Drums and chanting of a regional Mexican Concheros—a celebration in dance—opened IAAPA Latin America Summit at the in Cancun on Monday.
“We are excited to welcome our largest group ever to Cancun,” says Paulina Reyes, vice president, IAAPA Latin American, Caribbean. “IAAPA Latin America Trade Summit is the place to network, learn, and grow businesses and careers.”
More than 300 attendees are taking part in the sold-out event that started on Monday and runs through Thursday, April 24. Jim Pattison Jr., IAAPA 2023 Chairman of the Board, and Mara Lezama Espinosa, governor of Quintana Roo, the Mexican state on the Yucatán Peninsula, took to the stage during the opening ceremony event.
“We are happy to welcome IAAPA to Cancun and we hope attendees can see the opportunity here to make something—whatever you want—here in Quintana Roo,” Lezama Espinosa tells IAAPA News.
According to a recent IAAPA report, the Latin America region is expected to see an increase in attendance of 18% in 2023, with a 23% increase in spending by visitors.
IAAPA Latin America Summit features a mix of educational sessions, keynote presentations, attractions tours, plus two days of EDUTours, will provide attendees with valuable networking opportunities. Sessions are presented in both Spanish and English with translation services available.
“It’s always important being around IAAPA,” says Rafael Penna, director of operations at Acqualinda water park in Brazil. “As a member, I can see a huge value for what we invest. IAAPA has been important in my personal career, for my company and my colleagues.”
The backdrop of Cancun will offer attendees the opportunity to learn best practices and gather insight when visiting several attractions. From Sky Wheel Cancun and Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Cancun to Jungala Aqua and the parks of Grupo Xcaret.
“The warm hospitality of Mexico has welcomed IAAPA members from across 27 countries,” says Jakob Wahl, IAAPA president and CEO. “Their participation here in Cancun highlights the importance of the Latin America, Caribbean market.”
Trade Connections exhibits bring three dozen manufactures, suppliers, and service providers to the region where decision makers can learn about innovative new products that can grow their business in the years ahead.
“Great Coasters International (GCI) is open to opportunities to help attractions in Latin America grow. We’re participating in Trade Connections meet decision makers and form new partnerships,” says Joyce Stablewski.
While registration is now closed, those looking to participate should plan for IAAPA Latin America Summit 2024, taking place in Columbia, April 15-18.
