Manzanillo has scored a coup, hosting the first around-the-world cruise with almost entirely Chinese guests. The seaside town is the only Mexican port being visited by the Costa Atlantica cruise liner, which is on an 86-day, 29-country voyage of the world. Roughly 5,000 Chinese passengers were greeted by mariachi music and traditional dances as they landed.
“Manzanillo was the place they chose to learn about our country and also the first American Pacific port where they berthed,” boasted Colima Tourism Secretary Hector Sandoval Fierros. The visit was great news for Mexico, as penetrating the Asian market has been a key goal for the national tourism industry.