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The government of Mexico is deploying over 6000 soldiers to Cancun on Easter weekend to help with the massive influx of tourists. Easter weekend in Cancun is expected to sell out completely and with a recent uptick in crime, the government is taking this step to keep tourists safe.
In the past six months, the state of Quintana Roo has been facing gang shootings that at times have pilled into the tourists zones of Cancun.. The majority of these crimes do not directly affect tourists but there have been a few incidents that have. For example, in November 2021, two gangs engaged in a shootout on a beach near Puerto Morelos, causing tourists at the Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancún hotel to rush into the lobby and find shelter. While no tourists were killed it was a stark reminder that gun violence can break out even at resorts.
After a few isolated incidents happened in tourism areas, the state and federal government has taken strong action including the use of military soldiers.
For the government, it’s a difficult task to fortify these resorts and keep the feeling of a relaxing beach atmosphere at the same time. About a month ago, images began to surface of Military police walking down the beach as tourists sunbathed. This image encapsulated the balancing act that Mexico has to contend with.
A Multi Facetted Problem
Unfortunately, like most problems, there is no clear solution to the crime problem in tourist areas and in Mexico abroad. Óscar Montes de Oca is the prosecutor for the state of Quintana Roo, he stated: “Unfortunately people come to consume drugs and alcohol, They come to do things they wouldn’t do at home. This demand creates a supply and that generates all the conflict.” Basically what he’s saying is, the tourist themselves are creating the demand for drugs in resort areas, meaning the gangs are now operating in resort areas.
The government is also taking steps to mitigate this problem. Travelers who stay in hotels in Cancun and the surrounding area will now need to sign an acknowledgment form that they understand the drug laws of the country. The punishment for not following these laws can be really strict, including long prison sentences and fines.
Recently, authorities discovered massage and jet ski tents used for drug trafficking and dismantled those involved. These tents were, according to police statements, targeting tourists from the United States, Canada, and Germany.
Coronavirus
At the moment, there is no spike in COVID cases in Cancun. Governor Carlos Joaquín reassured visitors that the Quintana Roo region will remain in the green zone during the following weeks and the strategies to guarantee visitors’ safety and clean the beaches have been successful. Cancun recently dropped its mandatory outdoor mask mandate, and, fortunately, good conditions are projected in the future. The country is basically back to its pre-pandemic norms.
Mexico currently has no covid restrictions for entry. Entering the country is a breeze, with no pre-departure covid test required. In fact, it’s one of a growing list of countries in the world without any covid related entry requirements.
It’s nice to see that the government is recognizing some of the problems that are beginning to creep into its tourism industry. More than recognition, they are taking actions that will change tourism in Mexico for the foreseeable future and make tourists feel safe on their beautiful beaches.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Michelle
Saturday 23rd of April 2022
We have been about once a month for short stays since the pandemic started. Last being in March, and I’m headed back next week. I have never felt unsafe except for when the Cancun police ( the fat guys without guns, three to a car) pulled us over a few years back to extort cash from us. They even made us follow them to an ATM that gave out USD, while they parked in an adjacent lot. Other than that, we watch the federal officers patrol the beach in head to toe dark gear walking or rising quads. I’ve handed them bottles of water, because it’s hot when you’re not wearing clothing (other than swimsuits).
The people there are warm and hard working. They don’t want crime or a reputation for being crime ridden.
But, I have been to a resort called the Flamingo, when I complained about a drunk guy who threatened me, the security there told me I shouldn’t be on my balcony (for a swim up room at 7pm) and go I side and lock the patio door! That’s the exception. Enjoy Cancun, just use common sense and be aware or surroundings like any major city or tourist destination
Brian
Friday 22nd of April 2022
They kept the country open because the police always need a fresh supply of victims to rob otherwise they'd focus their criminal activities on the locals which they do regardless. Also trying to lay all the blame for their drug problems and violence on tourists is the biggest load of BS since "two weeks to flatten the curve". Don't travel there, don't sign the form and don't let these con artists play you like a fool.
Rachel
Saturday 16th of April 2022
This reminds me of Thailand in that the tourists need to be kept safe from themselves due to excessive alcohol consumption. We've been traveling north to south through Mexico since Feb 1st avoiding tourist areas. Safety is a not a concern. Not even a tiny bit.
Christian
Friday 15th of April 2022
I’ve heard that immigration gives you 180 days at all time now. Still needs to be verified if it is true.
Kashlee Kucheran
Friday 15th of April 2022
No, there are still many people getting less. We hear and see the reports of it happening every day.
Christian
Thursday 14th of April 2022
While there has been occasional shootings here and there, there are constant robbing by the police. To keep tourists safe, they need to ban the police and give all tourists their deserved 180 days upon entry without exception. For those overstaying their visa, there needs to be a strict procedure to follow, in order to protect tourists from abuse on a case by case basis.
Brian
Friday 22nd of April 2022
@Christian, I don't know anything about the issue with visas but I know for a fact the police are robbing people at an alarming rate in Cancun. If they see you walking after dark they'll shake you down on the street no problem. Being with your wife or girlfriend wont stop them either.