Americans Flocked to Cancún for Vacation. Now They’re Thinking Twice.
Cancún has long been a popular vacation destination for Americans, drawn by its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lively nightlife. But in recent years, the city has been plagued by violence, with tourists being targeted in shootings, robberies, and kidnappings. As a result, many Americans are now thinking twice about traveling to Cancún.
In 2018, there were 165 homicides in Cancún, a 60% increase from the previous year. The majority of these homicides were drug-related, but tourists have also been caught in the crossfire. In January 2019, a Canadian couple was killed in a shooting at a nightclub. In April 2019, an American woman was kidnapped and held for ransom.
Is Cancún Safe for Tourists?
The Mexican government has taken steps to improve security in Cancún, but it is still not considered to be a safe city. The U.S. State Department has issued a travel warning for Cancún, advising Americans to exercise increased caution. The warning states that “violent crime, including homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, carjacking, and sexual assault, is common in Cancún.” The warning also notes that “U.S. citizens have been victims of violent crime, including sexual assault, while staying at all-inclusive resorts in Cancún.”
Despite the travel warning, many Americans continue to visit Cancún. The city is still a popular destination for spring break and summer vacations. However, tourists should be aware of the risks and take precautions to stay safe.
Tips for Staying Safe in Cancún
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- Stay in a reputable hotel or resort.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
- Don’t carry large amounts of cash or jewelry.
- Don’t get drunk or high.
- Report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
Expert Advice
In addition to the tips above, here is some expert advice for staying safe in Cancún:
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- “Don’t go out alone at night, especially if you’re a woman,” says Alex Aleman, a former Mexican police officer who now works as a security consultant.
- “Be aware of your surroundings and trust your gut,” says Sharon Schweitzer, an international etiquette expert.
- “If you see something suspicious, report it to the authorities,” says James Johnson, a former FBI agent who now works as a security consultant.
FAQ on Cancún Safety
Q: Is Cancún safe for tourists?
A: Cancún is not considered to be a safe city. Violent crime, including homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, carjacking, and sexual assault, is common.
Q: What are some tips for staying safe in Cancún?
A: Stay in a reputable hotel or resort, be aware of your surroundings, don’t carry large amounts of cash or jewelry, don’t get drunk or high, and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
Q: What should I do if I am a victim of a crime in Cancún?
A: If you are a victim of a crime in Cancún, you should immediately report it to the authorities. You should also contact your embassy or consulate for assistance.
Conclusion
Cancún can be a beautiful and enjoyable vacation destination, but it is important to be aware of the risks and take precautions to stay safe. By following the tips and advice in this article, you can help to reduce your risk of becoming a victim of crime.
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