarta is poised to become the ultimate destination for those seeking healing and relaxation in equal measure.
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco - Puerto Vallarta is rapidly gaining popularity as a preferred destination for North American travelers seeking medical treatments alongside their sun and beach vacations. In an exclusive interview with Luis Villaseñor, the Director of the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Trust, it was revealed that Puerto Vallarta has secured its position as the second-most sought-after destination in Mexico among Canadian travelers, trailing only behind Cancun.
