Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - The 2012 edition of Tianguis Turistico Mexico, which was co-hosted by Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco and Riviera Nayarit in late March, was the most successful ever held in the tourism fair's 37 year history.

The 65 million pesos ($5.1 million USD) that Jalisco and Nayarit invested to host the 2012 event seems to have paid off. With an increase of 24% over last year's registered companies and participating travel professionals, and 2300 business appointments held, the economic overflow to the 2 states is estimated at $140 million pesos, or $11.2 million USD.

Over the 2 and 1/2 day tourism expo, Puerto Vallarta representatives attended 58 business meetings with national and international airlines and tour operators. As a result, Apple Vacations, Travelocity, Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, Transat, Best Day and Signature, among others, will actively participate in a concentrated publicity campaign designed by the Puerto Vallarta and Mexico Tourism Boards to increase the promotion of this popular beach destination throughout North America.

To extend the region's reach in new markets, a special agenda was prepared for buyers from Paris, Beijing, Madrid and Brazil. Business meeting and wedding travel providers were also targeted through presentations that brought the city's world-class services and infrastructure to light. Some of the airlines and travel providers that participated in these programs were Viajes El Corte Inglés, Iberia, Orizonia, and Viajes Barceló.

In addition to the travel and tourism professionals from more than 30 countries who participated in this year's Mexico tourism expo, (an increase of 30% over last year) Puerto Vallarta's International Convention Center welcomed more than 1000 visitors, including members of the world-wide press.

Vallarta took full advantage of the world-wide attention by hosting events that showcased all of the amenities that the Banderas Bay region offers. Wining and dining gave visitors 'A Taste of Nayarit,' as well as special editions of Vallarta Wine Fest and Restaurant Week; golf tournaments offered the opportunity to play on championship courses; and live entertainment, including concerts, dance performances, and spectacular firework displays, offered a glimpse of Mexico's rich culture.

The 2011-2012 tourist season had already shown an increase in numbers before the tourism expo was held here. The undeniable success of this year's Tianguis Turístico is sure to boost the number of people who plan to visit Puerto Vallarta in years to come.