A travel advisory recently issued for Mexico warns people to “exercise caution” in downtown areas of popular spots, including Cancún, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum, as more Americans travel during spring break.
The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico issued a Feb. 19 advisory that warns travelers about crime, drugs, unregulated alcohol, sexual assault, and other issues.
Here are the embassy’s nine potential issues to watch:
- Any drug possession and use is illegal in Mexico, including medical marijuana, and can result in long jail sentences. U.S. citizens have also suffered severe illness or death after using synthetic drugs or fake prescription pills.
- Unregulated alcohol may be contaminated, and U.S. citizens have reported losing consciousness or becoming injured after consuming tainted alcohol.
- Counterfeit medication is common and can be ineffective or dangerous. Purchase medication from reputable places and consult a medical professional.
- U.S. citizens have been victims of rape and sexual assault. Perpetrators can target drunk or isolated individuals or provide drugs that alter the victim’s physical or mental state.
- Some beaches have strong currents and rip tides that could result in drowning. Beaches can lack lifeguards, warnings, or signs of unsafe conditions.
- Illness or accidents may require medical treatment or hospitalization. Private hospital prices can be higher than in the U.S. or require upfront payment.
- All guns and even small amounts of ammunition are illegal in Mexico. Violations can lead to long jail sentences.
- In Mexico, it is illegal to be drunk and disorderly, urinate in public, or have open alcohol containers in vehicles. Breaking Mexican law can lead to arrest.
- Violating the terms of your stay in Mexico can result in fines and detention.
The embassy suggests travelers read the Mexico travel advisory and country information page, enroll in the U.S. State Department’s smart traveler enrollment program for safety updates, and help the embassy contact you in an emergency.
Source: US Department of State
