Travel in Mexico

I recently had the opportunity to talk to someone who had just returned from a Mexican Riviera cruise on the same ship as the one my group is booked on in November of this year. I was eager to hear about her experience because of recent news about violence associated with the drug cartels. She told me that there they felt very safe and secure at every port, stating, "the ports stops are very secure, they want the tourists there and made it clear to us that we were protected....if there are any reasons to be concerned, they are not in the cities where the cruise ships dock."

I would never think to offer a tour if I thought there would be any reason for concern, but like you I understand the need for caution and would not want you to join my Mexican Riviera cruise if you feel the least bit concerned.

The US goverment issued a security warning to Americans in February of 2009 which stated that we should off country roads at night, and not to wear flashy jewelry or carry big bags in central Mexico locations, this is true for a lot of the world.

It is important to note, according to news agencies, the drug cartel problems are in central Mexico, not in the Mexican Caribbean or Riviera areas. Mexican authorities pay close attention to security in tourist areas, as my friend said, they want the tourists there - it is vital to their economy.

A recent news article states: "There were over 5,589,000 cruise ship visitors to Mexico from February 2008 to February 2009....There have been no cruise ship related incidents in Mexico related to drug cartels...no cruise ship passenger has fallen victim to cartel kidnappings or killings or muggings."

I am certainly not one to want to spread fear, but this is an informed decision you must make for yourself - however, considering the way of the world, who knows what next year might bring? As a concession to you, if you want to join my Mexican Riviera cruise this year but have concern over your safety - then let me know, I will give you a $250 credit toward any cruise or tour next year.