Mexico: Visitors are advised to exercise high degree of caution due to increase of violence

More than 1.5 million Canadians travel to Mexico each year, the vast majority of them without incident. However, Canadians should exercise a high degree of caution, especially in those parts of the country experiencing a deteriorating security situation. Most major tourist areas have not been affected by the extreme levels of violence in the northern region. It is highly advisable to travel to Mexico by air in order to avoid land border crossings through potentially dangerous regions. Avoid road travel at night between cities throughout the country. High levels of criminal activity, as well as occasional demonstrations and protests, remain a concern throughout the country. For these reasons, Canadians are strongly advised to sign up with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service if travelling to or residing in Mexico.Due to high levels of organized crime and urban violence, Canadians should exercise extreme caution in the states of Guerrero (including Acapulco), Nayarit, Michoacán and Veracruz. The coastal area of Southern Nayarit (from Nuevo Vallarta to La Peñita de Jaltemba), a popular destination among Canadians, remains relatively safe. However, travel outside the tourist area requires extra precaution. Read article