Stick to well-populated locations like downtown Cancun and the hotel zone unless traveling with an approved tour or informed locals. The hotel zone is the safest area of Cancun. Here you will find a 13-mile circuit of stunning white sand beaches surrounded by resorts and hotels.

Suggested: Cancun seaweed forecast

LATEST UPDATES / NEWS from CANCUN:

May 12 – Cancun Sends More Security Agents To Beaches To Protect Tourists

The beaches of El Nino and Punta Sam, as well as business establishments near the coast, are now monitored by local police, the National Guard, and the Secretariat for Citizen Security. 

The agents of the Secretariat of Citizen Security will also be responsible for monitoring the Supermanzana 89 area. The K-9 Unit of the Northern Zone will also be deployed to support these agents, as the K-9s can detect drugs, explosives, and firearms. 

These actions are part of the strategies of the New Model of Citizen Security of Quintana Roo.

April 25 – Areas You Should Avoid When Visiting Cancun 

Visitors to Cancun should limit their travel to tourist areas.   

This comprises the hotel zone in Cancun, gated resort communities, specific commercial areas, and other tourist destinations.   

Certain communities that are infamous for crime are the ones you do want to stay away from.   

The four neighborhoods that are considered to be the most dangerous are as follows: 

• Bonfil  
• Tres Reyes 
• Santa Cecilia 
• Valle Verde 

It is important to note that despite warnings about safety in Cancun, millions of Americans travel there every year because it is usually a safe place to visit.

March 23 – Increased surveillance and nightclub inspections are part of Cancun’s increased tourist safety measures

According to Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa, security operations in the Mexican Caribbean are being carried out with the help of corporations from all three levels of government before the start of spring break.

“We are all working daily on joint actions under the new agreement for the welfare and development of Quintana Roo to increase security. We maintain a presence on all beaches with officers from the Navy, the National Guard, the Tourist Police and the State Police,” she said.

She said “Operation Red Circle” begins every day at 10 p.m. to monitor bars and nightclubs. In addition to the surveillance that takes place from the C5, there are immediate attention centers called (CAIS) and tents where security cameras are constantly checked.

Common scams to avoid in Cancun in 2023

The only disadvantage of traveling is tourist frauds (along with the expenses). It’s bad that many lovely places we visit have a small percentage who live on taking advantage of innocent tourists who come to support their local economy. Cancun, Mexico, is no exception and has its own share of scammers. In 2023, here’s how to prevent tourism scams in Cancun, Mexico.

Picture Scam

When a local asks you to take their picture, it’s a common scam in Cancun, Mexico. They hand you their camera and asks you to take their picture. When you return the camera, they intentionally drop it and accuse you of breaking it and demand payment. Please do not photograph anyone (unless you are sure they are not locals).

Taxis Overcharging

When taking a cab in Cancun, always request that the meter be turned on. It’s also a good idea to plan your route before getting in the cab so you know how long the ride will take.

Friendly ATM Helper

Someone approaches you at a Cancun ATM cash machine to assist you in avoiding local bank fees. Their ultimate goal is to scan your debit or credit card with the card skimmer in their pocket and then watch you enter your pin information so they may drain your account later.

“Friendly” Bar Friends

Beware of the following scam if hooking up is something you plan to do while visiting Cancun, Mexico. Two amiable girls (or guys) will strike up small talk and give the impression that they are interested in the same things. After that, they’ll propose getting a drink and offer you to join them in a nearby bar (which they are partners with). You’ll end up spending five to ten times as much after a few drinks. There are a few things you can take to protect yourself from falling for this tourist fraud in Cancun. You may start by suggesting the bar.  Be sure to request the bar menu when you arrive, in order to check the prices.

Bird Poop Scam

Your natural reaction when someone puts a piece of white paste on your shoulder while you are walking the streets of Cancun is to look up and think it’s bird poop. Suddenly, a “nice” local offers to help you clean it up while cursing the birds for making such a mess. They help you clean up, but they also steal from you.

Please politely decline any “help” from locals who rush to your aid unless it is an emergency. Keep everything you own hidden, preferably with your money and credit cards in an inside pocket.

Guessing Game Scam

While strolling through the streets of Cancun, Mexico, you come across a man holding three boxes, with a throng of onlookers attempting to determine which box the ball is placed in. When someone in the group correctly guesses the solution, the man awards him with cash as a prize. They repeat this with a different group member and get the same response. More and more people are drawn by the ruckus to this charitable street performer. An innocent bystander from the crowd is then invited to make an estimate. The group rapidly pickpockets them for any valuables while they are focused on where the ball is.

Safety Measures To Keep in Mind When Visiting Cancun Area

• Share your vacation plans with your travel companions and family at home. Send your GPS location to a friend in case you get separated from your travel group. If you are traveling alone and taking a cab, take a picture of the cab’s number and/or license plate and text it to a contact.
• Use toll roads whenever possible and do not drive at night or alone. In many states, police presence and emergency services are severely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
• Use extreme caution when entering local bars, clubs or casinos.
• Do not flaunt your wealth by wearing expensive jewelry or watches.
• When using an ATM or visiting a bank.
• To receive alerts and help rescuers find you, sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
• Follow the U.S. Department of State on Twitter and Facebook.
• Follow the U.S. Embassy on Twitter and Facebook.
• Read the country security report for Mexico.
• Create an emergency plan. Review the travel checklist.

Why visit Cancun

1. Underwater museum

Visiting the largest underwater sculpture park will be one of your most fascinating experiences in Cancun. The museum displays nearly 500 statues created by Jason deCaires, a British sculptor and other Mexican artists. 

