Cozumel, Q.R. — The island of Cozumel is gaining ground in film tourism, or cinetourism, a niche market. Elias Farah Ceh, the municipality’s Director of Tourism, says this niche market could become a driving force for the island’s local economy.
Farah Ceh says already this year they have been approached by four international production companies to shoot commercials on island beaches.
“Cozumel is a tourist destination that has all the characteristics and advantages to become one of the best film tourism locations, thanks to its landscapes and natural locations, but above all, its safety,” he said.
After visiting the set of a commercial that will air worldwide next year, Farah Ceh emphasized that the destination’s natural beauty is the perfect setting for this type of production.
He says the island of Cozumel has the necessary elements to attract film, television, documentary and commercial productions, thereby generating economic benefits, jobs and tourism promotion for the island.
He said recently, a 32-person crew of 12 foreigners and 20 Mexicans visited the island. They occupied 42 hotel rooms for several days, generating tourism promotion benefits for restaurants, travel agencies and vehicle rentals needed for transportation during filming.
He noted that in the last three months, Cozumel has been visited by six different production teams, three of which have been location scouts.
The presence of studios and events related to this market segment increases the visibility and prestige of the destination, which is considered a dream natural setting with the Caribbean Sea.
He says the island is also a prime attraction for underwater filming and water activities. This increases international promotion to a global audience, serving as a massive and highly effective form of advertising.
“Cozumel has all this and more to consolidate itself as a top-tier film destination, not only for its natural beauty and safety, but also for the capacity of this tourism segment to revitalize the local economy and project its charm to the entire world,” Farah Ceh stated.
