(MENAFN) The Texas Department of Public Safety has issued a warning to Americans, advising them not to travel to Mexico during spring break. The department has highlighted the ongoing violence and safety threats in the country, and notes that cartel activity represents a significant risk to travelers. This advisory follows the recent kidnapping of four Americans in Tamaulipas, a Mexican state, which is currently under a "Level 4: Do Not Travel" advisory from the State Department.
According to Steven McCraw, the director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, the agency has a responsibility to inform the public of travel risks and threats. Given the current volatile situation and the violence caused by cartel activity in Mexico, they are urging people to avoid travel to the country at this time. In addition to Tamaulipas, the State Department has issued a Level 4 advisory for Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, and Zacatecas. There are also seven states under the "Level 3: Reconsider Travel" advisory.
The State Department's advisory warns of the widespread and common violent crimes in Mexico, such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery. They also note that the US government has limited capacity to provide emergency services to citizens in many parts of the country, as travel by government employees to certain areas is either prohibited or restricted. In several states, emergency services are limited outside of the state capital or major cities.
Despite the risks, Mexico remains a popular destination for spring break travel, particularly for beach vacations. According to AAA, Cancun, Riviera Maya, and Mexico City are the most popular areas for spring break travelers. However, these areas are under the State Department's "Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To" advisory.
Overall, authorities are urging travelers to prioritize their safety and consider the risks before deciding to travel to Mexico during spring break.
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