Within the framework of the Tianguis Turístico (Tourism Fair), the State Government, through the Veracruz Ministries of Culture (Secver) and Tourism (Sectur), supported the promotion of community-based tourism, a proposal that places communities, their traditions, and their natural environment at the center of authentic experiences.
During the conference “Community-Based Tourism in the Totonac Region,” held in collaboration with the Ruta Tajín project and the GS Tours agency, the cultural richness of the indigenous communities was highlighted, as well as the importance of community work as a cornerstone for preserving traditions, strengthening collective identity, and generating authentic experiences for national and international visitors.
The presentation was led by Guillermo Salinas Cedillo, president of the Mexican Association of Hotels and Motels of Northern Veracruz, who emphasized that this tourism model contributes to the preservation of the cultural identity of indigenous communities.
She pointed out that by integrating traditional clothing, knowledge, legends, and community experiences passed down through generations, the safeguarding of collective memory and ancestral history is guaranteed.
The head of the Veracruz State Secretariat of Culture (Secver), Xóchitl Molina González, emphasized that Veracruz possesses a unique cultural richness that must be showcased through models that recognize communities as protagonists, while also promoting the preservation of their traditions.
For his part, the Secretary of Tourism, Igor Roji López, highlighted that the Totonac region is an international benchmark and that community-based tourism represents an opportunity to diversify the state’s tourism offerings, generate direct benefits for families, and strengthen local economies.
During the event, attendees enjoyed presentations and tastings of regional cuisine, as well as a vanilla demonstration, considered an ancestral practice of the Totonacapan region.
This sensory experience was led by producer Lizbeth Jiménez, who shared the historical, cultural, and productive value of this emblematic Veracruz ingredient, highlighting it as a bridge between the pre-Hispanic past and current productivity.
The day concluded with a performance of the traditional Huahuas dance, a pre-Hispanic Totonac ritual that honors the sun and agricultural fertility, and reflects the identity, legacy, and spiritual and cultural strength of the indigenous peoples of Totonacapan.
As part of the activities, a raffle was also held for an all-inclusive experience in the region, with the aim of introducing attendees to the authentic experiences this destination offers.
Source: veracruz
