Although Mexican authorities have declared that Jalisco, including areas like Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara, are safe from criminal activity, tourists still have questions.
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Namely, is it safe for Americans to visit Mexico in the coming months? While cartel violence has been quelled, some have pointed out that the power vacuum left by the murder of El Mencho, head of a powerful cartel, could lead to more incidents.
Manny Fernandez, VP of Global Operations at FocusPoint International, has safety advice for Americans. FocusPoint International is a US-based corporation that employs officers who consult on medical, security, and crisis response operations on five continents. In short, they know about staying safe when traveling.
Fernandez also has over twenty years of experience as a law enforcement officer and as a Special Agent with the United States Secret Service. If you’re on the fence about canceling your trip to Mexico or planning one in the future, check out his advice for staying safe.
Security expert Manny Fernandez weighs in on safety in Mexico
According to Fernandez, recent security activity in Puerto Vallarta doesn’t mean you should cancel plans, but it does mean you should be more mindful about how you visit.
According to Fernandez, “Periods following major security operations can bring short-term volatility, including localized transportation interruptions or isolated retaliatory incidents. Most impacts remain targeted and concentrated rather than directed at tourists, but flexibility and preparation are essential.”
He recommends sticking to tourist zones and staying at your hotel or resort at night, in addition to avoiding large crowds and roadblocks. Fernandez goes on, “Use reputable transportation arranged through your hotel or vetted providers, and avoid driving in unfamiliar or rural areas during periods of heightened security activity.”
Fernandez also recommends signing up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, aka STEP. In addition to using the tips listed above, Fernandez also points out that you can sign up for services that provide crisis response.
FocusPoint International has an affiliate via CAP Tripside Assistance, which provides emergency crisis response for travelers, plus medical benefits, similar to companies like MedJet.
