Mexico asks the US to reconsider its travel warnings

The Mexican minister for tourism has urged the US to reconsider some of its travel advisories for the country. In a meeting with state representatives, Miguel Torruco argued that the US’ advice that citizens should avoid visiting certain areas is too broad and risks damaging the tourist industry in the regions.

Is Mexico a risk for tourists?

The advisory currently states that “violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico” before detailing six states Americans should not visit, seven they should reconsider traveling to, and seventeen they should exercise increased caution when visiting.

Torruco believes the classification lacks context, and the US should be specifying that much of the violence takes place miles from any tourist areas.

Cancun is technically one of the most dangerous cities in the world

It’s a tough decision for the US to make. While there is validity to Torruco’s argument, violence has escalated in Mexico in recent years. Even Quintana Roo, where Cancun and Tulum are located, has seen its violent crime rates soar. Cancun’s homicide rate is high enough to place it as the sixth most dangerous city in the world this year.

It is important to know that the vast majority of the violence is not aimed at tourists. The escalation has seen some tragic cases, usually stray bullets or otherwise, but it is still very rare. These cities are in an incredible state of flux, where the luxurious and peaceful all-inclusives are just a mile or two from truly shocking violence.