Puerto Vallarta is gradually returning to normal following a spike in violence triggered by the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as 'El Mencho', the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). While the tourist destination located on the Jalisco coast has reopened its hotels and restaurants, the atmosphere remains subdued as residents and business owners avoid discussing the recent violent events, which they simply refer to as 'what happened'. The incident has notably impacted tourist inflow during the critical winter season, which extends from October to late March, resulting in significant losses for local businesses.

The violent events that unfolded on February 22 led to a decline in visitor numbers, with hotel occupancy plummeting to around 45%, a stark contrast to the usual levels, which typically double that percentage on weekends in March. Many local stakeholders, including hotel managers and business owners, report that international travelers have been deterred by the violence, leading to a contraction in what is usually a bustling tourist season. The situation underscores a pressing concern for Puerto Vallarta, as the area relies heavily on tourism for economic stability.

In the wake of these events, the local economy faces challenges, but efforts are underway to reassure potential visitors. Authorities and business leaders are focusing on initiatives to promote the safety and allure of Puerto Vallarta, aiming to restore confidence among tourists and stimulate a return to pre-violence levels of guest occupancy. The recovery process will be crucial for both the present well-being of the local community and the longer-term economic viability of the region, which has been celebrated for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, but which now grapples with the shadows of cartel violence.