The U.S. State Department updated its travel advisory for Mexico on Tuesday, Aug. 12, urging American travelers to “exercise increased caution” when visiting the popular Caribbean destination.
The North American country is issued a Level 2 designation “due to terrorism, crime and kidnapping,” with a travel advisory summary to reflect those risks.
“Many violent crimes take place in Mexico. They include homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery,” the updated summary states. “There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mexico.”
Under the update, the U.S. is advising travelers to cooperate if stopped at a road checkpoint, and risk being hurt or killed if they try to flee, push back on, or ignore instructions. They should also avoid traveling after dark or alone, especially in remote areas.
It warns that if travelers get in trouble, U.S. government assistance and emergency services are limited in many parts of Mexico, especially those that are remote, rural or high-risk.
Although Mexico has long been a popular vacation spot for Americans, it’s seen a string of warnings by the U.S. government this year. In March, the U.S. Embassy in Mexico posted a warning for those visiting spring break hotspots, including Cancun and Puerto Penasco. Most recently, in June, it cautioned travelers of kidnappings tied to dating apps.
