Acapulco, Mexico - It hasn't been easy for the residents of Acapulco over the last several years. Tourism, a major artery for the city's business development, has been almost completely severed in recent years as violence escalated and warring cartels held the iconic beach destination captive.

Known for sparkling beaches and glamorous hotels in its tourism heyday, the city watched as international visitors disappeared from its shores. But Acapulco is trying hard to make a comeback, both with international guests and domestic visitors and, after a recent holiday weekend, it seems that these efforts may be having some success.

Recently, during Mexico's Revolution Day holiday weekend Nov. 14-16, the state of Guerrero, where Acapulco is located, reached a hotel occupancy of more than 70 percent, generating more than $361 million in revenue, said secretary of tourism development, Ernesto Rodriguez Escalona. Rodriguez also announced that on Nov. 14, Acapulco achieved an occupancy rate of 90 percent, surpassing rates for that same day in 2014 by 24%.

"We are always thrilled to receive tourists from all over the world and are very excited to see such an increase in occupancy numbers during this busy holiday weekend," said Pedro Haces, president of the Acapulco destination marketing office. "With the creation of a new state-of-the-art airport terminal, Acapulco will be prepared to receive an even greater amount of tourists next year."

As a vacation destination, Acapulco is known for its sea, sun and sand. It offers fun for the entire family with beaches ideal for aquatic sports and a city filled with history and glamour.

The San Diego Fort, dating back to the 1600s, is an essential part of Acapulco's architecture and a must-visit landmark. La Quebrada, home of Acapulco's world-famous divers, has become an iconic symbol of the city. Acapulco also has a bustling gastronomic scene that combines Mexican culinary traditions and a diversity of international flavors.

In hopes of further boosting its tourism profile, Acapulco will keep guests busy with a variety of events during the holidays. The Tropico Festival will take place on Dec. 4 - 6 at the Pierre Mundo Imperial Hotel and will feature a three-day festival showcasing live music, delicious food and cocktails as well as local fashion and crafts.

The Ocean Race at the Yacht Club on December 12 will host 21 sailboats that will race across Acapulco Bay.

The Total Beach Acapulco event will take place December 11-13 and will feature yacht, beach and pool parties, and there will be a Fireworks Gala on Dec. 31 that will welcome 2016 with a fireworks show that will light up Santa Lucia Bay.

For more information on visiting Acapulco, check out VisitAcapulco.travel.