According to G. Michael Brown, a U.S. Department of Commerce spokesman, about 19.5 million people entered Mexico in 2007 and spent $10.3 billion. More American tourists travel to Mexico than to any other country, and for many Americans its inexpensive prices and ease of access have made it a popular destination. Airfare to Mexico is inexpensive and many of the resorts offer affordable all-inclusive packages, which allow travelers on a budget to enjoy an array of amenities.
While Mexico has periodically weathered tourism slumps because of hurricanes or tropical storms, the surge in violence throughout Mexico, as well as the outbreak of the H1N1 virus in March 2009 has caused the tourism industry in Mexico to struggle. According to a June 2009 BBC World News article on the H1N1's impact on Mexican tourism, the virus and its consequences created even more difficulties for the Mexican tourist industry that represents 8 percent of the country's gross national product and employs 2 million people. Despite the good deals offered by many hotels and resorts, many Americans are trying to decide if it is safe to plan a Mexican vacation.
The U.S. Department of State's website reports that the worst of the drug violence in Mexico is centered in its northern states and in the U.S./Mexico border towns such as Tijuana, Nogales and Ciudad Juarez, and they recommend that travelers avoid non-essential travel to many of these areas. Upon the issuance of these travel warnings, the Mexican Tourism Board sought to alleviate tourists' fears by reassuring them that the beach resort areas such as Cancun, Cozumel, Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos remain safe from drug violence and open to tourism.
In order to limit potential trouble when traveling to Mexico, the U.S. Department of State urges travelers to exercise common sense precautions. Tourists should leave their money and valuables at their lodging whenever possible and avoid displaying large sums of cash. Travelers should be vigilant of their surroundings at all times and be cautious when using ATM machines. Women are often especially vulnerable to crime and should avoid walking alone late at night.
The U.S. Department of State does not currently warn against tourist travel to Mexico, but does have several advisories recommending caution. According to travel.state.gov, the U.S. consular affairs website, "While millions of U.S. citizens safely visit Mexico each year (including tens of thousands who cross the land border every day for study, tourism or business), violence in the country has increased. It is imperative that travelers understand the risks of travel to Mexico, how best to avoid dangerous situations, and who to contact if one becomes a crime victim. Common-sense precautions such as visiting only legitimate business and tourist areas during daylight hours, and avoiding areas where prostitution and drug dealing might occur, can help ensure that travel to Mexico is safe and enjoyable."
