Spring break – it’s every student’s most coveted time, and every parent’s worst nightmare. The week-long celebration is typically adorned with bikinis, beaches and enough suntan oil to cover a small country.
This year, Spring Break alerts were heightened when the U.S. Department of State issued a travel warning to Mexico travelers, thanks to an increase in violence near U.S.-border cities in Mexico.
But what does it all mean? For starters, the advisories aren’t just for Spring Breakers – they extend to all U.S. travelers heading to Mexico. However, since Spring Break is synonymous with revelry and underage debauchery, it’s wise to underscore the importance of caution when on vacation for students.
Remember: it’s not just about the local violence. Exercising caution in the sun, in the water and while out at night will help prevent accidents from occurring and ensure your Spring Break will be made of fun memories.
All travelers should keep an eye on the following advice from the U.S. Department of State’s ‘Know Before You Go’ page:
Acapulco: Not a violence-targeted destination, but drug-related incidents have been increasing in Acapulco.
Cabo San Lucas: Students should beware of rough waves in Los Cabos. Beaches on the Pacific side are dangerous due to rip tides and rough waves. Students should take extra caution when swimming or surfing in this area.
Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Cozumel: Cancun is one of Mexico’s largest cities, and a popular destination for Spring Break parties. It’s also an increasingly common destination for crime. Students should be cautious at night and during the early morning hours, and always stay in groups.
South Padre Island: The little Texas town of South Padre Island is a favorite among Spring Breakers, but it’s also one of the closest Mexico-U.S. border cities. It’s highly advised that students vacationing in South Padre Island stay put and don’t wander to nearby Mexico border cities including Matamoros and Nuevo Progresso.
Mazatlan: This sleepy little beach resort isn’t high on the state department’s watch list because of violence, but Mazatlan travelers should practice common sense when vacationing here. Avoid walking alone at night and always obey warning signs at beaches and docks.
Oaxaca/Oaxaca City: Protests and demonstrations are common in Oaxaca City and travelers should take caution if they find themselves in the middle of a political rally. Demonstrations have been known to get violent, so it’s wise to stay away from the city center if there’s a planned protest happening.
In addition, the currents along the southern coast of Oaxaca are rough and have resulted in a number of drownings. Swimmers are advised to be cautious and listen to the professional lifeguards that stand watch over the area.
Tijuana: Tijuana is one of the busiest land border crossings in the world. It’s close proximity to California makes entry in and out of the U.S. easy from Mexico, but in recent years Tijuana as become a target among drug cartels for easy access to controlled medication. Travelers crossing the border into Mexico via Tijuana should be mindful of Mexico’s laws: All prescription medicine must be accompanied with a doctor’s note and the prescription must have a seal and serial number. Under no circumstances should a traveler attempt to purchase prescription medications in Tijuana from anyone other than a certified physician.
Bonus travel tip: Mind your manners in Mexico! American citizens traveling in Mexico are subject to Mexican law. If you find yourself in trouble, immediately contact the closest U.S. Consulate, U.S. Consular Agency, or the U.S.
Embassy in Mexico City.
Visit the U.S. Department of State’s Web site for more information on Mexico travel advisories and a list of U.S. Consulate and Embassy phone numbers throughout Mexico.
© Cheapflights Ltd Melanie Nayer