The museum was conceived with the objective to save the coral reef by drawing snorkelers away

2. The cenotes

Jump on a guided tour and come visit this unique geological element of Mexico. The cenotes are natural sinkholes that expose fresh groundwater underneath.

Explore the breathtaking caves and caverns and walk the path that once the ancient Mayas considered the door to the underworld.

3. The Coco Bongo

Better to be vaccinated because it’s going to be crazily crowded inside! 

Ranked as one of the best nightspots in Cancun, Coco Bongo offers a unique show production, a mix of different types of music, and the very latest in audio and video entertainment, and alcohol! Rivers of it.

Update archives

February 10 – Cancun Airbnbs will only be able to operate in safe areas

There will be restrictions on where online rentals can operate, which will affect availability for vacationers.

Authorities this week unveiled new measures to restrict Airbnb rentals to certain areas in an effort to reduce the number of unsafe or unsanitary rentals.

The Quintana Roo Tourism Commission, an organization affiliated with the state legislature, claims that a number of locations do not meet minimum safety requirements for online rentals. In light of many considerations, including crime rates, the new laws will specify exactly where Airbnb is allowed to operate.

January 24 – U.S. Issues Cancun Travel Warning Amid Attacks On Uber Drivers And Passengers

The U.S. State Department issued a travel warning for Quintana Roo State in Mexico following attacks and harassment of Uber drivers and passengers. This heat-up situation comes after a judge approved Uber’s Amparo company to legally operate in Quintana Roo, including Cancun.

January 24 – Cancun continues to be safe despite a spike in violence in Mexico

Travelers can still feel safe in the State of Quintana Roo because of increased security measures, despite a recent spike in violence in various regions of Mexico. To ensure that visitors to Cancun and the surrounding area have safe holidays, thousands of law enforcement officers have been added in addition to various other safety measures.

Tourist numbers are expected to rise in the Mexican Caribbean destinations of Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum in advance of the busy winter travel season. As a result, Cancun’s secretary for public security, José Pablo Mathey, declared that authorities “are trying to deter crime in high-risk zones thanks to our crime prevention units together with our federal and state partners.”

January 9 – Quintana Roo is one of the safest states for tourists to visit in 2023, authorities say

Quintana Roo in Mexico remains one of the safest states for tourists, despite rising crime rates and reports of bloodshed sparked by cartel warfare in several parts of the country. This is due to improved security measures. Although organized crime is still a problem, few visitors are directly affected. And thanks to the thousands of police officers protecting tourists, visitors can feel safe on their upcoming Cancun vacation, officials say.

December 21 – Cancun has continued its tough crackdown on crime with the arrest of 5 high-profile criminals

The Coordination Group for the Construction of Peace and Security Quintana Roo has managed to arrest five people, including a woman, for their alleged involvement in crimes against health and illegal possession of firearms for the exclusive use of the Armed Forces.

The police officers took action after observing a strange exchange of items during the operation that set off alarm bells. In addition to considerable quantities of what is believed to be marijuana, police also discovered five short. 9- caliber pistols, many cell phones, and sim cards believed to be used for illegal purposes.

December 5: The number of homicides decreased in Cancun in October.

Crime is up less than 5%, and homicides have actually decreased in recent weeks.

In Cancun, the number of homicides decreased by about 16 percent in October compared to the previous month. It is also worth noting that the vast majority of these incidents do not involve tourists, but rival drug traffickers fighting over territory.

Due to the increase in criminal activity, the U.S. State Department issued travel advisories for several parts of Mexico in October. For travel to Quintana Roo, State advised “exercise increased caution” The warning said this was due to “crime and kidnappings.”

October 25 – 100 Navy officers have been stationed in Cancun to help fight crime

Rear Admiral Rubén Oyarvide Pedrero, the Secretary of Public Security of Quintana Roo, visited Cozumel earlier this month to discuss the rise in some types of crime there.

He assured the community that personnel are currently being transferred to assist state and local police.

In the coming days, additional Marine personnel will be en route from Mexico City to Cozumel. These police officers will assist in both crime prevention and crime suppression. In addition, Marine Special Forces officers have been dispatched to Cozumel, arriving by plane Thursday evening.

November 16 – A tourist was reportedly found dead in a hotel room in Playa del Carmen, near Cancun.

On Monday, Nov. 14, a traveler, identified as 41-year-old Deyson Konsiechak, was found lifeless in bed at the Ocean Maya Royale hotel, just north of Playa del Carmen. The incident came to light when Konsiechak’s travel partner, who also shared a room with him, returned to the hotel room and found Konsiechak dead in bed.

The cause of death had not been announced at the time of writing this update.

October – Security analyst warns Americans about ‘risky’ travel to Cancun and other areas of Mexico

Along Mexico’s Caribbean and Pacific coasts, well-known tourist sites have been affected by incidents that put innocent people at risk.

One of the six most popular destinations in the Caribbean coastal state of Quintana Roo is Cancun, which former DEA Special Agent Derek Maltz told the Courier-Journal that he advised a friend against sending his daughter there on vacation.

I would not send my child there because it’s too unsafe,” Maltz said. “I’d show them the phone with all the violence down there.”

Colima, Guerrero, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas, Michoacán and Sinaloa are among the states the government strongly advises American citizens not to visit.

September – State Department officials issued a warning about traveling to Cancun and nearby locations

Officials from the State Department warned of an upsurge in violence against Americans.

While the US government has not enforced travel restrictions on its employees in Quintana Roo tourist areas such as Cancun, Cozumel, and Tulum, it has issued a general warning to Americans.

“increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.”

Tourists are warned to “remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones” in the wake of shootings between rival cartels that have injured bystanders.

July – Family of American Allegedly killed In Cancun Sues Resort 

The family of murdered Arlington firefighter Elijah Snow has filed a lawsuit against the Mexican resort and a local travel agency.

