A lot of people go to Playa del Carmen and Tulum, but on the Yucatan Peninsula there are these two beautiful colonial cities that are so welcoming, colorful, and full of traditions that travelers wont regret visiting them, he says. Although it does attract a large number of tourists each year, Mazatlan preserves much of its natural arts and culture. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. 4. Even though it is a popular tourist destination, its not as touristy as somewhere like Cancun for instance. A spate of incidents, including a kidnapping and the death of two Americans near the border, have prompted travel warnings from the U.S. government. Confused? Admittedly, you can hardly walk a block without seeing a mezcaleria (bar selling mezcal) or shop selling the stuff in the city center. Despite its stigma and gritty past, the national capital of Mexico is incredibly safe afactthats particularly remarkable when you think for a moment that it happens to be one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world (not to mention the most densely populated city in North America). Huatulco is quite a small city, but it is packed with incredible beaches and a vibrant downtown. Strangely enough, although the Mexican Pacific Coast's state's travel advisory made exceptions of its 'Do Not Travel' advisory, Acapulco did not make the cut. He's passing his love of travel on to the next generation; his 10-year-old son has flown some 200,000 miles already. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-74770397', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car, we will need a temporary import for the car. La Paz. That is a sharp rise from the 1,700 migrants that Border Patrol agents encountered in the first two weeks of April, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials. Yet, despite its not-so-distant gangland past, Ciudad Juarez, believe it or not, currently has no restrictions, except for travel to the areas southeast of Boulevard Independencia and the Valle de Juarez region. Little towns are scattered all along the coast, and one, Playa del Carmen, has matured into a fully-fledged city. Re: Safest border Town in Mexico to go to from Texas. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. In this case, try not to wear fancy clothing or flash money around that will only attract unwanted attention. Produced by Will Reid and Michael Simon Johnson. The attack spurred questions on whether it's safe to travel to Mexican border cities and towns, even in Sonora, which is more than 1,000 miles from where the killings took place. Laredo is listed as No. The places where thousands cross the US-Mexico border on foot - CNN As one of the most sketchy states in the country, we might want to avoid stepping foot in Sinaloa, northern Mexico. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is situated almost right in the middle of Mexico and offers cobblestone streets, Spanish colonial churches, and plenty of great restaurants. Its part of the fun of travel a big part! Its hard to believe that this is the same part of the world that is also the scene of the Great Monarch butterfly migration, when the most delicate creatures gather in the millions from all over the world into Michoacns very own forests. With its rich culture and breathtaking beauty, its no surprise so many tourists keep coming back here. The Laredo bridges get very busy on the weekends, as you might imagine. You simply need to know where to go and where to avoid. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-74777759', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car load of stuff. A slight addition to #3's post, since TX toll roads have no casetas like in Mexico, they take pictures of your license plates if you don't have a TXtag and then send the bill to the address listed on your registration. Some areas of Mexico have increased risk of crime and kidnapping. The group was found Thursday morning in Sonoyta, a border town where there are many safe houses that coyotes usually use to cross . Over the past 50 years, San Miguel de Allende has evolved into a hub for tourists wanting to experience the music, food, and arts of truelocal culture. The turnoff to Saltillo is easy to miss in Monterrey. Read our blog entitled Who Needs a Temporary Importation Permit for more information. Safety Tips for Mexican Border Towns Border towns rely on tourism dollars so they try to keep tourists safe. Its hard to choose a favourite place in Mexico. Another fun fact, although, Cholula was once the most important city in the Aztec Empire and one ofthe majorpilgrimage destinations in the central highlands, the city is now a hotbed oflucha libre. Safest Cities in Mexico: Safe Places to Visit (2023) 3 in the 2022 Safest Cities in America survey out this week by WalletHub. Although it still attracts many vacationers today, thedanger is rising in Acapulco. Tijuana is a border city in Mexico, located just south of California. Its all about being in the wrong place at the wrong time., Mr. de Hail recommends researching the resort and news from the area youre visiting. But most visitors stay in McAllen but go about 15 miles east from McAllen and cross into Mexico at a small town called Progreso. Any help would be appreciated. 