I would like to do a couple of excursions as well which would take us off the resort but traveling with the resort tour guides. The bad stories you hear about Mexico are true. Heres What You Need to Know. In some cases, he said, your response depends on the situation, and it may be best to cooperate. The cartels and politicians cash in while the regular people barely survive. Taxi drivers then began harassing and threatening Uber drivers. For example, murders in Playa del Carmen are up by 200% this year, and many executions and armed robberies happen in the tourist zone, which is an area of about only 4 square miles. These cruise lines often have comprehensive safety measures, experienced staff, and well-planned itineraries that prioritize passenger security. After reading my article, you should no longer be asking is Mexico safe?. Here's how COVID changed the onboard experience. My kids are normal in the sense they sometimes wander a few yards away from us. I suggest Belize and if you are adventurous ditch the beach and stay in the jungle at Kaana Luxury Resort. We leave for Mexico in 2 weeks, and with the latest on Venezula, should we cancel? Some of the popular cruise ports in Mexico include Cozumel, Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Cabo San Lucas. Thank you for the great information. But, as I said, no one ever asked or looked. I also took my medication with me and not one person suggested it was something illegal or even looked my way. I think about 30% of the comments are slandering Mexico and supporting Trump. You can reach her at kwong@usatoday.com. My brother was murdered there 11/9/18. Keep in mind that bad things can anywhere not just in Mexico but I am sure there are crimes taking place right in your very own neighborhood. No other country on the planet including Spain has done more damage to Mexico than the USA. Considering a cruise to Mexico? The states of Guerrero and Sinaola (among others) are under a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory. On Monday, taxi drivers blocked Kukulcn Boulevard one of the main roads to the hotel district in Cancun forcing some passengers to walk or even get police escorts. Attempting to fly with cannabis, even if its legal at your destination, can still be illegal under transportation regulations or laws in certain jurisdictions. You must work for the Trump administration if you believe Mexico is dangerous. When was the last time you visited Mexico? Are you concerned about traveling to Italy? I hadnt visited in 10 years because of the travel advisories and I regret it deeply. Sir, that is called privilege. While Mexico has many beautiful and safe tourist destinations, there are some areas that travelers should avoid due to high levels of crime and violence. It is better to be overcautious and avoid high-risk areas. According to the State Department, if something happens, you'll probably be relying on local resources. Taxis recommended by the cruise line or reputable companies are typically reliable choices. And the State Department has warned tourists to steer clear of six states, including the state of Tamaulipas, where the recent kidnapping occurred and to exercise increased precautions in other popular destinations like Playa del Carmen, Cancn, Tulum and Mexico City. Hey Bruce- I suggest getting a written note from your doctor and do not pull the label off. Will be staying at a resort. If you do decide you are going to take your chances and fly to Mexico with edibles make sure you pack your stash correctly so you will not get caught. I have traveled and lived worldwide and visited Mexico several times since the 60s and felt extremely nervous every time I ventured south of de border ! As for safety while traveling, its recommended to use common sense precautions such as keeping valuable belongings secure, being aware of your surroundings, and using reputable transportation options. A spasm of violence at the end of 2021 and early 2022 rattled the tourist industry along the Riviera Maya, the 80-mile strip of Caribbean resorts south of Cancn. The agency said her . That's how I view beingin and around some of these higher-risk cities in Mexico, the border cities.". I will be traveling to Acapulco in July with my husband and four kids ages 12,10,3,2. Why would you want to just stay at your resort? Ive done some research and I am not finding anything credible that states so. Ive visited Mexico plenty of times and my husband and I have never experienced anything but sweet and kind people. Furthermore, tourists should steer clear of displaying signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry and exercise extreme caution at banks and ATMs but this should be the norm whenever you are traveling out of the country. I will suggest not driving at night. Use first-class bus companies these bus companies take toll roads that have security checks on passengers as they board. Many are wondering what's next for the popular tourist destination, and whether Mexico is safe fortravel. Our Police rarely catch criminals. Hurricanes are less common on the West Coast, but tropical storms are no stranger to the Mexican Riviera during the May 15 to November 30 storm season, with several in past years having made landfall on Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas. Two were. Theyll have the most current read on the situation. Tomiko, Mexico in these areas are now up to a Level 4. I have to imagine dirty cops would take us to a dirty police station. Predictably, Carnival says yes. : another excellent hotel booking website for finding fabulous Athens accommodation. There currently