At the Royalton Chic Cancun Resort & Spa, Elijah and his wife Jamie Lynn Snow were commemorating their tenth wedding anniversary when the father of two was allegedly kidnapped and assassinated.

Jamie filed a lawsuit against the Royalton Chic Hotel Resort & Spa in Cancun, Blue Diamond Hotels and Resorts, Inc., and Sunwing Travel Group, a privately held travel business with its headquarters in Toronto, Canada, claiming more than $1 million in damages.

Both the hotel and the Mexican government have insisted that Mr. Snow’s death was an accident, but the family has vigorously challenged those claims. The lawsuit focuses on the hotel’s activities on the day of the murder. Ms. Snow alleges that the hotel recklessly encouraged its guests to get drunk and that there was inadequate video surveillance, among other security measures.

May – Safety report

This month, Mexico’s Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection reported the arrest of Oscar Iván “N,” the alleged mastermind behind the murders of Robert Dinh and Thomas Cherukara, two Canadian citizens related to drug trafficking, according to officials.

According to the Security and Gender Observatory of Quintana Roo (OSEGE), the state had the fourth-highest number of femicides in Mexico in 2021, down from 13th place in 2020. It also has the greatest number of rapes reported in the country.

Furthermore, while the homicide rate has stayed constant (Quintana Roo has ranked tenth in the country in homicides since 2020), the state has the highest rate of manslaughter cases in the country.

January 17 – Cancun seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases

Cancun, one of the major tourism hot spots in Mexico, is seeing a spike in coronavirus cases after a busy holiday season.

Quintana Roo, home to Cancun, had set its daily case record in March 2021 with 574 new infections. But the figure was exceeded by the beginning of January 2022. On average, there are now around 814 new cases daily.

Quintana Roo isn’t the only region struggling with Omicron. It is also Mexico City or Baja California Sur. Even for the rising number of infections, Mexico stays open for international visitors without significant safety measures.

Source: The Washington Post

December 6 – Cancun will not impose extra COVID-19 restrictions for now

Foreign travelers to Quintana Roo are not subject to any restrictions. It might change, though, if the Omicron variant presents a proven threat to the population, according to Andrés Aguilar Becerril, the local Tourism Secretary.

For the time being, Cancun will maintain the same procedures, such as temperature tests at the airport, mandatory face mask use, and random health questionnaires.

As of December 6, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintained Mexico’s travel advisory rating at level 3 — “high” risk.

November 7 – Cancun continues to receive international tourists without restrictions

Cancun remains open for international visitors without entry restrictions. It has reported a rise in hotel reservations for the winter season. As of now, hotels in the whole of Quintana Roo are supposed to be occupied at 90% or more in December.

Also, on Saturday, November 6, Cancun International Airport saw 513 operations between arrivals and departures with no restrictions or health protocols for travelers from Europe, the U.S., and the rest of the world.

Source: El Sol de México

September 22 – Quintana Roo among 10 states with the highest vaccination rate in Mexico

As of today, September 22, Quintana Roo has distributed over 1.6 million COVID-19 vaccine doses, which makes it one of the top ten states with the highest vaccination rate in the country. Also, it has recently been moved to the “yellow” alert level list.

Even though most public spaces are now open again and non-essential travel is allowed, Governor Carlos Joaquín insists on following the usual preventive measures to be able to move to “green” on Mexico’s traffic lights system.

He also pointed out the importance of getting vaccinated to help restore the country’s economy.

Source

August 30 – Cancun maintains high rate of tourist flow even through a spike in coronavirus cases

According to the State Secretary of Tourism, over 3 million travelers stayed in Quintana Roo this summer. Even though the holiday season is officially over, more than 120,000 visitors are still staying in the region.

On average, hotels have maintained a 60 percent occupancy rate this summer. While now during the orange epidemiology alert, only 50 percent occupancy of tourist services is allowed.

Also, a number of U.S. airlines have exceeded the pre-pandemic levels of passengers to Mexico. More than 2.3 million travelers flew to the state in July, which became the busiest month since the beginning of the pandemic.

Source: Riviera Maya News

The post Is CANCUN SAFE To Visit? Travel Advisory 2023 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

But not all parts of Mexico are safe for travelers. In this article, we’ll take a look at the most dangerous cities in Mexico in 2023.

Suggested: Is it safe to visit Mexico now? (Complete guide)

Tijuana 

Tijuana is considered the most dangerous city in Mexico due to its high rate of homicides and drug-related violence.

The homicide rate is 138 per 100,000 people. As the main entry point for drugs coming from South America, Tijuana is a hotbed of cartel activity. Being close to the border with the United States, it is also a major center for human trafficking and organized crime.

Tijuana is also considered the most dangerous city in the world, according to homicide rate stats.

Acapulco

While many tourists still flock to Acapulco for its beaches, it is also one of the most dangerous cities in Mexico. The city’s homicide rate is 111 per 100,000 people. Acapulco has seen a sharp rise in drug-related violence as various cartels battle for control of the city’s lucrative drug trade. This city is also situated inside of Guerrero, the infamous state known for its high levels of violence, turmoil due to turf wars between gangs, and for its production of heroin.

Ciudad Victoria

Located in Tamaulipas state, Ciudad Victoria is one of the most violent cities in Mexico. The homicide rate here stands at 86 per 100,000 people and it is another hot spot for drug-related violence. It is also an entryway city, with Tamaulipas sitting just beyond the U.S. border. Members of the Northeast Cartel actively run their operations in Ciudad Victoria.

