Mexico is so hugely popular for Americans that they’re rewarded with a special travel advisory issued by the U.S. State Department.
How is it so special, you might ask? Well, it’s the only country where the State Dept. takes time to delve into each state rather than sum up the country as a whole.
Truth be told, most of Mexico is safe for travelers. It’s just that if you do find yourself in the crosshairs of a turf war gone wrong, things can go awry real quick.
I’ve been to Mexico over 200 times, and other than a brief Uber-taxi conflict in Guanajuato, I have personally been treated with nothing but respect, kindness, and friendliness by our southern neighbors.
However, there are some definite no-go zones.
While Cancun, Los Cabos, and Puerto Vallarta are certainly the staples for awesome vacations, more travelers are venturing into the lesser-known nowadays.
Issuing new travel advisory updates this week, let’s see what State Dept. intel has dug up to warn Americans about visiting Mexico this time.
Cause For Concern
Every time something unsightly happens in Mexico, it seems to make the nightly news (if anyone even pays attention anymore).
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 about the recent train derailment in Juarez. The way headlines might spin this is “Don’t Ride the Maya Train!”, which is essentially apples and oranges.
To the State Department’s credit, at least they have the huevos to segment Mexico by state rather than lump Los Cabos in with, say, Colima, a city with a rising crime rate unrelated to Baja.
But, like I said, there are places tourists should not visit in Mexico as tempting as they may be.
Across the board, even in mega-popular cities like Mexico City, bad things do indeed happen to tourists.
Here are a few notable concerns listed in the latest travel advisory update:
- Widespread violent attacks (including homicide, kidnapping, and robbery)
- Lack of assistive resources in emergencies
- Unregulated transportation (such as ‘pirate taxis‘)
Which Mexican States Received New Updates?
Good news for travelers with Mexican vacation plans in store – you probably have the green light!
Chances are you’re going to Cancun, Los Cabos, or Puerto Vallarta to find some beach bliss, or perhaps Mexico City for an urban sprawl of action-packed culture and phenomenal food.
These are all the most popular destinations; probably not a coincidence, they are also some of the safest.
It’s those with a deep sense of adventure where off-path destinations outshine the allure of ritzy resorts that have to keep their head on a swivel.
It makes sense, given how hyped the Maya Train was beginning the year with plans to showcase some of Mexico’s lesser-known gems, like Chetumal and Campeche.
While this region is generally safe, it’s a pair of other states receiving new updates from the State Dept.
Both Chiapas and Durango have been singled out as destinations to be weary of right now.
Typically off the typical tourists’ radar, Chiapas could actually be considered the last frontier of Mexico.
Home to astounding natural wonders, traditional villages, underrated cities, and overlooked Mayan Ruins like Palenque, without the travel advisory it could easily be next in line as Mexico’s next tourism 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: Exercise Increased Caution.
- Chiapas is now listed as Level 3: Reconsider Travel.
Tip: Check out the State Department’s interactive map to pinpoint your vacation destination
State Department’s Tips To Remain Safe
Mexico has become a very popular destination for solo travelers, and why wouldn’t it be?
Despite safety concerns dispersed throughout the country, Mexico is incredible for a lone journey, whether it be beach days, small-town splendor, or vast cities that consume you.
However, the State Dept. strongly advises letting loved ones in on your plans even if it’s just a quick cab ride.
Even if you’re in a ‘safe’ destination, it’s always wise to hide your wealth – no jewelry or electronics.
Additionally, always be vigilant going out at night, especially bars, clubs, and casinos.
While there was just a security alert issued for Argentina’s rise in nightlife crime, this could happen anywhere.
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