Audio By Carbonatix
Following this week’s New Times feature about Rocky Point, Mexico’s tourism industry (which can be read here) and New Times’ own (less-restricting) guide to travel in Mexico, which can be read here, the Arizona Department of Public Safety issued a travel warning for people going to Mexico for spring break.
The DPS says it’s all right for Americans to travel to Mexico, and it can be safe — as long as you don’t have any fun.
For example, the DPS suggests travelers “not engage in illicit activity” while in Mexico, and to “maintain control. Monitor your alcohol intake.”
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Probably some good advice, but what a bummer — for most spring breakers, “monitoring” their intake of booze usually means seeing how much they can drink before staggering to a bar.
The DPS cites a September warning from the U.S. State Department, which is as follows:
“Resort areas and tourist destinations in Mexico do not see the levels of drug-related violence and crime reported in the border region and in areas along major drug trafficking routes. Nevertheless, crime and violence are serious problems. While most victims of violence are Mexican citizens associated with criminal activity, the security situation poses serious risks for U.S. citizens as well.
It is imperative that U.S. citizens understand the risks involved in travel to Mexico, how best to avoid dangerous situations, and who to contact if one becomes a victim of crime or violence. Common-sense precautions such as visiting only legitimate business and tourist areas during daylight hours, and avoiding areas where criminal activity might occur, can help ensure that travel to Mexico is safe and enjoyable.”
The DPS echoes some of the precautions outlined in New Times’ Mexican travel guide, and adds some of its own nanny-state-ish warnings.
See the DPS’ full warning here.
