Mexico`s ranking among the world`s countries in international tourism arrivals increased from eight to seven last month according to World Tourism Organization figures, Tourism Sevretary Rodolfo Elizondo said. Approximately 21.9 million international guests arrived to Mexico in 2005.

Tourism providers are rushing to meet the increasing demand for service. For example, there are currently 23 new flights to Mexico from the United States, and Canadians can count on an additional three flights to Mexico.

More and more leisure and business travelers are discovering the many benefits of a Mexican vacation. Our country not only offers visitors beautiful beaches, an almost endless array of cultural and many exciting adventure tourism options, but Mexico does it all while providing tourists with great value and gracious service, said Elizondo.

Sectur reports that Mexico`s tourism industry was responsible for generating 1.9 million direct jobs in 2005, up 3 percent over 2004 numbers. With the tourism sector so favorably impacting the country and its people, Mexico invests considerable time and effort in developing it.

The Mexican government has a comprehensive, long-term tourism plan in place to guide its efforts through 2025. The plan`s goal is to consistently increase both the number of international visitors and the amount of tourism revenue.