Ciudad Juarez

Another border city, residents of El Paso can see Ciudad Juarez from their side of the Rio Grande. It is one of the most violent cities in Mexico, with a homicide rate of 86 per 100,000 people. The city is another hotbed for drug trafficking and has seen a sharp rise in violence due to turf wars between the Juarez and Sinaloa cartels. Both of these powerful cartels have a strong presence in Ciudad Juarez.

Irapuato

Irapuato is located in the central state of Guanajuato, and in the past three years has seen a sharp increase in homicides due to drug-related violence. The city has a homicide rate of 81 per 100,000 people, making it one of the most unsafe cities for tourists and, unfortunately, locals that call this city home. Murders here are largely attributed to turf wars between the Jalisco Cartel New Generation and the Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel.

Cancun 

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has recently warned tourists about the dangers of visiting Cancun after a string of cartel-related shootings, robberies, and attacks on tourists in the city. The homicide rate here is 64 per 100,000 people, making it far less deadly than other cities in Mexico, but still notorious for its high levels of violence. 

Culiacán 

While Culiacan was once seen as a mid to low-level dangerous city, it is now the site of a deadly battle that occurred due to the arrest of cartel leader El Chapo’s son, Ovidio Guzman. The city has a homicide rate of 61 per 100,000 people and is considered the central city in Sinaloa. The Sinaloa Cartel has a firm grip on the city and its residents, making it incredibly dangerous for tourists to visit. 

Uruapan 

In Uruapan, violence has steadily increased for this mountainside city in Michoacan. Sadly, it seems as though the violence here only continues to escalate. The once quiet town is now home to battling cartels that consistently change hands and names. Killings occur in the most indiscreet areas, such as arcades and bars. The current homicide rate here is 55 per 100,000 residents.

Ciudad Obredón 

Cuidad Obregon is the second largest city in Sonora, but now has a new notoriety – being named the fourth most dangerous city in the world in 2022. This rise in violence is not just in Ciudad Obredon, but in the surrounding area of Cajame, the state’s southernmost region. Only time will tell if this steep increase in crime will continue to hold. Its current homicide rate is 52 per 100,000 residents.

Coatzacoalcos

With a homicide rate of 48 per 100,000 residents, Coatzacoalcos was once a vibrant tourist spot in Veracruz. Today, it is the sight of violence where recently nine bodies were left on the street. Murder, robbery, and violent crime make this city one of the top ten most dangerous in Mexico.

Celaya

The accounts state that over 1000 people were brutally murdered each year. The rise in drug sales, thefts, and human trafficking were all noted, so the story doesn’t end here. It is unsafe to spend your holiday in Celaya.

Currently, Celaya is regarded as one of the most dangerous cities in the world, with 109.38 killings per 100,000 residents.

Ensenada

Only other parts of Mexico, 1,400 miles away, have official U.S. State Department travel warnings or restrictions.

According to residents and press reports, violence has increased. However, tourism and locals have not been affected by this unrest.

In the last months, the number of violent murders in Ensenada and Tijuana has increased, mostly at night and outside the city center. The city center is still very safe, although there are some risks in the ungated neighborhoods further out. Day trips or travel through the Vine Valley are not affected by this shift.

Tepic

Tepic is not a tourist town. That doesn’t mean tourists aren’t welcome. The main urban center of this thriving agricultural region is Tepic, where sugar cane, tobacco, and citrus fruits are among the most important crops. The town, originally known as Villa del Espíritu Santo de la Mayor España, was founded in 1531.

Rated 36th last year among world cities by homicide rate, Tepic, Mexico had a murder rate of 45 per 100,000 population.

• Homicides per 100,000 in 2018: 45

• Homicides in 2018: 230

That is more than twice Chicago’s homicide rate (Which was 24 in 2017, and decreased significantly in 2018 to around 20)

According to the US State Department travelers should avoid Tepic and San Blas. Please visit the US State Department website for up-to-date advice on travel safety in Nayarit.

Reynosa

Reynosa is located just across the Rio Grande on the border with the United States and is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous cities in Mexico, where gang violence is recurring. Travel to this area is discouraged. Nevertheless, Reynosa is an important industrial center for northern Tamaulipas and the Rio Grande Valley. Most companies are in the electronics and automotive industries.

Overall risk: High

Reynosa has a reputation as one of the most dangerous cities in Mexico. This is due to ongoing conflicts between gangs and police corruption.

Therefore, it is not recommended for tourists to travel to this region, and the number of immigrants living here is increasing. Robberies, kidnappings and thefts are common. Therefore, it is important to take high security measures to protect yourself and your belongings.

The post 14 Most Dangerous Cities in Mexico in 2023, According to Data appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

The agents carry out patrols on the main streets of Superblock 89 and also enter the beach area to carry out actions of social proximity with visitors and citizens, in addition to the official patrols to prevent crimes in the area.

Also present in the tours are elements of the Dog Squad of the Northern Zone, such as “Logan”, that assist in surveillance and prevention, the location of firearms, explosives and narcotics.

The agency pointed out that surveillance continues permanently in the areas with the greatest public traffic and on the beaches of tourist destinations, as part of the prevention strategies of the New Model of Citizen Security of Quintana Roo.

U.S. State Department Advisories For Mexico

Travel warnings issued by the U.S. Department of State are currently in effect for almost all states in Mexico. The level of seriousness of these warnings ranges from “Do Not Travel” to “Reconsider Travel” to “Exercise Increased Caution.”

Only two states —Yucatan and Campeche— have the lowest classification, “Exercise Normal Precautions.”

Due to concerns about crime and kidnappings, many of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations are currently under travel warnings.

Jalisco and Baja California, for example, are both places to “Reconsider Travel.” But Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos, two extremely popular vacation spots, are located in those states.

Americans are actually making record-breaking travel reservations to these places as opposed to rethinking their travel plans.

