Spring Break 2023 Warnings Include Mexico's Beaches

As vacationers head south to avoid the cold and snow, many consider visiting Florida instead of Mexico this Spring Break. This change in the destination is based on recent travel alerts issued by local governments.

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico recently announced new advice for Spring Break 2023.

Both Canada and the U.S. are advising prospective visitors to many areas in Mexico to practice enhanced precautions as of March 17, 2023.

There are excessive violent crime rates, such as homicides, kidnappings, carjacking, and assaults, in 2023, including in popular tourist destinations such as the Mayan Riviera (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, and Tulum) and Acapulco.

While the vast majority of people travel safely, everyone should consider the following factors when planning their vacation or traveling throughout Mexico for Spring Break 2023:

• Crime can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations. Therefore, travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness and avoid areas where illicit activities occur.
• Unregulated alcohol may be contaminated, and visitors have reported losing consciousness or becoming injured after consuming alcohol that was possibly tainted.
• U.S. citizens have been victims of rape and sexual assault. Perpetrators may target inebriated or isolated individuals or employ drugs that alter the victim’s physical or mental state.
• Know your drinking companions and stay with friends who have your safety in mind when you are in clubs and bars, out walking in dimly lit areas, or in a taxi at night.  
• Obey Mexican law and remember that Mexican laws may differ from U.S. laws.

Furthermore, the U.S. Department of State suggests the following actions:

1. Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive up-to-date information on safety conditions in Mexico and to help the U.S. Embassy contact you in an emergency.
2. Call 911 in an emergency. Although there may be English-speaking operators available, it is best to seek the assistance of a Spanish speaker to place the call.
3. Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage in Mexico or purchase travel insurance that covers you in Mexico, and seek protection that includes medical evacuation.
4. Consider downloading the “Guest Assist” application on your smartphone if traveling to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cozumel, or other areas in the state of Quintana Roo. In addition, the Mexican government provides information on emergency services and assistance for tourists via the app and its website.

And remember, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate if you need assistance: From Mexico: (55) 8526 2561; From the United States:  +1-844-528-6611; and the U.S. Department of State – Consular Affairs:  +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444.

From a health perspective, the U.S. CDC has published various disease outbreaks in Mexico. In addition, the CDC says to be aware of current health issues in Mexico, such as dengue outbreaks near beaches.

The latest travel vaccine news for Mexico is posted at Vax-Before-Travel.com/Mexico.