The US government has issued a travel advisory for travelers heading to Mexico during the spring break due to the increase in crimes in Mexico. So, if you are traveling to Mexico this spring, you must follow these travel advisories.
Mexico Travel Advisory 2024
According to the Global Peace Index, Mexico is the least peaceful country in the world. Mexico is known for being the leading tourist destination in the world, but unfortunately, it also has high crime rates. Mexico is recognized globally for its high criminal activity from drug trafficking to homicides.
The US government has limited authority and ability to offer emergency services to US citizens at times of need in Mexico, as at certain places in Mexico, US employees are prohibited from traveling. That’s why the government has issued some warnings and advisories for the US citizens traveling to Mexico this spring break.
On 26 February 2024, the US Embassy and Consulate in Mexico issued the Mexico Travel advisory for the spring break.Â
List of 2024 Mexico Travel AdvisoryÂ
List of the travel advisories issued by the US authorities for Mexico travelers:
- Make sure you have informed your friends and family back home about your travel plans in Mexico.
- Remember to download the “Guest Assist Application on your mobile phone, if you are traveling to Cozumel, Tulum, Cancun, or any other areas of Quintana Roo State.
- Make sure you are aware of your surroundings and protect your luggage and possessions while taking public transport. If taxi services like Uber are available, use those services.
- When you are traveling alone, do not drive at night and use toll roads.Â
- Be vigilant while at clubs, local bars, and casinos. Always watch your drink and if you feel sick or anything, call the medical service immediately. Report the cases of contaminated or drink spike online to the Mexico COFEPRIS ( Mexico Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risk). You can also visit the COFEPRIS office or you can call +52 01-8-033-5050.
- Make sure before you travel to Mexico, you have enrolled in STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program). Through STEP, you will receive updates and alerts on Mexico’s safety Conditions and it will be easy for the US embassy to locate you at the time of emergency.
- Make sure you follow the US Department of State on every social media platform, so you can easily contact them.
- If you are a mariner, make sure you check the maritime advisories and warnings on the Department of State page.Â
- Check your health insurance plans and their coverage in Mexico. If you do not have travel insurance covering Mexico, make sure you buy health insurance with Mexico coverage.Â
Safety Concerns in Mexico
The US Embassy has the following safety concerns:
- Drugs: US citizens should avoid drug possession and use in Mexico.Â
- Crime: Crime can occur anywhere, so make sure you avoid high crime rate places in Mexico, especially at night.
- Arrest: Mexico has strict laws for drunk and disorderly behavior, opening alcohol containers in vehicles, and public urination, which can lead you to get arrested for any violation.
- Contaminated Alcohol: Over the years, there have been many cases of contaminated alcohol in Mexico, which caused many US citizens injuries and loss of consciousness after consumption.
- Drowning: Some beaches in Mexico have strong tides and currents, so make sure you are aware of such beaches.Â
- Immigration: If there are any violations in terms of stay in Mexico, the travelers can get detention and hefty fines.
- Guns and ammunition: Mexico has very strict laws regarding the possession of guns and ammunition and any violation can result in a jail sentence for a longer period.
- Rape and Sexual Assault: Many Us citizens have been the victim of sexual assaults and rape and human trafficking in Mexico.
Places that you should not travel in Mexico
According to the advisory, the US Embassy & Consulate of Mexico has mentioned some states that they advised to not travel in this spring due to the high criminal rate:
- Sinaloa State
- Zacatecas
- Tamaulipas State
- Guerrero State
- Colima State
- Michoacan State
The department has also mentioned some places to reconsider if you are planning to travel to Mexico due to the high criminal rate:
- Durango State
- Baja California
- Guanajuato State
- Chihuahua State
- Morelos State
- Jalisco State
- Sonora State
Remember, if you are traveling to Mexico make sure you have checked the official page of the Department of State and the US Embassy related to Mexico to be aware of all the instructions and authorities, so your stay will be safe and protected.