In a similar vein, the U.S. State Department advises tourists to “Exercise Increased Caution” when visiting Quintana Roo, the state that is home to well-known beach resorts such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

Hotels in Cancun are still full despite warnings to tourists. Some hotels are even having trouble filling vacancies fast enough to keep up with the rapidly increasing demand.

The post Cancun Reinforces Surveillance Service To Boost Tourist Safety appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

U.S. Embassy in Mexico issued an official travel warning following more than 120 timeshare developments in Puerto Vallarta.

There are numerous forms of timeshare fraud, but they often involve the following steps: When timeshare owners accept an unsolicited offer from third parties claiming to have potential buyers, the scammers require them to pay fees and taxes upfront with the assurance that they will be refunded at closing. After several payments, however, timeshare owners learn that the offers were false, there were no buyers, and their money was lost. To protect yourself from timeshare scams, it’s critical to remain aware of these strategies.

Timeshare fraud resources 

The FBI and the Securities and Exchange Commission released a warning in 2020 to alert consumers about fraudsters targeting timeshare owners in Mexico. If you have been a victim of this scam, you are advised to file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. To do so, you can visit their website at https://www.ic3.gov.

Perpetrators of timeshare fraud sometimes use the names of government agencies to make themselves appear more credible. For instance, they may contact victims and falsely claim to represent OFAC, demanding a payment to release funds that they claim have been blocked by the agency. In response, OFAC has issued a warning about these scams, cautioning individuals that perpetrators may falsely claim to represent the agency in order to perpetrate their fraudulent schemes.

The post U.S. Issues Official Travel Warning For Americans Over Timeshare Scams In Mexico appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Campeche was founded in 1540 approximately nineteen years after the Aztec Empire was overthrown. The Mexican state of Campeche is composed of about three thousand houses and is located in the Gulf of Mexico.

The walled fortress city was built to protect occupants from pirates. Visitors can take Instagram photos at the two forts; Fuerte de San Jose el Alto and Fuerte de San Miguel. 

Every part of Campeche is ideal for taking a picture and the fortresses, colorful houses and walls make it a photo paradise for visitors. The city is a popular venue for taking wedding photographs because it’s Instagram-friendly with multiple spots where you can take a unique photo.

Campeche state is home to seventeen archeological sites like Calakmul which is the largest Mayan city to be discovered. Each facade of this historic center has bright colors and one can spend hours taking photos.

This town takes visitors back to the past and is one of the few cities in the world that have remained untouched by tourism. Many describe the city as a historic fairyland due to the vibrant sense of life brought by the brightly colored facades.

Campeche is accessible to tourists and has an international airport near Cancun and Merida. Therefore, it’s an ideal travel destination and easy to include in any trip. 

The ideal way to end a tour of Campeche is to take a walk in Malecon and enjoy an unforgettable sunset experience as one takes Instagram pictures. Safety is not a concern when taking long walks because Campeche is one of the safest travel destinations in Mexico, making it ideal for family vacations.

Overall, Campeche is one of the few historic centers in the world composed of colorful streets that are ideal for an Instagram photo. It is among the ten UNESCO World Heritage cities in Mexico.

The post This Mexican Town Is One Of The Most Instagrammable Hidden Gems In The Country appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Nevertheless, the seaweed problem is worsening in Cancun every year and if you are planning to spend quality time on the beach, then you want to avoid those 6 months of seaweed season.

Join our Seaweed/Sargassum Cancun FB group where locals and tourists post photos and videos from the area

Latest Cancun seaweed updates:

May 5-6: Latest Photos from Cancun Area Beaches (Source: Sargasso Seaweed Updates Riviera Maya FB GROUP)

The situation is slightly better this week amid more cleaning and more nets installed in the areas of Playa del Carmen and Tulum.

Sargassum MAP May 5

April 14: Latest Photos from Cancun Area Beaches (Source: Sargasso Seaweed Updates Riviera Maya FB GROUP)

The current situation is quite unpredictable, as it changes with the wind, and currents and also depends if there is a morning beach clean-up. Here are a few photos from the last 24 hours.

April 2: New wave of seaweed hits the Cancun coast (Photo + Video from Playa del Carmen)

A new wave of sargassum seaweed arrived on the Cancun coast last night. Here is a photo + video from the morning (April 2) in Playa del Carmen by Jeremiah Rygh (Instagram: Explore with Jeremiah):

Sargassum MAP April 2

March 19: A 5,000-Mile-Wide Mass of Seaweed Is Heading for Florida and Mexico

According to NBC News’ Denise Chow, a massive brown seaweed cluster spanning 5,000 miles is approaching North America, posing a potential threat to beaches across Florida, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Although the massive collection of seaweed, referred to as the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt, is not a new occurrence, experts have noted its current size as particularly substantial. Furthermore, the sargassum blanket, which can be found floating across the Atlantic Ocean, is reportedly arriving at coastal regions much earlier than usual this year. Brian Lapointe, an ecologist from Florida Atlantic University, warned that this development “doesn’t bode well for a clean beach summer in 2023,” in an interview with the New York Times’ Livia Albeck-Ripka and Emily Schmall.

Latest Cancun coast seaweed map and photos, March 19, 2023 (Source: FB Red de Monitoreo del Sargazo de Quintana Roo

Playa del Carmen Update

Cancun Update

February 14: As Sargassum Plagues Cancun Coast, These Beaches Remain At Low Levels

Mexican Caribbean has seen an increase in Sargassum seaweed in the past few days. Beaches in the hotel zone in Cancun are still relatively clean and well-maintained but plenty of the beaches on the coast such as Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Akumal or Playacar have already high levels of seaweed.

