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These Mexican Caribbean Resort Hotspots Are Facing Staff Shortages Amid Record Travel Frenzy

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Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean are heading into what many analysts predict will be the busiest summer on record for the region’s world-leading hospitality industry. 

Aerial shot of Cancun resorts next to a beach

Even though summer is typically quieter than winter, millions of travelers are expected to flock to the Mexican Caribbean over the coming months, and many resorts are struggling to cope with unprecedented demand.

With that in mind, here’s a quick glance at which resort hotspots are reporting staffing issues and how they might impact travelers’ next Mexican Caribbean getaway.

pool worker mexico hotel staff

Isla Mujeres Among Several Resort Areas Dealing With Labor Supply Issues

It’s no secret that the Mexican Caribbean is one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. With year-round sun, pristine beaches, and a warm and inviting culture, it’s easy to see why resort hotspots like Cancun are a magnet for American travelers.

This summer, several Mexican Caribbean resort destinations are dealing with unprecedented staffing issues as travelers flock to the sunny region in droves. One of the most affected destinations is Isla Mujeres, which has seen its popularity skyrocket thanks to its proximity to Cancun and clean beaches.

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Aerial View of Sargassum in Front of a Resort on a Beach in Cancun, Mexico

One of the most popular sun-kissed island destinations in Mexico, Isla Mujeres is home to an array of luxury properties that are in urgent need of more qualified employees. From receptionists to cooks, all-inclusive resorts rely on a large number of staff to keep running smoothly around the clock.

According to local hotel and resort representatives, Isla Mujeres has boosted efforts to hire more personnel, although more needs to be done to meet demand. 

Drone view of the North Beach, Isla Mujeres in Cancun

Fortunately, no major resorts have announced plans to cut down on the quality of customer service, although guests should brace themselves for longer queues during check-in or daily cleaning, among other resort amenities. That said, most travelers can look forward to a hassle-free and unforgettable time on their next Isla Mujeres holiday.

Other parts of the Mexican Caribbean are also struggling to hire enough experienced personnel. According to Raúl Angulo, head of the Southern Hospitality Association of Quintana Roo, places like Bacalar and Mahahual are especially affected by the issue, which may affect service levels across the area’s resorts.

A guest in a large resort room looking out the window

Meanwhile, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum are also seeing their fair share of hiring issues, although to a lower degree than smaller resort hubs. Officials are continuing to take measures to address the issue, but critics say the region’s lackluster salaries and precarious working conditions only worsen the issue.

Cancun’s large resort firms are expected to fare well compared to smaller establishments, as they can access a wider network of employees, helping prevent any major shortcomings. 

Beach, water, and large resorts in Cancun

Hotel and resort organizations across the Mexican Caribbean are working together with officials to launch hiring and training programs, as well as to improve employee wellbeing, which constitutes one of the largest barriers to the Mexican Caribbean’s employee shortage. 

2023 Likely To Be Busiest Year For Travel In The Mexican Caribbean 

The Mexican Caribbean is on track to welcome a record number of travelers this year. While summer is not typically the busiest period for travel, projections show that millions of sun-seeking travelers could flock to the region between May and August.

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With record-shattering arrival figures, travelers can expect crowded beaches and packed resorts in classic destinations like Cancun. For a more laid-back experience, opt for smaller resort towns like Puerto Morelos or Costa Mujeres, which offer much of Cancun’s charm without the drawbacks.

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JM

Saturday 27th of May 2023

Gee, record-high prices, extreme crowds behaving badly on “revenge vacations”, beaches covered in rotting sargassum, and poor service due to staff shortages. What’s not to like?