If you have concerns about traveling to Mexico because of recent media reports about violence associated with organized crime, our advice is to continue with your vacation plans to visit this beautiful country. It is safe to travel to Cancun, the Riviera Maya, the Yucatan Peninsula and many other parts of Mexico.
On August 22, the US State Department updated its travel alert for Mexico, as it does periodically for more than 100 countries around the world. On this occasion, it included a reference to the state of Quintana Roo, Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Cozumel, mentioning that there has been an increase in homicides in the state when compared to the same period in 2016 and that there have been several shootings involving criminal groups. Other changes in the advisory refer to an upsurge in crime in parts of Baja California Sur, Baja California, Colima, Guerrero and Veracruz, among others.
It is important to note that the travel alert does not advise people against visiting Cancun or the Riviera Maya, two of the world’s most popular vacation spots.
Cancun, the Riviera Maya and the Yucatan Peninsula are safe to visit
Cancun, the Riviera Maya and the Yucatan Peninsula as a whole have always been, and remain, among the safest places in the world for visitors. Violent incidents are isolated. There is no cause for increased concern or for cancelling a trip.
A statement issued by the Mexican Tourism Board on August 23 about the US State Department travel alert says “The overwhelming majority of the crimes mentioned in the travel alert have taken place in locations not frequented by international tourists (such as inner-city areas or private properties) and incidents such as these are rare in popular tourist areas.” Click here to read a statement (PDF) from the Quintana Roo Tourism Board.
In keeping with many other tourist destinations around the world, security has been upgraded in Quintana Roo in recent years and police patrols in Cancun and Playa del Carmen will be further increased.
Mexico is one of the World’s most Popular Travel Destinations
Millions of people vacation in Mexico every year and enjoy their stay. More than one million US citizens also make their home here on a fulltime or part-time basis.
The country welcomed 35 million international visitors in 2016 and climbed to No. 8 in the World’s Top 10 Travel Destinations. Visitor numbers continue to rise in 2017. Figures released by the Mexico Tourism Board indicate that from January – July, visitors from the U.S. have increased by 9.6 percent (6.2 million visitors), in comparison to the same period in 2016. Overall, international visitors to Mexico
have increased by more than 9 percent. During 2016, 94 percent of U.S. visitors reported an experience that exceeded their expectations and 86 percent said they would like to come back again in the next six months.
Mexico is the world’s 14th largest country with a territory measuring 758,774 square miles and a population of 119,530,753 (2015 estimate, INEGI). It offers a world of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Its beautiful Caribbean and Pacific beaches, natural wonders and wildlife, ancient cultures, colonial cities, rich traditions, cuisine and the warm hospitality of its people have an enduring appeal.
The safety of visitors wherever they are in the country is a priority for the Mexican government and the authorities are extremely vigilant in all tourist destinations and major cities.
The Key to Safe Travel, Common Sense
Major cities in the US and around the world have neighborhoods with a reputation for crime and gang violence. Common sense is the key to safety wherever you travel, whether at home or abroad, and may we suggest that you take certain precautions, just as you would if you were going to a new city in your own country or elsewhere.
Always be aware of your surroundings and stay alert, stick to reputable restaurants, bars and other establishments in well-known tourist areas of the city and drink responsibly. Take care when visiting unfamiliar areas and avoid walking alone at night through poorly lit neighborhoods or isolated areas. The possession of drugs is a federal offence in Mexico.
Security at Royal Resorts
Royal Resorts has the security and comfort of its members and guests as its top priority. Security guards patrol the resorts and the beaches 24 hours a day. There are closed circuit cameras in public areas and other key locations. Electronic safes are provided in all the suites and rooms for members and guests to store money, jewelry and travel documents.
Go ahead with your Mexico vacation plans. You’ll enjoy your stay in Cancun and the Riviera Maya and discovering the wonders of the Yucatan.
For those of you who are longtime visitors to the Mexican Caribbean with strong ties to the community, there is no reason for you to change your travel plans. We look forward to seeing you soon in your resort home.