Here is the list of beaches with the lowest levels:

• Isla Mujeres
• Playa las Perlas
• Playa Langosta
• Holbox Island

January 28: Playa del Carmen sargassum seaweed update (PHOTO & VIDEO)

Playa del Carmen’s beaches are facing an influx of seaweed, however, the cleanliness of the beaches varies depending on location and the presence of organized cleaning services.

The video and photo below are from Coco Beach in Playa del Carmen (January 28 morning).

January 20: Cancun coast received the first wave of seaweed in 2023

On January 14, the first sargassum seaweed of 2023 has been found on beaches in the Riviera Maya, including Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen, earlier than previously predicted.

Latest Cancun coast seaweed map, January 16, 2023 (Source: FB Red de Monitoreo del Sargazo de Quintana Roo

The latest update on seaweed in Cancun (January 2023)

As of January 2023, all Cancun and other beaches in Mexican Caribbean are free of seaweed. The arrival of seaweed starts in March and by the end of April, it spreads all over the area. Therefore, the best time to visit is January and February. (Source: thecancunsun.com)

Sargassum Seaweed 2023 Forecast FAQs

According to studies by the National Autonomous University of Mexico, sargassum was first detected on the coast of Quintana Roo in late 2014 and increased in 2015. By 2018, the volume was concerning, and then it decreased.

However, according to Ojeda, the stats projected today are much higher than at the peak in 2018.

″There is a forecast of about 32 thousand tons. We are working to prevent them from reaching the beaches and if they do, to collect them.”

So far, 9,565 tons have arrived on Mexican beaches. Authorities have collected 9,467 on the coast and 97.7 in the sea.

The government has deployed a series of measures to fight the issue, especially in Quintana Roo, where Cancun is located and which has a higher number of visitors.

The Navy operates 11 seaweed collection vessels in the area, but records show that the amount gathered at sea is decreasing year after year.

In 2020, the Navy eradicated 4% of the sargassum in the water, but 96% was removed from the beaches. Last year, the number dropped to 3% and is now at 1% in 2022. Apparently, bad weather is hampering attempts.

Updates Archives:

Update on seaweed in Cancun (September 29, 2022)

By mid-October, sargassum seaweed season is expected to end on the Mexican Caribbean coast.

Update on seaweed in Cancun (September 16)

A study from the Quintana Roo Department of Navy (Semar) claims that as of this week, Sargassum seaweed would be less prevalent on the beaches in Cancun.

An investigation was carried out in collaboration with the Gulf and Caribbean Oceanographic Institut to ascertain how much sargassum might ultimately enter the Mexican Caribbean.

The lowest amounts of sargassum are frequently found on Isla Mujeres, Puerto Morelos, and Othon P. Blanco, with the largest concentrations being found close to the well-known beaches of Solidaridad, Cozumel, and Tulum.

• The beaches of Isla Mujeres are already seaweed free. (More info)
• Seaweed in the Mexican Caribbean to start decreasing soon, according to data (More info)

Latest images (Source):

Latest sargassum seaweed map, September 16 (Source):

May

Ojeda, who recently called the problem “alarming,” said that authorities are preparing for the largest amount of sargassum observed on Cancun beaches since 2018.

“The situation in the country, as described by the official: in Isla Mujeres, there is zero sargassum; in the municipality of Benito Juárez, on the Chac Mool beach, yesterday 5 percent was detected; in Puerto Morelos, on Pelicanos Beach, 20 percent; in Playa San Martin in Cozumel, 20 percent; in the municipality of Solidaridad, El Recodo beach, 30 percent; in Playa Maya in Tulum  it is where more arrivals of this algae have been reported, 40%; while in Othón P. Blanco, in El Mahahual, 15%.”

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Prospective visitors who have never visited Cabo may be apprehensive about making the trip due to potential security issues in Mexico reported in local news in their hometowns.

​U.S. State Department travel advisories also do not seem to favor Cabo. Upon closer examination, however, it turns out that the State Department classifies travel to Cabo as safe, with a similar level of risk as travel to countries such as the United Kingdom and Spain.

The first misconception about Los Cabos that needs to be cleared up is that the area is part of the state of Baja California Sur.

According to the State Department’s ranking, this Mexican state is currently in the second safest group. The state of Baja California Norte, also known as Baja California, is not the same as Baja California Sur.

The well-known border town of Tijuana is located in the state of Baja California Norte, which is currently at the third-tier warning level. This means that visiting this area could be riskier than visiting Cabo.   

Other Countries In Level 2 Risk

Currently, pretty much every country you might visit on your trip through Europe has a level 2 travel warning.

This includes countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Denmark. In all four cases, the State Department cites the possibility of terrorist attacks as the reason for classifying these countries in that tier.

Unfortunately, security incidents have attracted a lot of media attention in recent years, especially in the UK and France. In light of this, it is reasonable to consider level 2 travel advisories necessary.

When you look at cases like Denmark, it seems strange that all these nations fall into the same category for the same reason.

It has the same classification and is in the second tier of the warning level, but nothing has occurred since 2015 that could be classified as a hate crime or otherwise.

The situation in Spain is a little different because, in addition to the terrorism warning, there is an additional indication of possible civil unrest.

Travelers can rejoice that hostilities in Catalonia have subsided in recent years.

The post U.S. State Department Classifies Los Cabos As Safe Travel Destination For Americans appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

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Related: Is it safe to travel to Cancun right now?

Which areas in Mexico are dangerous for tourists right now?

The US Department has recently warned citizens against traveling to Baja California, Tijuana, Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa and Tamaulipas, due to increasing criminal activity. Americans and other foreign visitors, as well as local hospitality employees, have lost their lives in different attacks in the last few months. 

