Is Sisal a Tourist Paradise or a Local Struggle?

For several weeks, the enchanting town of Sisal has been at the center of a debate regarding the local real estate market, the influx of foreigners interested in property and tourism, housing accessibility, and the preservation of natural areas against population growth. Local residents perceive this issue, garnering support for their cause on social media, from civil organizations, and from their communal lands. They stress that this is not a new problem but one that has been brewing for years. Sisal residents share their experiences of how their town has changed, the challenges they face, and the impact of this so-called "progress" on their lives.

COMMUNAL LAND OWNERS SPEAK UP

Designated as the "Magic Town of Yucatan" during the Covid-19 pandemic in December 2020, Sisal has always been a magical place for its residents, despite its shortcomings. These issues remain unresolved nearly five years after their designation and are now exacerbated by the influx of visitors, new residents, and the gradual introduction of hotels, Airbnb, and other tourist attractions.

SISAL, YUCATAN: A TOURIST HAVEN ON THE SURFACE

The communal commissioner points out that Sisal has been a summer destination for years; locals are accustomed to the arrival of beach house owners. However, the intended tourism "boom" in an area still lacking basic services for native residents is starting to take a toll.

TOURISM THRIVES IN SISAL, WHILE BASIC SERVICES LACK FOR LOCALS

The "Magic Town" designation brought Sisal to the attention of the tourism and real estate sectors. Despite residents' opposition to this title, Sisal was named one of Mexico's 132 Magic Towns in the same year the pandemic brought the world to a standstill.

SISAL RESIDENTS DEMAND HOUSING RIGHTS

The question arises: why do the wealthy always come first, while locals are left behind in less desirable areas? Today, when a local resident wants to move forward, problems arise. If there were normal houses, the value of what they are selling would decrease. This, according to the communal leader, is the root of the dispute.

THE SISAL EJIDO: WHAT'S HAPPENING?

Despite being primarily fishermen and affected by recent changes, the Sisal Ejido has faced similar challenges for years. Therefore, the communal landowners are racing against time to adapt to the "new Sisal", the magical Sisal for tourists. While the communal land has many plans to enter this "era of modernity" and reap the benefits of tourism, the lack of support, resources, and even alleged sabotage have proved to be significant obstacles.