As spring break approaches, visitors might be reconsidering their trips to Mexico followingcartel-related violenceerupted over the weekend in various regions of the country.
The retaliatory violencein a number of 20 states that witnessed the killing ofThe most influential drug kingpin in MexicoOn Sunday, numerous families and college students completed their arrangements for spring break, which typically occurs in March or April.
Safety and travel risk specialists state that visitors are naturally worried, but highlight that potential threats can differ significantly based on their location, the means of transport they use, and the activities they intend to undertake.
Regardless of location or time, journeyingusually breeds uncertainty”there’s always something that can come up,” noted Michael Johnson, president of Ensemble Travel, an organization of travel agencies in the United States and Canada.
The United States and Canada have removed the “shelter in place” alerts they temporarily issued for their citizens in certain areas of western Mexico, such as the cities of Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco state, which was previously associated with the former cartel leader Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho.” Both countries are advising travelers to remain cautious, stay informed about local situations, and check for updates before and while traveling.
The U.S. Department of State advises against traveling to six Mexican states and recommends reconsidering visits to seven additional ones, including Jalisco. Global Affairs Canada suggests that its citizens avoid non-essential travel to 13 states and Lagunas de Zempoala National Park in Morelos.
What to consider
It is crucial to recognize where the greatest risks lie and be aware of the available choices if circumstances shift rapidly, Johnson stated. Instead of deciding yes or no immediately, travelers should “proceed gradually.”
— Official recommendations: Travel advisories from the U.S. State Department and Global Affairs Canada can assist travelers in understanding overall risk levels. Travelers are also advised to keep an eye on local news reports regarding current conditions in the specific areas or regions they intend to visit, Johnson mentioned.
— Mexico’s size is approximately three times that of Texas. Popular tourist spots such as Cancun or Tulum are over 1,200 miles (1,900 kilometers) away from Jalisco, which has experienced recent unrest. Staying in major resorts and tourist areas can make travel arrangements easier and reduce the need for extensive movement upon arrival.
— Flexibility: Travelers need to examine the cancellation rules of airlines, hotels, and tour operators. If they have travel insurance, they should carefully check the details regarding what is and isn’t covered.
— Risk appetite: For those who feel anxious, it might be advisable to cancel the journey. “If you’re not at ease, don’t take a vacation. It’s one thing to arrive, but another if you’re constantly worried throughout,” Johnson mentioned.
A Vancouver resident named Scott Leaf and his wife are set to travel to Mexico in two weeks to mark his 60th birthday, with planned visits to Mexico City, Cancun, and the coastal area of Akumal. Upon hearing about the recent incidents of violence, Leaf mentioned they don’t feel compelled to cancel their journey to a country where they have spent their vacations every year for thirty years.
They are not visiting near Jalisco state, he said, and “we have never, ever felt unsafe in a tourist area in 33 years.”
“Canceling a trip to Cancun is like canceling a visit to Disneyland due to events in Minnesota,” Leaf stated, alluding to the Trump administration’s actions.recent immigration crackdownthere that witnessed two and a half months filled with protests, 4,000 arrests, and two fatal shootings by immigration officers.
Ways tourists can get ready Activities travelers can undertake to get prepared What visitors should do to get ready How guests can prepare themselves Things travelers can do in preparation What individuals traveling should do to prepare Actions that travelers can take to get ready What people who travel can do to prepare Ways that visitors can prepare themselves What those who travel can do to get ready
Rich Davis, a top security consultant with the risk management firm International SOS, states that being prepared can have the most significant impact on travelers who choose to proceed with their journey.
— Create a reserve: Individuals requiring necessary medications should bring sufficient quantities to last beyond the scheduled trip duration, in case of unforeseen changes.
— Sign up with your government: U.S. travelers may join the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, enabling embassies to provide safety alerts and contact travelers during emergencies. Canadians can register via Registration of Canadians Abroad, referred to as ROCA.
— Speak with a travel consultant: Even if a trip has already been arranged, seeking advice from a travel consultant can still be beneficial. Johnson mentioned that consultants might have real-time information, including updates from clients who are currently in the region, and can recommend changes to itineraries. For those who haven’t made a booking yet, he noted that consultants can assist in creating plans that are adaptable and consider the location — and for those who book via a consultant, this relationship can offer an extra level of assistance if circumstances change or issues occur.
On the ground
Upon arrival, some simple routines can assist travelers in exploring a new location with ease, according to specialists.
— Travel in pairs or groups: When possible, going with at least one other person can make navigating an unfamiliar area simpler and more pleasant, while also assisting travelers in remaining alert to their environment.
— Keep someone informed: Share your travel plans and daily schedule with a reliable friend or family member, and stay in touch frequently, Davis suggested.
— Utilize the hotel as a central point: Arranging transportation directly through the hotel or resort’s concierge can provide a sense of reliability, particularly for transfers and tours. Before entering a vehicle, verify the driver’s name or information and the destination. Avoid taking unexpected rides, as Davis advised.
— How to request assistance: Not all countries utilize “911” as their emergency phone number. The State Department hasa listinformation about emergency contacts in various countries, and it suggests that travelers store it on their phones.
