As February comes to an end, the U.S. Embassy and consulates in Mexico delivering a message to the thousands of U.S. citizens who plan to travel to Mexico this spring break.
Travel smart and be informed. Their memo encourages travelers to take crime, drugs, unregulated alcohol farms, schools, assault drug running, arrests, and other factors into consideration when planning their trip. The U.S. State Department has issued a Spring Break Mexico Travel Warning.
The State Department advises increased caution and safety tips for traveling to Mexico’s 31 states, six states have not do travel to advisories, the advisory also said :
“U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution in the downtown areas of popular spring break locations including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, especially after dark,”
A year ago, It was the same advisory with the same level of caution. The United States, State Department has travel advisories for every country in the world. There are levels of traveling, where:
- 1- means travel with normal caution
- 2- means travel with increased caution
- 3- means reconsider to travel
- 4 -means do not travel
For the states, that they’re saying do not travel to, that are like Ciudad, Juarez, and Nuevo Laredo. If you are not sure whether you should travel to Mexico or not, you should read the newspapers of the last two weeks, which will allow you to make an informed decision as to whether you’re going to go, or you’re not going to go at all. So, read up on the local news and you make your own decisions.
Image Credit: Pixabay
We have compiled some main points that the U.S. Embassy has issued as a Spring Break Travel advisory, you can also check the website of the U.S. Embassy for more details.
| Important Points | |
|---|---|
| Crime | – Maintain high situational awareness – Avoid areas with illicit activities |
| Drugs | – Possession and use are illegal – Synthetic drugs and adulterated pills are risky |
| Unregulated Alcohol | – May be contaminated – Consumption can lead to unconsciousness or injury |
| Pharmaceuticals | – Counterfeit medication is common – Purchase from reputable sources |
| Immigration | – Violating terms of stay can result in fines and detention |
| Drowning | – Some beaches have strong undercurrents and lack lifeguards |
| Medical Emergencies | – Treatment may be costly – Some facilities require payment upfront |
| Guns and Ammunition | – Illegal in Mexico – Violations may lead to lengthy jail time |
| Arrests | – Drunk and disorderly behavior is illegal – Breaking Mexican law can lead to arrest |
Actions to take:
| Actions To Take |
|---|
| Read Mexico Travel Advisory and Country Information Page for travel details and entry requirements. |
| Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for safety updates and emergency contact with U.S. Embassy. |
| In emergencies, call 911; seek Spanish-speaking assistance for better communication. |
| Ensure health insurance covers Mexico; consider travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage. |
| Avoid strong currents while swimming; refrain from swimming after drinking or in unsafe conditions. |
| Drink responsibly and monitor drinks; seek medical help if feeling unwell; report contaminated alcohol. |
| Stay with trusted companions; obey Mexican laws; monitor financial accounts; limit cash and use safe ATMs. |
| Protect personal belongings on public transportation; use reputable taxis or application-based car services. |
| Inform friends and family of travel plans; consider downloading Guest Assist app for emergency assistance. |
| Keep passport and entry permit safe; confirm departure date from Mexico. |
| Check advice for cruise passengers, especially those with health concerns. |
| Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance if needed. |
we did have a very similar situation last March, ahead of spring break or during spring break, the crime statistics are still the same as those of street crimes in general.
So in our opinion if The U.S State Department gives you a level two advisory, which is travel with increased caution, they’re telling you not to go to certain neighborhoods where some crime involve, please be cautious in visiting those areas, but the good thing is most Americans, when they’re on spring break, never leave the resort areas which is the best thing to be safe when visiting any place with a travel advisory.
The advisory also includes a push for travelers to enroll in something called the Smart Traveler, Enroll program. The State Department has had that for many years, whether you’re traveling in Mexico or London, It’s a good idea to register because if there’s an emergency or something really bad happens, the State Department has a better opportunity to locate you and give you news updates as to whether you are going to get evacuated out or how to get out.
FAQs
what documents do I need to travel to Mexico by car?
To travel to Mexico by car, you’ll need a valid passport, vehicle registration, driver’s license, and Mexican auto insurance. Bring any required visas or an entry permit issued by Instituto Nacional de Migración.
Ensure your vehicle meets Mexican regulations, including emission standards. Check for any updates or additional requirements before your trip. Safe travels!
When Traveling to Mexico What documents are required?
When traveling to Mexico, you’ll need a valid passport, tourist card (Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM), carry your driver’s license and vehicle registration, carry documents to prove the purpose of your trip for example, a hotel booking. Check for any specific entry requirements based on your nationality and mode of transportation.
Can I drive in Mexico with a US license?
Yes, you can drive, If you are a US citizen, your driver’s license is valid to drive in Canada and Mexico.