Visit Mexico (again). The best yet?

Back in June 2007, Visit Mexico joined the growing ranks of tourism marketing companies in SL. The project focused on archeological site Chichen Itza and was integrated into other activities supporting their nomination for the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Well, the Mexicans are back with the second phase of activity and this could be the best ‘build-driven’ corporate marketing location in Second Life.

It’s taken over three months to construct and has just opened to the public. Here’s part of the press release:

Experience Mexico in Second Life (SL) like never before. Thrill to the exciting zip line ride through the rainforest canopy. Soar over the beautiful Misol Ha Falls and view the ruins of Palenque by hang glider. Marvel at the Olmec heads in La Venta Park. Explore Tulums beaches and ruins by horseback. Shop for beautiful Mexican artifacts in the colorful city of Campeche. Everywhere you look there is something new and exciting to do and see when you Visit Mexico!

The wonders of Quintana Roo, Chiapas, Campeche and Tabasco, the other four states that make up Visit Mexico Second Life, were added on to Chichen Itza, which was inaugurated in 2007 and has been visited by thousands of virtual tourists.

The inclusion of these four states in Second Life, and the opening of the two Sims in which they are located (Visit Mexico 2 and Visit Mexico 3), will enable visitors to become familiar with the major attractions of southeastern Mexico, and enjoy a special tour that goes beyond the imagination.

This is a big build spanning several islands and what’s really impressive is how the space has actually been filled. Visiting the venue, you get a real sense of being immersed into the environment.

Furthermore, it’s not just the focal points of historical landmarks that creates this overall experience (although they are done to a very high quality) but instead it’s the attention to detail of the ‘supporting cast’ – the hidden treasures found by exploring the islands, such as the horse rides, tree rides and parachutes. It all adds to experience.

And encouragingly it’s a popular area, with recent traffic stats over 3k – this venue attracts people and gets them to ‘dwell’ there. An element clearly considered during the development due to the number of social spaces created, some large and some more intimate.

In summary, you need to visit this venue for yourself to understand the dynamics going on – here’s the SLurl. Visit Mexico in SL has set the bar in terms of tourism marketing in virtual worlds – realism, attention to detail and engagement.