Mexico Travel Warning Map

Recent Safety Updates:

May 3 – Travel Alert (Spring Break)

The U.S. State Department has issued a travel warning for the spring break. 

The travel advisory for Mexico warns that crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including popular tourist destinations. Travelers are advised to be aware of their surroundings, avoid dangerous areas, and leave dangerous situations immediately.

Unregulated alcohol and counterfeit medication are common and pose significant health risk to visitors. Possession and use of drugs, including medical marijuana, is illegal and can result in lengthy prison sentences. The advisory also warns against sexual assault, as perpetrators target intoxicated or isolated individuals or use drugs to incapacitate victims.

March 20 – Texas urges all Americans against traveling to Mexico due to cartel violence

Weeks after the high-profile kidnapping of four Americans brought the country’s security crisis to the attention of the world, Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador maintained on Monday that Mexico is a safer country than the United States.

“Mexico is safer than the United States. There is no issue with traveling safely through Mexico. That’s something the US citizens also know, just like our fellow Mexicans that live in the US,” he said during his daily morning press briefing.

However, for security reasons, Texas authorities have urged Americans against visiting Mexico over spring break.

Drug cartel violence, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), poses a serious concern to anyone entering Mexico.

February 21 – Playa Del Carmen Increases Police Patrols From 20 to 300 

Another important step in increasing visitor safety is the reinforcement of motorcycle patrols in Playa Del Carmen by local police authorities. There are now nearly 300 patrols a day, up from 20 previously.

The vast majority of crimes committed in Playa del Carmen are relatively minor, and those associated with the more significant organized crime networks in Mexico generally do not target tourists.

The increased police presence is often praised for giving visitors a sense of security and deterring criminal elements from targeting Playa del Carmen.

Important Safety Measures To Keep in Mind

• Inform your traveling companions and family back home of your travel plans. If you become separated from your tour group, transmit your GPS location to a friend. Take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and SMS it to a friend if you’re taking a taxi alone.
• When feasible, use toll highways and avoid driving alone or at night. Outside of the state capital or major cities, police presence and emergency services are extremely restricted in many states.
• When visiting local taverns, nightclubs, and casinos, use extra caution.
• Do not show signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be especially careful when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and help rescuers find you.
• Follow the U.S. Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• Follow the U.S. Embassy on Facebook and Twitter,
• Read Mexico’s country security report.
• Create a contingency plan. Review the travel checklist.

Most Common Tourist Traps / Scams in Mexico To Be Aware Of

Some of the most common scams in Mexico to look out for include: 

Fake ATMs – Normally, you might not give the particular ATM you’re using any thought when you’re withdrawing cash. But because there are so many bogus ATMs in Mexico that steal your card information, you must take this into account.

Using reputable ATMs located in recognized banks is the best way to avoid this scam. It is very likely that a ATM on the street that seems suspicious is one. 

Restaurant Scams – Scams in restaurants are another problem that visitors to Mexico frequently experience. This is a fairly simple trick wherein eateries give out the wrong change or overcharge customers. You may avoid falling for a restaurant scam if you only keep a watchful eye on your tab.

Bird Poop Swindle – The bird poop scam is a variation of all the other “sticky goop.” robberies Basically, you become covered in repulsive stuff like bird poop and a helpful passerby helps you wash it off. However, in reality, this person is robbing you of everything they can take from your pockets.

Move away from the person helping you immediately if you suspect this is happening.

Airport Taxi Upcharge – At airports, there are always a lot of people who want to take advantage of travelers. In Mexico, the airport cab upcharge is a common method.

In this scam, the driver charges an inflated price for transportation from the airport by pushing you into a large van or not using the taximeter. This happens frequently, especially in Mexico City. Always use authorized cabs in Mexico to avoid this.

Quintana Roo Safety App

Quintana Roo Tourist Board has developed the Guest Assist app for free download.

The app provides safety information, legal advice, a complaint line, and coronavirus information as well as access to a 24/7 bilingual call center for visitor assistance.

The app includes links and services for emergencies, extortion and kidnapping, robbery, lost or stolen passports, roadside assistance and even a way to file complaints for local tourism service providers.

“Ongoing security and protection strategy in place, and … is continuing communications with the State Police, alongside federal and local agencies and the private sector to maintain updated security measures to keep a safe and enjoyable environment for residents and visitors.” said the Director of the State Tourism Board.

The US State Department changes national warnings to specific states 

While the State Department normally issues a Level 1 to 4 warning for each country in the world based on concern for the overall safety for travelers, the travel advisory for Mexico changed to specific states on May 2.

The change for Mexico warnings is a result of the State Department moving away from Covid-19 concerns, which is also the focus of warnings from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

“The Department of State’s goal is that U.S. citizens planning travel to Mexico focus on the particular area of ​​​​Mexico to which they will be traveling,” they said.

FAQ

Best places to visit in Mexico

Whether you are interested in spending your vacation at the sunny beach, trying new watersports, or just enjoying the cultural experience, Mexico has something to offer to everyone.

However, before booking your trip, you must consider reviewing the Mexican States that have made it to the orange, yellow, and green epidemiology lists. Aim for the yellow, and Green although orange ones can offer you plenty of fun too. 

Hotspots to visit this summer in Mexico

1. Cancun and the Mayan Riviera

Blessed with sugar-white beaches and countless high-end resorts, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, the island of Cozumel, and beyond compose a magnificent area along the eastern edge of the Yucatán Peninsula. It’s a must-see for international travelers. 

2. Puerto Vallarta

Known as America’s social elite hotspot, Vallarta has become incredibly popular among expats looking for second homes in a sunny, warmer climate. 

