Yesterday, the Department of State revised its travel advisory for U.S. citizens planning on traveling to Mexico, and while reminding the public that "millions" of Americans safely visit Mexico every year, the agency also reminds everyone that some scary stuff happens in Mexico.
Of course, the safety level varies by state and city -- Ciudad Juarez still isn't the ideal option for a vacation -- but officials are even urging U.S. citizens be cautious in places like Rocky Point.
See also:
-State Department Reminder: Traveling to Mexico Can Be Scary
-Fear Is Killing Tourism in Rocky Point, Mexico
-Rocky Point Warning Cites Cartel Violence of Past Year
-Six Killed, Including One Police Officer, in Rocky Point Shootout
As for Rocky Point, or Puerto Peñasco -- the popular vacation spot for Americans, which is a several-hour drive from the Valley -- the State Department advisory says U.S. citizens should "exercise caution" when visiting.
It was just a year-and-a-half ago that the State Department's advisory first mentioned Rocky Point, citing cartel violence in the area. The State Department hasn't reported any U.S. citizens being caught up in this violence since that announcement, but there has still been violence in the area. For example, six people were killed in a shootout -- including one policeman -- in a shooting in the middle of the day in July.
"U.S. citizens in Puerto Peñasco are encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate steps to bolster their personal security following a July 2012 mid-day gun battle between TCO members and increases in reported robberies and assaults against U.S. citizens," the State Department advisory says.
As a whole, the advisory offers advice of not driving in certain areas at night, not flashing signs of wealth in certain areas, and generally trying to avoid being kidnapped, robbed, or carjacked.
So, how 'bout it? Vacation to Mexico (anywhere, really)?
Cast your vote below?
