 It comes as no surprise to many, but Mexico has once again been named as one of the best international travel destinations in the world by Carlson Wagonlit Travel Associates.
According to the 2006 Travel Trends Survey conducted by Carlson Wagonlit Travel Associates, Mexico continues to dominate the list of top 10 international destinations with five vacation options. The Riviera Maya came in at number two, Cancun scored the third spot, Puerto Vallarta came in at number five, Mexico cruises made number nine on the list and Cabo San Lucas ranked 10. Of special interest is Puerto Vallarta, which made an exciting leap into the top five from this 12th place position in 2005.
 Mexico boasts hundreds of beaches, many consistently ranked among the best in the world. With 6,000 miles of its 9,000-mile coast as beaches, Mexico offers everything from bustling mega-resorts to tranquil ecological hideaways. Add Mexico’s well-earned reputation for hospitality and value, and it’s easy to see why Mexico and its beaches are a favorite destination among tourists. The increased number of travelers relaxing on beaches in Mexico has led to an increased investment in nearby facilities for fun, relaxation, sports and adventure.
Both soft and hard adventure travel destinations and activities ranked well last year as a primary reason for increased travel interest in Central America.
Mexico sports over 1,000 varieties of birds, for example, twice as many species than found in the United States and canada combined, making Mexico the new birders paradise. Other wildlife adventures ranked well, including rafting down the Usumacinta river in the Lacadon region of Chiapas.
In addition to the pristine beaches of Mexico, the ancient ruins of such civilizations as the Olmec, Maya, Aztec, Zapotec, and others, ranked as a primary reason to vacation in Mexico.
 While U.S. and Canadian travelers represent the lions share of tourist trafiic to Mexico, Central America has also gained strength from European and Japanese travelers as well. The Yucatan Pennisula ranked as the primary destinations for off-continent visitors.
Also ranking high among international travelers is Mexico's cultural diversity. From Spanish colonial cities to ancient sites like Teotihuacan, Palenque and Monte Alban, visitors are looking to uncover Mexico's past and discover the uinique melding of cultures.
Increased tourism efforts by the Mexican federal government, combined with aggressive tourism campaigns launched by popular destinations throughout the country, are credited with keeping Mexico as the all-around favorite travel destination among international visitors.
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