is no travel warning issued for Mexico for residents coming from the UK. This includes cruise port and shore excursion destinations like Cozumel, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cabo San Lucas, Costa Maya, the ruins of Chichen Itza, and Salina Cruz. Mexicos ongoing struggles with these types of crimes should not be overlooked, though a deeper dive shows many commonly-visited cruise ports are not affected by these warnings. Of course. Let's ignite your wanderlust, tantalize your taste buds, and raise a glass to the incredible journey ahead! A heavy-handed response could likely mean "a wave of violence where it gets worse before it gets better," said Michael Ballard, director of intelligence at Global Guardian, a firm that specializes in travel security. The cheap Mexico vacation doesnt exist in places like Cancun, Cabo, and Riviera Maya. While safety concerns may arise when planning such a trip, its essential to note that Mexico is a popular cruise destination enjoyed by millions of tourists each year. For years I wouldnt travel to Mexico because the U.S. media painted this horrific picture of Mexico and I was so afraid of traveling to Mexico. In 2020 Mexico had the highest number of homicides in the countrys history, there were 17,439murders, a 1.7% increase but most of the deaths in Mexico are due to fighting between cartels and if you are not part of the cartel then you are probably safe. Avoid back roads and nighttime driving and hire taxis and driving services through the hotel where youre staying. I dont think our little minute amounts of meds concern them. New Orleans is still an amazing place to visit and the Media is right to champion this inspirational city. The Lido Deck with. Thats the equivalent of his support base. Rome is notorious for criminal activity but it does not receive the same fear as other destinations. you could live in the safest neighborhood and you should still lock your doors at night and its no different when traveling. They want to go fishing. Travelers from all around the world are drawn to this Latin American getaway for its beautiful beaches, rich culture and history, delicious food and drinks, and favorable currency exchange rates. if your family loves seafood you can have lobster prepared every way imaginable! Several tourist destinations, like Mexico City, Sayulita and Cancun,now have warnings related to cartel-related crime. Back in 2012, Royal Caribbean and NCL cruise ships, which sailed to Mexico, repositioned from Los Angeles because of fears of violence in Mexico. If you bring it across international borders please know this is considered international drug trafficking and you will have your items either confiscated or depending on the amount, end up in jail. Stay the heck away from here! I am afraid of hanging out. Yes, it is safe to either rent a car or hire a driver, We are taking A cruise that is stopping in Cozumel and Progreso , We are traveling with 4blonde headed, blue eyes children 11,9,8,6 we have booked excursions, I am terrified after some of the things I have read on the internet (my own fault). It is absolutely gorgeous and I felt very safe at all times. One of the Americans was scheduled for cosmetic surgery. Any advice other than dont do illegal things which are we dont want plan on? The local people were incredibly welcoming and friendly, always ready to share their culture and traditions. Life // Travel What it's like to cruise with Carnival Cruise Line along the Mexican Riviera right now By Lori A May, Special to the SeattlePI Updated Oct 6, 2021 1:51 p.m. Travel Warnings & Safety [Updated Nov 2021], Is Johannesburg Safe for American Tourists - Safety Tips & Concerns, The 40 Cannons Costa Maya: A World-Famous Snorkeling Destination DesertDivers, Is Cancun Secure for American Vacationer in 2022 [Updated Sept 2022] alafaqtravel, The Resort Also Offers A Variety Of Activities For Children And Families PrestwickCountryClub.net, Is Costa Rica Safe for Tourists? Which do you fell is safer, we have kids ages 12, 12, 15. If you are stopped for a traffic violation in Mexico. I dont do anything here that I would not do in Toronto. I think you will be just fine. Have you been robbed or kidnapped in Mexico? The State Department cant issue a Travel Warning, because it is not a foreign country. Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: While in your room, be cautious of any signs of potential carbon monoxide leaks. I am so tired of the garbage lying prejudiced stupid Mass corporate media from the United States always dilapidating Mexico with no empirical and factual evidence whatsoever just bias and prejudice. Thats why, so why the superior tone? Sinaloa state due to crime and kidnapping Tamaulipas state due to crime and kidnapping. She also advised people to have situational awareness. Its amazing what people are capable of telling themselves to put their mind at ease. I stay out of areas that are dangerous. Everything else you here is pure BS ! It helps a bit of the local economy. Baja California Sur is home to Cabo San Lucas, San Jose del Cabo and La Paz. Mexico is killing american tourists left and right and very few media publications talk about it. i got arrested at 9am. Absolutely they are. I just stumbled on your site, and like you, I plan to travel this world before my final exit. Afterall, are we not trying to keep them from coming to our country, illegally? Trust people who are invested long-term in making your stay a good one, like booking agents and hotel staff, and be on your guard with one-off opportunities. amzn_assoc_search_bar = "true";
