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Why The Mexican Caribbean Is The Perfect Destination For This Growing Travel Trend

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Medical tourism is booming around the world, and the Mexican Caribbean is poised to become a leading destination for this emerging travel trend.

Encompassing everything from cosmetic surgery to spiritual healing, medical tourism seeks to rejuvenate the body & mind.

a relaxing spa and wellness area in a mexican caribbean resort

With its pristine beaches, excellent variety of healthcare services, and endless assortment of top-rated resorts, the Mexican Caribbean has what it takes to become a leading hub for medical travel.

With that in mind, here’s a quick look at why Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean are projected to soar in popularity with wellness travelers.

a couple getting a massage in a resort near cancun

Growing Number Of Travelers Choosing The Mexican Caribbean To Boost Health

A new study shows that medical tourism is on the rise around the globe, especially in the Mexican Caribbean, where the growing travel trend is expected to soar by over 20% over the next five years.

As the world emerges from the trauma of the COVID-19 pandemic – a period which saw great suffering both mentally & physically – travelers are keen on restoring mental balance and stamina. 

@edencarroway Thanks Dr. Joe 🙏 #drjoedispenza #cancunretreat #meditation #kudaliniawakening ♬ original sound – neyla

Hotels & resorts across the Mexican Caribbean state of Quintana Roo are aware of the skyrocketing demand for more wellness-oriented experiences and have begun offering new programs that target the strengthening travel trend. 

Cancun properties like the Nizuc Resort & Spa are leading the way in offering comprehensive health and wellness services, ranging from rejuvenating spa packages to Mayan-inspired meditative sessions. 

@saymslee My wife & I stayed at the Royalton Chic Cancun All Inclusive Resort in Cancun Mexico for our mini honeymoon! We had to get a massage after the wedding (we were so sorr from the day) and we were super impressed with the hotel’s on-site spa! The Hydrotherapy experience was 10/10 and the massages were an 11/10! We really enjoyed the CBD infused lotion that was used as it aided in the relaxation we desperately needed! #cancunmexico #royaltoncancun #royaltonchiccancun #massagetherapy #couplesmassage #lgbtwedding #lgbtmexico #relaxationtime #theroyalspa #fypシ #honeymoontrip #lesbiancouple #vacationmode #vacayvibes ♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim

But classic medical treatments – including dental care, plastic surgery, and routine surgeries – are also trending with travelers in the Mexican Caribbean. According to Andrés Jurado, the head of the National Commission for Medical Tourism (Coparmex), travelers who primarily flock to the Mexican Caribbean for healthcare are spending $11,500 on average for their stay. 

That number is nearly 10 times more than what the average traveler might spend on a quick getaway, meaning hotels & resorts in the region can benefit massively from offering more wellness services. 

@noelleandmase Jungle spa?? Count me in. 🙋🏽‍♀️ #cancun #travel #spa #viral #mexico #fyp #massage ♬ Aesthetic Girl – Yusei

With medical tourism on the rise, Quintana Roo currently has the capacity to treat some 25,000 patients each year. And as businesses continue to invest in new facilities and technologies, that number could rise significantly over the coming years.

Aside from a growing number of resorts and hotels that come with massive spas and comprehensive wellness programs, more and more private clinics are opening their doors to International travelers.

Private clinics are trending with travelers right now, offering lower rates compared to treatment elsewhere – especially in the United States – without compromising safety and quality. 

@im_chelshorne #CapCut #hydrafacialtreatment #cancunmexico ♬ original sound – Chelsey Horne

Kukulkan Medical Care is just one of the top-rated private clinics in and around Cancun’s hotel zone. Its international team of experienced healthcare professionals provides routine check-ups and prescriptions, among other services. 

According to experts, places like Cancun and Tulum are expected to gain international prominence in the health and wellbeing industry thanks to new high-tech services.

Follow These Tips Before Embarking On A Wellness Journey 

Although medical tourism will skyrocket in the coming years, travelers should plan their wellness getaway carefully to avoid certain risks.

@marisahopeee Food freedom is possible for you, and you deserve it!! #foodfreedom #wellnessretreat #tulumwellness #eatbreakfast #nourishtoflourish ♬ Storytelling – Adriel

While the Mexican Caribbean is currently one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean, scams, corruption, and organized crime remain an issue in parts of the region. That’s why travelers should opt for wellness resorts in places like CancunTulum, or Playa del Carmen, which offer some of the most extensive health and wellness services in the region.

It’s also important to read up on past traveler reviews to ensure the quality and safety of your healthcare provider. When it comes to international travel, travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance.

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