3. Cabo San Lucas 

Featuring luxurious spas, golf courses, and beautiful beaches, Cabo San Lucas is one of the luxury hotspot destinations in Mexico. This does not mean that people traveling on a budget will not enjoy it. The city offers all types of activities from swimming to diving, snorkeling, and fishing.

December 9 – Mexico City administers first COVID-19 booster shots

On Tuesday, December 7, the first COVID-19 booster shots became available for residents aged 60 and over in Mexico City. They are AstraZeneca doses and are first administered to residents of the southern Tlalpan neighborhood.

To become eligible, patients must have completed their vaccination at least six months ago regardless of the vaccine makers.

Apart from the capital city, booster shots also rolled out in Jalisco, Chiapas, Oaxaca, Sinaloa, and Yucatán.

Source: Reuters, Mexico News Daily

September 16 – COVID-19 cases drop in Mexico

Last month, Mexico registered some of the highest numbers of daily COVID-19 incidence since the beginning of the pandemic. Luckily, its third wave seems to be easing.

In the past 7 days, there were 11,374 daily new cases, on average. Whereas the week before, it was around 13,200 new infections daily.

On the other hand, on September 15, there were 83,834 active cases reported in Mexico, a 1% decrease compared to Tuesday, September 14.

The same day, Deputy Health Minister Hugo López-Gatell said at a morning press conference that the third wave was on the wane in all 32 states.

He also mentioned that most current cases were mild thanks to the high vaccination rate.

Source: Mexico News Daily, Worldometers

September 1 – Mexico to begin vaccinating youngsters

On September 3, Mexico will start vaccinating the 18 to 29 age group in five of its municipalities.

In Cuautitlán Izcalli, Cuautitlán, Huixquilucan, Metepec, and Zinacantepec, youngsters will be able to get their first dose from September 3 to September 7.

Also, pregnant women will have a chance to get their jab after their first trimester in the above mentioned municipalities.

To prevent people from waiting in front of the vaccination centers, local government officials stressed out again that vaccines are free and that everyone will get the jab in the following weeks.

Source: Infobae

August 18 – Mexico to receive 8.5 million vaccines as COVID figures break record

The United States will send Mexico 8.5 million more doses of COVID-19 vaccines as the delta variant spreads like wildfire across all Mexican states. 

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris informed Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador of the new vaccine batch on call Monday, said Foreign Affairs Secretary Marcelo Ebrard.

On Tuesday, Mexican Federal health authorities reported another 7,172 new Covid-19 as the third wave of the coronavirus gathers pace. 

President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has come under fire for its lack of action to contain the virus. 

Total accumulated cases now come to 3.108 million and deaths, 248,652.

Source: AP

The post MEXICO Travel Advisory: Is It Safe To Visit Right Now? appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Although the State Department has issued warnings, record-breaking numbers of Americans still travel to Mexico.

Quintana Roo anticipated receiving close to 470,000 visitors this weekend for the May long weekend. The State Secretary of Tourism (Sedetur), Bernardo Cueto Riestra, predicted that these numbers would translate into an average hotel occupancy rate of a little over 79 percent.

He explained that Quintana Roo anticipated 469,168 tourists and an occupancy rate of 79.6% for the May 1 long weekend.

The Mexican Caribbean predicted a successful tourist surge, which would give Quintana Roo’s tourist attractions a significant economic boost for the four days that make May 1 a long weekend, he said.

“Tourists who visit the Mexican Caribbean during the long weekend will be able to enjoy the beauty of the beaches and the wide range of tourist activities from water sports, diving, snorkeling, cultural and gastronomic tours,” Quintana Roo has established itself as one of the most comprehensive travel destinations in the nation, as well as one of the most popular in the Caribbean and Latin America, he continued.

In order to ensure the safety of visitors and residents of Quintana Roo, Cueto Riestra also emphasized the significance of continuing to promote responsible tourism under the new administration. Work is done in collaboration with all federal, state, and municipal government authorities.

“We are very happy that the Mexican Caribbean continues to be one of the most popular destinations in Mexico and we are committed to continue working to offer unique and safe experiences for our visitors,” he said.

The post Nearly Half A Million Visited Cancun This Long Weekend Despite Travel Warnings appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Weather.com scientists say large-scale beaching events are “inevitable” this summer in Florida, the Caribbean and Mexico as the stinky kelp grows larger. Officials predict the giant bloom will peak between June and July.

“Given the complexity of its motion, growth, and decay, it is not possible to forecast the timing of beaching,” a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration spokesperson said. “However, given the size and number of the current Sargassum patches, there is a strong chance that Sargassum carried by the Florida Current may reach the Florida coast despite wind and wave conditions.”

Update from Delray Beach, FL

The Quintana Roo Sargassum Monitoring Network responded to the USF investigation, stating that the heaviest landfall this summer was expected to weigh 650,000 tons and have an impact on the beaches in Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, Cancun, Mahahual, and Xcalak.

Update from Puerto Morelos, Mexico

Esteban Amaro, the network’s director, told Reportur.com that he thinks only 5% will reach Mexican beaches, while the other 90% will “continue on its way to the Sargasso Sea”.

As sargassum seaweed rots, it begins to release hydrogen sulfide, which can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat as well as smell like rotten eggs. It is strongly recommended that visitors do not touch or swim near the seaweed.

The installation of 9,050 meters (about 29,691 feet) of anti-sargassum barriers, including 1,850 meters in Othon P. Blanco (Chetumal and Mahahual), 2,400 meters in Puerto Morelos, 2,500 meters in Solidaridad (Playa del Carmen and Puerto Aventuras), and 2,300 meters in Tulum, was announced by the Mexican Secretary of the Navy in March.

The post Florida, Mexico, And Caribbean Expecting Record-Breaking Sargassum Seaweed Arrival This Season appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.