Here's some travel advice to keep you informed and safe when it comes
to travel to Mexico...
Terrorism
Terrorism is a threat throughout the world. You can find more information about this threat in our Travel Advisories.
Civil Unrest/Political Tension
We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in rural areas and south-eastern jungle regions of the state of Chiapas due to the risk of violence between armed rebels and civilian groups present in the region. Violent criminal gangs also operate in the area, particularly near the border with neighbouring Guatemala. There is often no effective law enforcement or police protection present in the region.
While political tensions in the southern states of Guerrero and Oaxaca have diminished in recent months, sporadic acts of politically motivated violence occur.
The Mexican constitution expressly prohibits political activity by foreign nationals while they are in Mexico. This includes participation in protests or demonstrations. Such activity may result in detention or expulsion from Mexico for up to 10 years. You should in any case avoid all protests and demonstrations in Mexico as they have the potential to turn violent.
Crime
We advise you to exercise caution and monitor developments that might affect your safety in Mexico because of the risk of criminal activity. Pay close attention to your personal security and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks.
Violent crime, including sexual assault, armed robbery and kidnapping occurs in popular tourist destinations, including beach resorts. There have been reports of sexual assault and other serious crimes committed by individuals presenting themselves as police officers. Security risks increase after dark.
Crime, including sexual assault and robbery has occurred after travellers have accepted 'spiked' food or drink. There have also been incidents of assault and robbery by individuals presenting themselves as police officers.
Incidents of 'express kidnappings' where individuals are forced to withdraw funds from ATMs to secure their release have occurred.
Crime levels on inter-city buses and when travelling on highways are very high.
Petty crime, predominantly pick-pocketing, is prevalent at tourist destinations, airports, bus stations and on the metro in Mexico City.
Regions bordering the United States: Violent crime, often related to the illegal drug trade, occurs in the regions bordering the United States, including the cities of Nuevo Laredo, Tijuana, Cuidad Juarez, Nuevo Laredo, Nogales, Reynosa and Matamoros. Although foreign travellers are not generally targeted, bystanders are at risk.
Local Travel
In October 2005, Hurricane Wilma caused extensive damage to parts of the east coast and the Yucatan Peninsula, in particular the resorts of Cancun and Cozumel. Hurricane Stan which occurred shortly after caused considerable damage to infrastructure in the state of Chiapas. If you intend to travel to these areas, you should seek information from local tour operators and hotels on the current condition of infrastructure and facilities.
The safety standards you might expect of tour operators are not always met, especially when undertaking adventure sports. Sufficient life jackets for boats, rafts and kayaks may not be provided.
Natural Disasters
Mexico is in an active seismic zone and is subject to earthquakes and volcanic activity. During the wet season, from June to November, some areas, including Mexico City, are subject to flash flooding. Hurricane season is usually from June to November. Information on natural disasters can be obtained from the Humanitarian Early Warning Service. If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of local authorities.
Local Law and Customs
Travellers are reminded that when overseas, they are subject to local laws. Local
laws and legal processes can be very different from those at home. A violation
of local laws may result in a jail sentence, served in a local prison. Consular
assistance cannot override local law, even where local laws may appear harsh or
unjust by your standards.
Penalties for drug offences are severe and include lengthy prison sentences local jails.
People who rent or borrow cars in Mexico are responsible for any illegal items found in those vehicles, even if they were unaware of their presence.
You can be arrested for possession of Mexican archaeological artefacts.
Entry and Exit Requirements
Visa conditions change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Mexico for the most up to date information.
Children (under 18), regardless of their nationality, travelling with one parent may require presentation of notarised, written consent of the non-travelling parent, to enter Mexico.
If you are travelling to Mexico through the United States of America (USA), including transiting in Honolulu or other USA points of entry, you must meet USA entry/transit requirements. You should check your visa needs well in advance of travel with the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. See also our travel advice for the USA.
Health Issues
Island resorts may lack comprehensive medical facilities.
Doctors and hospitals often require cash payment prior to providing services, including for emergency care.
Your doctor or travel clinic is the best source of information about immunisations
and disease outbreaks overseas. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides useful
tips for staying healthy while travelling overseas.
We strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance that will cover any overseas medical costs, before you depart. Confirm that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in your policy. Remember, if you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel.
Source: Australian Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade
|
|