I would like to publicly challenge this author to any debate in regard to the dangers of mexico and how insane it is to travel there. I am all about saying money so I dont use the mini because of the mark up not because Im afraid something will happen. : One of the most popular methods to extort money and protect cartel turf is through carjacks or roadblock ambushes. Staying at the resort and not leaving was the only time we felt safe and were able to relax in many trips to Mexico. Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico? You will also be told what you did wrong. Traveling by day and on deluxe or 1st-class buses, which use toll highways where possible, minimizes this risk. Is this a place we need to clutch on tight to the little ones in broad daylight? Stay away from unlit or unfamiliar places, and avoid displaying signs of wealth or carrying excessive amounts of cash or valuables. Officials later said that two of the group were found dead at a rural location alongside the other two, who had survived. Remember the old saying you can catch more flies with honey than vinegar? Do your own survey. Mexico is a beautiful country and worth the effort if you plan sensibly. These areas have not seen the same levels of drug-related violence and crime experienced elsewhere in Mexico.". I am worried because i have 2 kids and one is 7 months old baby with me. They need tourism dollars and I have never had an issue in my travels to Mexico. Just as no one should be afraid to visit the States because of our mass shootings, you should not be afraid to visit Mexico, providing you stay in the recommended areas and do no look for trouble. That is why it is dangerous. I am sure if you were pulled over they had a reason because the police does not pull people over no reason at all. I would not put my life in danger and travel to a country where I could be killed. That is on par with Albuquerque. Most locals arent out to rob you or get over on you but you should always be careful and aware of your surroundings so you can avoid falling prey and becoming a scammers next lucrative customer. Meanwhile, questions arose on how the Mexican and U.S. governments will respond, which could affect regular travel to Mexico. Is it safe for tourists? 1. Use the same common sense you do anywhere else you will be fine. Over a year has passed since Top Gun: Maverick, Cruise's last movie, flew to a near $1.5 billion box office haul.Not only was Top Gun 2 one of . Its marquee port, Mazatlan, is not, however -- so long as visitors stay in the Zona Dorada (the Golden Zone), or the city's Centro Historico, where most cruise tourists will stay anyhow. The State Department updated the Travel Advisory for Mexicoon Oct. 5, which is done regularly. If you would like to donate toPassports and Grub click here! I would dare you to hitchhike across Mexico to prove your point, but you would be dead. I have never done drugs and I have a PhD. Americans should reconsider travel to China due to the risk of wrongful detention, the US State Department warned in an updated travel advisory issued Friday.. If you do witness or encounter cartel crime such as an express kidnapping or carjacking, Ballard said, you shouldreport the case to the U.S. Embassy or to the local equivalent of 911. I agree, after this crap statement they lost all credibility. Respect Local Laws and Customs: Respect for local laws and customs is crucial when visiting any foreign country, including Mexico. But cruising fans say: That's ancient history. Now I see all this debate about Cancun and its a little scary. "However, it is well documented that some areas have a higher presence of violence. While many people worry about cartels or criminals preying on tourists in areas like Cancun or Mazatlan, there are much more common risks for travelers like buying drugs in a foreign country. I also hope to do an excursion or two but want to make sure I am keeping us safe. Please keep up the wonderful blog! 2023 USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network, LLC. The short answer is: Taking a cruise to Mexico is one of the safer ways to visit. I know the terror it feels to know someone tried to kidnap your nephews. Thank you so much for commenting! Unfortunately, passengers have been caught in the middle. Dont compare at all staying in the golden zones of the Mayan coast (where most Mexican cant even dream of even going) with going to the real Mexico. The State Department puts out the status as they see fit and its up to the rest of us to research and determine the real seriousness of the situation. Street crime is still a problem almost everywhere, especially in bigger cities and crowded spaces. Norwegian Cruise Line has canceled all sailings through March 31. Congratulations on your trip to Mexico. There are areas the Mexican nationals will tell you to avoid and do so. In recent resort incidents, carbon monoxide poisoning deaths have been linked to faulty ventilation systems or poorly maintained equipment. Although a travel advisory is in effect, its important to remember that tourists flock to Mexico every year without incident. When Driving, Stick to Main Roads, and Daytime Travel. That is about the same as Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. In spite of your loss, you are misinformed about Mexico. While there are concerns about safety in certain areas, I found that by taking proper precautions and being mindful of my surroundings, I felt secure throughout my trip. Make sure you put all of your medication in the safe along with any other valuables. My husband and I plan to travel next month we would like to see the ruins in