Spring Breakers Warned About Travel to Mexico
As vacationers start planning for beach getaways, the U.S. State Department is asking travelers to exercise increased caution in Mexico, including popular destinations such as Cancun and Cabo. Travelers are urged to reconsider travel to other destinations like LGBTQ+-friendly Puerto Vallarta.
Security expert Jaime Lopez-Aranda told CNN, “It is relatively safe for travelers to head to tourist destinations and major urban centers such as Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey.”
Six more states in Mexico – Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas, Michoacan, Colima, and Guerrero – were added to the State Department’s list of places American travelers should not travel due to an increased risk of crime and kidnapping and a high level of drug cartel violence, according to NBC News.
The new warnings come following the deadly incident involving four Americans mistakenly targeted by cartel gunmen, where two were killed. In another mysterious incident, two sisters and their friend are still missing after they crossed the border two weeks ago from Penitas, Texas into northeast Mexico. Their families suspect they were kidnapped.
With the increase in safety risks for travelers in Mexico, U.S. authorities recommend the following tips if you’re planning a Mexico vacation:
- Stay in a resort for added security.
- Share your mobile phone location with somebody at home.
- Consider getting travel insurance in case of an emergency.
- Sign up for the U.S. State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to keep you connected with the local U.S. Embassy and will keep you updated with the latest advisories.
This heightened awareness before planning a trip to Mexico is a major reason why LGBTQ+ travelers should consider consulting a travel advisor, who can provide updates to ensure your safety when planning a trip or while you’re traveling.
