International Tourism

Tourism is perhaps the most valuable opportunity for relations between Sonora and Arizona

International tourism between the states of Sonora and Arizona would have many benefits, both extrinsically and intrinsically. In addition to the economic gains, there are unmeasurable positive externalities that would result.

Among them, closer relations and increased inter-state understanding between the citizens of both states.

And the focus is not just on this interstate exchange between Arizona and Sonora, but on a bigger level it also applies to travelers from other countries who would like to visit the Arizona-Sonora region.

Current travel destinations

Arizonans visit Sonora to enjoy its beach resorts, learn about native cultures, attend events and relax in the rays of the warm Sonoran sun.

Sonorans mainly visit Arizona to shop, traveling as far north as Phoenix to get the best deals, especially during the holiday seasons of Semana Santa (the holy week before Easter) and Christmas.

And while there are Sonorans who venture beyond Arizona’s cities to visit national parks and other tourist attractions, we believe that number could greatly be increased with the right bilingual promotion.

Great potential

There is tremendous potential to increase these international visits on both sides of the border. And add a revenue stream to local communities and states that would far overshadow the economic impact of other cross-border initiatives, like mining.

In addition to having major tourist attractions, both states also have interesting, historic and culturally interesting towns that are currently underserved with respect to international tourism.

Increase bilingual tourism resources

A big part of the void in potential is a lack of bilingual tourism resources.

And while we cannot expect tourism hosts to quickly learn Spanish or English, we can help to level the playing field by presenting key information in a bilingual format. From explaining driving and other travel norms bilingually to introducing those lesser-known destinations, we can make Arizona-Sonora international tourism more viable.

One way that we do this is to partner with local businesses and governments that are target locations for international tourism. And publicize those connections through bilingual Sonora-Arizona travel websites like Explore-Sonora and Arizona Turismo.

Let’s connect

So, if you have a destination that is welcoming to international visitors, please contact us and let’s connect. In addition to providing a free business/government listing, we also offer other opportunities to connect directly with Sonorans and Arizonans.

We look forward to hearing from you!