Tulum. you sound as if you have been watching too Fox News and the shit hole country theme. Remember, Congress makes the laws. Seek Professional Inspections: For added peace of mind, consider hiring a qualified inspector to assess the ventilation and gas-burning appliances in your resort room before your stay. Those that sail in U.S. waters . Yet most cruisers wouldn't think twice about booking a cruise calling on Copenhagen or Hamburg. How To Check Its COVID-19 Status. In Nayarit, many tourists visit the surf town Sayulita. Dont get scammed: If someone is asking you for your personal information will are likely scamming. These are the primary areas the U.S. government says not to travel to right now, in alphabetical order: Jump to Place: Afghanistan. Kidnapping and carjacking are a risk in certain regions and many businesses that cater to tourists operate under extortion threats. Jan. 6, 2022 On the fourth day of a seven-day Mexican Riviera cruise, Jesse Suphan and other passengers onboard the Carnival Cruise Line's Panorama were denied entry at the port of Puerto. The State Department has several resources to help keep travelers safe. On the flip side, ongoing issues with crime has led the State Department to place the states of Baja California, Jalisco and Nayarit under a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory. Oh btw President Trump and American main steam media arent on the same team if you havent bothered to watch the news or anything else. I dare you hitchhike through Chicago to Memphis to prove your point. I got robbed by the POLICE in Roma Norte in Mexico City. Do you know who else had 111 murders in one year? Remember, to check the Mexico Travel Advisory before you leave for Mexico. Traveling anywhere requires a little bit of safety precaution. But recent incidentsmay have some people wondering if they should reconsider their travel plans. 1) Dont compare staying in Mexico for 2 weeks versus living here a whole life. 2) Organized crime dont like to mess with tourists, because the foreing country will demand a clarification and Mexican government, who is involved with the crime), will need to do something, and thats like shooting to oneselfs foot. A country or destination that sounds frightening at first can be no more so than your own hometown. After an optimistic stretch in travel to end 2021, rising cases and this new variant to start 2022 had us wondering whether it was safe to cruise right . Mexico vs. Costa Rica For Your Next Vacation. Most of the violence, however, is drug related. 4,800 pesos and jail until we saw a judge or we could pay them 3,000 pesos right there to take care of it. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. .css-18jw8gc{-webkit-appearance:none;-moz-appearance:none;-ms-appearance:none;appearance:none;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-box-pack:center;-ms-flex-pack:center;-webkit-justify-content:center;justify-content:center;-webkit-user-select:none;-moz-user-select:none;-ms-user-select:none;user-select:none;position:relative;white-space:nowrap;vertical-align:middle;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;line-height:1.2;border-radius:var(--chakra-radii-md);transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-normal);height:auto;min-width:var(--chakra-sizes-10);font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-md);background:none;border:0;color:black;display:inline;margin:0px;padding:0!important;font-family:var(--chakra-fonts-Roboto);font-weight:500;padding-top:0.625rem;padding-bottom:0.625rem;-webkit-padding-start:1rem;padding-inline-start:1rem;-webkit-padding-end:1rem;padding-inline-end:1rem;}.css-18jw8gc:focus-visible,.css-18jw8gc[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);}.css-18jw8gc:disabled,.css-18jw8gc[disabled],.css-18jw8gc[aria-disabled=true],.css-18jw8gc[data-disabled]{opacity:0.4;cursor:not-allowed;box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-none);}.css-18jw8gc:active,.css-18jw8gc[data-active]{border:var(--chakra-borders-none);background:none;}.css-18jw8gc:hover,.css-18jw8gc[data-hover]{border:var(--chakra-borders-none);background:none;}.css-18jw8gc:focus,.css-18jw8gc[data-focus]{border:var(--chakra-borders-none);outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-none);}Cookie Consent, Is it Safe to Travel to Mexico? If you are staying at all-inclusive resort all if not most of the activities should be included. Kathleen Wong USA TODAY 0:00 1:02 The high-profile case of four U.S. citizens being kidnapped in Mexico sent shock waves through the nation. I bring race into the post because it matters. As an avid traveler who loves my family I would take my daughter to Mexico over Rome in a heartbeat. Glad you are safe, My boyfriend and I traveled to Cancun in February of 2018 and had something put in our drinks MY boyfriend ended up in the hospital with a large bill to pay and thought I was never going to get out Now afraid to travel there How do you get the feeling back to travel I have been going to Cancun since 1997 and just loved it. We did not live in a gated neighborhood. Some people predicted the industry would never recover. While Cabo is relatively safe some areas of Mexico pose an increased risk to travelers, so before you startpacking for Mexico keep reading to make sure Mexico is safe. amzn_assoc_title = "My Amazon Picks";
