Q & A with Gloria Rosado, Tourism Director of Campeche (Mexico)
Q & A with Gloria Rosado, Tourism Director of Campeche (Mexico)
The Tourism Director of Campeche is twenty eight years old, and the Mayor only thirty two, so we can say that the city of Campeche is full of young and vibrant blood. Tourism Director, Gloria Rosado met us at the the Palacio Municipal, where in the downstairs courtyard the Mayor was delivering a speech to the disabled while upstairs in the Mayors chambers we were interviewing her.
“The first thing we want to know about Campeche´s Carnival is its attraction to domestic and international visitors.”
Gloria Rosado grins fondly speaking of Carnival: “Over the years Campeche’s Carnival has been converted into a tourist attraction because of its 428 year old history, its unique Flower Parade, the only one in Mexico and its duration, approximately three weeks. Our travels through your local market revealed a wide variety of beautiful flowers.
“Yes, and that’s why we Campechanas are accustomed to receiving only the most beautiful flowers. But back to our topic, Corso Kids, unique in Mexico in which children with physical disabilities participate and enjoy the festivities like the rest of us. All floats and costumes are made and decorated by school children, truly a beautiful sight to see. Even the Carnival Queen, a 23-year-old girl, comes disguised as a child.”
When does Carnival officially begin?
We’ve begun! Last Wednesday kicked off the beginning with a spectacular presentation in a local nightclub but the peak days are March 3 through the 9. Also, I want to congratulate Jair Hernandez and Jessy Martinez, who are in charge of all Carnival related activities in town. They emphasized that Campeche acknowledges the importance of those with disabilities, with them having their own coronation.
I understand that Carnival does not take place in the Walled City.
Our Historical Center was declared World Heritage Site 10 years ago so we take special care in maintaining this area and minimizing its usage. With the renovation of inner city streets, facades and historic buildings, the neighborhoods, Autonomous University of Campeche, UAC, barrio of San Roman (known for its Black Christ), become sites where nightly festivals, music and coronations take place. The grandstands and large stage of the Campeche Forum is another important area for the festivities and coronations.
What is the magnificent building next to City Hall?
That’s our Convention Center, huge, well designed and able to accommodate up to seven thousand people. Built overlooking the waterfront, one has a spectacular view of the quaint fishing boats and dramatic Gulf of Mexico. The waterfront runs for miles, well maintained and safe, it’s a haven for walkers, joggers, fishermen, tourists and kids skateboarding.
