### Dollar Fluctuations Boost Tijuana’s Tourism Sector
Tourism in Tijuana is experiencing a notable boost due to recent fluctuations in the value of the American dollar. According to Juan Coronado Ruiz, the General Director of the Committee of Tourism and Conventions (Cotuco) of Tijuana, these variations have been beneficial for both residents of Southern California and Tijuana natives who work in the United States.
The value of the dollar has been fluctuating between 18.00 and 18.80 pesos in recent weeks. On Monday, it was reported at 18.80 pesos for buying and 18.50 pesos for selling, although the rate can vary depending on the exchange houses in the city. Coronado Ruiz noted that the increase in the dollar’s value makes visitors’ money go further, giving a positive spin to an otherwise criticized depreciation period when the dollar’s value was dropping.
He highlighted that this uptick is particularly advantageous for the tourism and gastronomy sectors, which are hoping to see an increase in sales due to the surge in summer visitors. Higher foot traffic and spending in local supermarkets, especially among larger families, have already been observed as a result of the stronger dollar.
Despite concerns over coastal pollution, Tijuana’s beaches have seen a significant influx of visitors in recent weeks. “Visitors are still coming to the beaches even though the water isn’t safe due to contamination. We’ve seen plenty of people along the Malecon and in local restaurants,” noted Coronado Ruiz.
The planned beautification of the Malecon is expected to further increase tourist traffic, benefiting local businesses substantially. This area has always been popular for leisurely walks, family outings, and pet strolls, and enhanced aesthetics are likely to attract even more visitors.
### Additional Developments in Tijuana Tourism
**Healthcare Tourism on the Rise**
Separately, Tijuana and Baja California continue to experience growth in healthcare tourism. The region receives around 3.5 million healthcare tourists annually, many of whom are drawn by the affordability and quality of medical and dental services.
**Impact of U.S. Economic Factors**
Economic conditions in the United States also play a significant role in Tijuana’s economy. Anticipated recessions and political changes, such as the upcoming U.S. elections, may impact local industries differently. For instance, the maquiladora sector has been affected by the appreciation of the peso relative to the dollar. Additionally, investments are currently on hold pending the outcome of the elections, reflecting the interconnected nature of the two economies.
**Education Opportunities Expand**
For students, the educational landscape in Tijuana is also showing promise. The Universidad Autónoma de Baja California (UABC) is welcoming 5,581 new students to its Tijuana campus this school year, out of a total 12,521 new entrants across the state, indicating strong demand for higher education in the region.
**Community Activities and Initiatives**
Cultural and recreational activities continue to thrive as well. The local community can look forward to free weekly movies at Tijuana’s Cine Bujazán in the Trama Café, ensuring accessible entertainment for all residents.
The municipal transition team in Tijuana is also making strides, meeting daily to ensure a smooth changeover, and the state maintains its status as a major exporter of medical devices to the United States, with a predominant number of companies based in Tijuana.
The positive ripple effect of the dollar’s fluctuations is just one of many developments showcasing the dynamic and interconnected growth of Tijuana’s economy and community.