The key is to remain calm and accept your mistake and when it is inevitable that they take you to jail then subtly offer a bribe, it is like a negotiation, start with a low amount and they will go up to agree on an amount. And in two popular destinations for foreign tourists Los Cabos, at the tip of the Baja California peninsula, and the Caribbean coast local and state officials have recently sought help from the United States to take on organized crime that threatened to drive off tourists. Kidnappings are far and few. Its also important to be mindful of the weather and choose breathable fabrics suitable for the climate. While many people worry about cartels or criminals preying on tourists in areas like Cancun or Mazatlan, there are much more common risks for travelers like buying drugs in a foreign country. We are so quick to point the finger at other countries but not at ourselves. you must have misunderstood my article because I am quite clear that my experience with Mexico has been nothing but safe and wonderful. The authorities cracked down hard, however, and dismissed hundreds of officers, including some top officials. Although this warning appears to be focused around gang and drug violence, this August advisory included Cancun and Los Cabos, two of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. You should stick to writing about stuff you actually know about. I stayed two nights at an air bnb and we were perfectly fine. I have been to Cabo but never Cancun and want to visit Tulum. On the coach the police checked my documents and saw my form had expired, they told me they had to arrest me. I have explored off of the resort and I have never experienced anything but love from the people of Mexico. Tthey are there for a reason, and a lot of us are fighting to make cities safer and more sustainable," Karel said. Do you think this is safe? Read update How To Stay Safe In Cozumel, Mexico I am traveling to LeBlanc in March 2020 and The Grand Moon Palace in Summer 2021. Thousands of miles north of where it is. While the motives in the attack remain unclear, the Americans had very bad luck, Mr. Guerrero said, because they likely stumbled into a battle between the two gangs. 1:03 In the wake of the recent killing of two U.S. citizens in Mexico, travelers may be wondering if it's safe to go there for spring break or other vacations. Once an American tourist is murdered travelers begin questioning whether Mexico is safe to visit. The city Council and Mayor will not address this issue of grassroots corruption. Killings are daily by local Meth users, which is widely distributed to people in Baja. This can leave cruisers wondering: Is Mexico dangerous? Thanks so much Lorenzo! I travel to Mexico solo and with my husband and nothing has ever happened to me. Latin countries are corrupt from the top down that is the main problem, cops are on the take everywhere their morale is LOW ! They couldnt wait to say Trump is racist towards black and brown people. As a cruise passenger on a shore excursion, youll almost always be surrounded by a group and led by an English-speaking guide, which can be a lifesaver in a pinch or emergency. Or Evansville, Indiana. Getting caught in cartel activity is less common somewhere like Cancun than it is inColima. Hi-Webare traveling to Cancun to stay at GR SOLARIS for and all inclusive visit . The Mexican media of course attempts to downplay these incidents. They threatened to kill my wife and baby if I didnt pay. yes, but so does Memphis and it doesnt stop me from going home and it shouldnt stop you from traveling solo to Mexico. Taylor Meyer. Get it? A new color-coded system adds new information to cruise safety. Stay away form that shit hole. I am sure they know all of the rules about not taking drinks from strangers and make sure they have safe words. The cartels focus of violence is in the countryside; Puerto Vallarta and the beaches to its north, including the exclusive peninsula of Punta Mita and the surfers hangout of Sayulita, are all booming and, despite drug sales, the cartels control seems to limit open conflict. ", Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter based in Hawaii. If you use common sense and take reasonable safety precautions, you should have no hesitancy in visiting Mexico because Mexico is safe. Officials said the abduction was probably a case of mistaken identity,but the FBI is investigating further. Because the United States is the only country selling all kinds of weapons to Mexico theres no other country including Mexico itself providing weapons to those disgusting cartels. Your email address will not be published. BEWARE!!! It will be your loss because this woman has provided a most thorough examination of travel in Mexico. Stay safe while traveling: Here are 17 CIA tips, advice to think like a spy on vacation Staying safe: US tourists warned about popular Mexico spots plagued by drug cartel intimidation,. You should also not drink tap water in Tulum.
The State Department recognizes that most of the crime in this region seems to be tied to criminal organizations turf battles between criminal groups which have resulted in an uptake of violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens.. So, remember to enlist these general rules during your vacation and you will not have to ask is it safe to travel to Mexico?. There is far more crime in countries where the majority of citizens are black or brown. These excursions are often vetted for safety, and the cruise line assumes responsibility for the passengers well-being during these organized tours. Ixtapa is a place surrounded by a mountain range that descends to the sea and frames this wonderful town. I leave it to you to continue to give great facts and tips on danger and safety, as it is greatly needed and well received by those seeking the information.

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