Mexico – October 10, 2025 – From September 29 to October 3, a prominent Visit Anaheim delegation completed a high-impact trade mission to Mexico, aimed at deepening ties with one of its most vital international markets.

The delegation was led by Mike Waterman, President and CEO of Visit Anaheim, and Ashleigh Aitken, mayor of Anaheim, accompanied by members of Visit Anaheim’s executive team and strategic partners from renowned tourism and hospitality organizations, including Cross Border Xpress (CBX), the Disneyland® Resort, Grand Legacy At The Park, Hotel Lulu, South Coast Plaza, JW Marriott Anaheim Resort, The Westin Anaheim Resort, and Anaheim Aerolink.

During their visit, Mayor Aitken and CEO Waterman shared updates on upcoming projects and developments, including Anaheim’s role in welcoming visitors traveling to Southern California for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and encouraging fans to extend their stay in the destination. They also highlighted Anaheim’s role as a host city for indoor volleyball during the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, along with new initiatives designed to further elevate the city’s entertainment, sports, and family travel offerings. Both emphasized the importance of the Mexican market, one of Anaheim’s leading sources of international visitors.

“Strengthening our connection with Mexico is essential, as it continues to be one of Anaheim’s most valued visitor markets,” said Mike Waterman, President & CEO, Visit Anaheim. “This mission allowed us to share Anaheim’s exciting future, from the Olympics to major new developments, and reaffirm our commitment to welcoming Mexican travelers with world-class hospitality.”

The delegation also discussed the possibility of establishing a sister city partnership between Anaheim and Guadalajara, an initiative that would strengthen cultural, tourism, and economic ties between the two communities.

“Anaheim’s ties to Mexico go beyond just being neighbors; we are family,” Mayor Aitken said. “We have a common history and shared culture with Anaheim proudly being home to so many of Mexican heritage. Each year, we are honored to welcome millions of Mexican visitors who come for all our city has to offer in trips that are as much family reunions as tourism. That is an enduring bond that is stronger than ever. And we’re working to strengthen that by forging a sister city relationship with our friends in Guadalajara, a great city deeply connected to Anaheim.”

Throughout the mission, the delegation met with tourism industry leaders, government representatives, and media outlets, presenting Anaheim’s latest attractions and experiences. The visit also included events with travel agents, tour operators, and consumer and trade media, reinforcing Anaheim’s position as one of Southern California’s must-visit destinations.

This trade mission was carried out with the objective of strengthening partnerships and fostering professional development within the tourism industry, while reaffirming that Anaheim is a destination that always welcomes Mexican travelers, whether they visit for family-friendly experiences or to enjoy world-class events, shows, and entertainment.

Regarding air connectivity, there are key direct routes available for Mexican travelers:

  • From Mexico City (MEX) to Los Angeles (LAX), several airlines operate nonstop flights, including Aeroméxico, American Airlines, Volaris, and VivaAerobus.
  • From Monterrey (MTY) and Guadalajara (GDL), there are also direct flights to Los Angeles.
  • A convenient option is to fly into Tijuana, cross directly into San Diego through the Cross Border Xpress (CBX), and rent a car for a short drive to Anaheim.

These direct flights make it easy for Mexican travelers to reach Anaheim, as Los Angeles serves as the main gateway, offering convenient road and transportation connections to the city.