Foreign Office issues travel warnings for Mexican tourist spots

Holidaymakers have been urged to avoid 11 destinations in Mexico amid heightened safety risks. British tourists flying abroad to the North American holiday hotspot have been warned over visiting certain locations as safety and security risks rise.

The affected destinations include Baja California, Chiapas and Chihuahua as well as Colima and Guerrero. Jalisco, Michoacan and Sinaloa complete the list, alongside Tamaulipas and Zacatecas. People are advised to avoid all but essential travel in these areas.

The warning comes after two Australian brothers and their American friend were killed during a surfing trip in the Baja California peninsula, reports BirminghamLive.

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The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) explained: “Take care when withdrawing money from ATMS or exchanging money at an exchange shop (bureau de change). It’s generally safer to use ATMs during daylight hours and inside shops or malls.

“People withdrawing money from airport money exchange shops and ATMs in various locations have later been targeted by criminals. Avoid withdrawing large amounts of money and be careful of your surroundings and who is around you while you are using the ATM.

“You should remain vigilant at all times. Pickpocketing and theft are common, including on public transport. Avoid wearing expensive clothing, jewellery or watches.

“Limit the amount of cash or credit/debit cards you carry with you. Watch your briefcases and luggage, even in apparently secure places like the lobby of your hotel.”

According to the British Embassy in Mexico, there were about 15,000 British citizens living in Mexico. Last year, British citizens spent a staggering £345 million while on holiday in Mexico.

In 2023, Brits made an eye-watering 86.2 million trips overseas, up 21 percent from the 71.8 million visits made by Brits in 2022. This is still slightly less than the peak number of visits made before the Covid 19 pandemic hit a few years ago in 2019, which was 93.1 million.