Taking the Pulse of the Latin America, Caribbean Region

As part of my role, I travel extensively throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, meeting with operators, developers, suppliers, and creative leaders who are shaping the future of our attractions industry. These conversations, combined with firsthand observation, reaffirm a powerful reality: our region is not simply following global trends—it is reinterpreting them through its own identity, creativity, and resilience.

One of the most inspiring trends I continue to observe is the originality of our industry in the region. Attractions are increasingly designed to celebrate local cultures, traditions, and stories, while seamlessly integrating global trends. These “glocal” ideas—global in inspiration and local in execution—are creating authentic experiences that resonate deeply with guests and position Latin America and the Caribbean as a source of innovation rather than imitation.

Innovation continues to be a defining force, extending far beyond rides or digital tools. 

It is evident in operational efficiencies, talent development, guest experience design, and the creation of new business models inspired in local culture. Innovation today is about mindset—being open to learning, adapting, and finding inspiration beyond our own industry.

These trends have directly shaped IAAPA Latin America and Caribbean’s event strategy for 2026. One example of this is the IAAPA Summit: Latin America, Caribbean 2026, which for the first time, takes place at sea. This unique setting reflects our commitment to expanding perspectives and embracing new ways of learning from innovative and featured attractions. This commitment will continue throughout the year with educational roadshows, 360 training courses for middle management and an FEC Summit.

Accessibility and collaboration remain at the core of our approach. The use of AI-powered translation is key in making knowledge and events accessible to all our members, facilitating communication and learning across languages. In addition, collaborative learning will continue as a fresh and dynamic way to create meaningful solutions and connections to move businesses forward.

An essential pillar for the region’s future is our regional committees, formed by diverse experts who volunteer to help guide strategic vision, address specific segments, and deliver relevant products benefiting our industry. Following our strategic priorities in 2025, we created two more committees, dedicated to sustainability and FECs; each contributes to the development of customized products and services for the region.

With their support, we developed a comprehensive calendar of educational and networking events designed specifically for the needs and opportunities of all our members.

Our goal is to foster a strong, connected, and future-ready attractions industry throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. Stay tuned, there is plenty more to come.