The U.S. State Department has issued an updated travel advisory for Mexico, elevating the country to a Level 2 alert and warning American travelers about significant risks of violent crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. The advisory urges increased caution, noting that the U.S. may have limited ability to assist travelers in emergencies.
Released on Aug. 12, the advisory highlights that violent crimes such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery are widespread in Mexico. It also notes the risk of terrorist violence, including potential attacks. This comes as Mexico continues to attract millions of international travelers, with approximately 45.04 million international tourists in 2024, including about 13.5 million from the United States.
Despite the heightened warning, one expert emphasized that Americans don’t necessarily need to cancel their trips. Robert McDonald, a retired supervisory Secret Service agent and lecturer in criminal justice at the University of New Haven, advised travelers to approach the advisory with a focus on situational awareness and common sense. He recommended avoiding travel into high-risk areas, staying within resort grounds, and being cautious about surroundings.
McDonald pointed out that while most resorts are generally safe, venturing off-property increases risks of exposure to cartel activity, gang violence, robbery, or drink tampering. He noted that resorts and cruise lines work hard to maintain safety reputations, often downplaying incidents to reassure guests. However, travelers who leave resort areas may face significant dangers, especially in regions dominated by drug cartels or where violence is common.
To ensure safety, McDonald recommended several precautions: avoiding street taxis, staying on resort grounds, being vigilant against distractions and drink tampering, dressing modestly, communicating safety with people back home, and being prepared for emergencies by knowing exit strategies and how to ‘get off the X’ quickly. He stressed that these tips apply not only to Mexican resorts but to any crowded environment, emphasizing the importance of awareness, preparation, and smart choices.
Ultimately, McDonald advised travelers to balance enjoyment with preparation, ensuring they are ready to remove themselves quickly from unsafe situations. He noted that a little bit of preparation, such as knowing the location of the consulate, police, or hospital, can make a significant difference in ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.