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Mexico is so extremely popular among Americans that they are rewarded with special travel advice from the US Department of State.
How is it so special, you may wonder? Well, it’s the only country where the State Department takes the time to delve into each state rather than summarize the country as a whole.
Frankly, most of Mexico is safe for travelers. It’s just that if you find yourself in the crosshairs of a war gone wrong, things can go wrong very quickly.
I’ve been to Mexico more than 200 times, and aside from a brief Uber-taxi conflict in Guanajuato, I’ve personally been treated with nothing but respect, kindness, and kindness by our southern neighbors.
However, there are some concrete ones no-go zones.
While Cancun, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta are certainly the base for great vacations, more and more travelers these days are venturing into the lesser-known ones.
New publishing travel advice updates This week, let’s see what information the State Department has dug up to warn Americans about visiting Mexico this time.
Cause for concern
Every time something ugly happens in Mexico, it seems to make the nightly news (if anyone is still paying attention).
Whether it’s mainstream headlines or special reports, Mexico gets more bad raps than The Island Boys trying to “make it.”
For example, you may have heard of the latter train derailment in Juarez. The way the headlines might portray this is, “Don’t ride the Mayan Train!”, which is essentially apples and oranges.
It is to the credit of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that they have at least huevos Unpleasant segment Mexico by state instead of lumping Los Cabos in with, say, Colima, a city with a rising crime rate that has nothing to do with Baja.
But like I said, there are places in Mexico that tourists shouldn’t visit, no matter how tempting they are.
Across the board, even in mega-popular cities like Mexico City, bad things do indeed happen to tourists.
Here are a few notable concerns noted in the latest travel advisory update:
- Widespread violence to attack (including murder, kidnapping and theft)
- Lack of resources in emergency situations
- Non-regulated transport (such as ‘pirate taxis‘)
Which Mexican states received new updates?
Good news for travelers with Mexican vacation plans: you probably have the green light!
Chances are you’ll head to Cancun, Los Cabos or Puerto Vallarta to find some beach bliss, or perhaps Mexico City for an urban sprawl full of action-packed culture and phenomenal food.
These are all the most popular destinations; probably not a coincidence, they are some of the safest.
It’s those with a deep sense of adventure, where off-the-beaten-path destinations surpass the allure of chic resorts, who need to keep their wits about them.
It makes sense, given the hype that the Mayan Train started the year with plans to showcase some of Mexico’s lesser-known gems like Chetumal and Campeche.
While this region is generally safe, a few other states are receiving new updates from the Department of State.
Both Chiapas and Durango have been chosen as destinations to be tired of right now.
Typically off the radar of the typical tourists, Chiapas could actually be considered Mexico’s last frontier.
Home to astonishing natural wonders, traditional villages, underrated towns and overlooked Mayan ruins like Palenque, if not for the travel advisory, it could easily be next in line as Mexico’s next tourist hotspot, especially neighboring Campeche.
Durango, on the other hand, is a mix of colonial splendor like the city of the same name, along with beautiful landscapes and outdoor adventures.
- Durango is now listed as Level 2: Be extra careful.
- Chiapas is now listed as Level 3: Rethink travel.
Tip: take a look at that of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs interactive map to determine your holiday destination
Tips from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to stay safe
Mexico has become a very popular destination for solo travelers, and why wouldn’t it be?
Despite safety concerns spreading across the country, Mexico is incredible for a solitary trip, whether it’s beach days, the splendor of small towns or big cities that swallow you up.
However, the State Department strongly recommends that you include loved ones in your plans, even if it is just a short taxi ride away.
Even if you are in a ‘safe’ destination, it is always wise to hide your wealth – no jewelry or electronics.
In addition, always be vigilant when going out at night, especially in bars, clubs and casinos.
Although only a safety warning was issued due to the increasing crime in Argentina’s nightlife, this could happen anywhere.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