5. Safest border Town in Mexico to go to from Texas - Tripadvisor San Miguel de Allende oozes old Mexico charm from the cobblestone streets, colonial-era buildings, and the neo-Gothic steeples that are high above the skyline. The border bridge between Brownsville, Texas, and the city of Matamoros, in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas. The word Chihuahua usually conjures up images of the cute little dog we used to see Paris Hilton carrying around in one of her Louis Vuittons. But between San Luis Potosi and Saltillo, the only decent hotels to be found are in Matehuala. If thats not enough to put us off booking a trip to this state, we dont know what is. Its brimming with refurbished museums and theatres as well as great things to see like Old Mazatlan, Malecon and Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. The cartels focus of violence is in the countryside; Puerto Vallarta and the beaches to its north, including the exclusive peninsula of Punta Mita and the surfers hangout of Sayulita, are all booming and, despite drug sales, the cartels control seems to limit open conflict. Antelope Wells-El Berrendo State Road 81, Antelope Wells, New Mexico - Carretera El Berrendo-Janos, El Berrendo, Chihuahua. Where to Stay: For an indulgent resort experience you cant do much better than Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa, where amenities include multiple swimming pools and tennis courts, yoga classes, watersports, and seven restaurants. Mexico-California Border Towns Tijuana Popular with American debauchees during the Prohibition era, and recently blighted by drug-cartel violence, Tijuana, like a lot of Mexican border towns, has been roundly used and abused. The Matamoros incident shows how violence can flare up in places that have been quiet recently. The nearby Sanctuary of Atotonilco, less than 10 miles away, is also a World Heritage Site and an important pilgrimage site for penitent Mexicans and tourists alike. Thank you for all the information! But dont throw the mezcal out with the tequila just yet. It is a quiet and family-friendly city located right on the Mexican border deep in South Texas. SAN ANTONIO (KTSA News) There has been a lot of political chatter about whether cities on the U.S.-Mexico border are actually "safe" or "among the safest in the nation." . Since certain newsworthy events occurred in 2014, Guerrero has long been a well-known do-not-travel state. In case you want to change your travel plans,itcurrently happens to be a safe bet, with no travel restrictions. He wrote for IndependentTraveler.com for more than 20 years, producing hundreds of columns on travel and offering his expertise on radio and television. It is also home to one of Mexicos biggest national parks, Cumbres de Monterrey. Today, its just as busy at the sidewalk cafes and Malecon as it was back then. Located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, and home to some of the most visited archeological sites, like the incredible Templo Dios del Viento (God of Winds Temple) off the Yucatan coast, Tulum does attract its fair share of tourists (over 2.2 million in last year alone). The U.S. government has limited ability to provide . Situated on the Texan border between the US and Mexico, Tamaulipas is a state with many beautiful lakes and fishing opportunities. With its multi-hued crystalline freshwater lake, the second largest in all of Mexico, Bacalar Lake, also known as the Lake of Seven Colors, stretches out for over 40 kms. With recent events transpiring between the United States and Mexico, Tijuana is not a spot you'd want to venture off to right now. All of these cells are operating not only (though mainly) in the metropolitan area of Guadalajara and its municipalities, but also throughout the state. Ed Hewitt started traveling with his family at the age of 10 and has since visited dozens of countries on six continents. Where do I find information about Kino Bay / Bahia Kino? As for Palomas and the Nuevo Casas Grandes/Paquime region, as well as Ojinaga, simply be sure you use American Highway, 67 and 11 respectively. 1. And while both the city and the state by the same name are safe to travel to with no restrictions, youll want to take it easy like any traveler should when drinking in a foreign country. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Did this page help you discover some safe cities in Mexico to visit? Coolidge (pop. Arizona Border Town: What is it like to live by and visit Naco, Mexico #1 has immigration. Life. Crime in U.S. border cities remains low even though sister cities in Mexico are among the most dangerous in North America because of cartel violence. A veritable paradise for those who love to get around by bicycle, Tulums rustic, back-to-nature style offers visitors a decidedly different type of vacation experience. Texas-Mexico border crossings Bridge #2 has customs/immigration. As well, it comes complete with well-preserved fortifications and roving night guards. I'm a local from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? They rescue 63 kidnapped migrants in a Mexican town on the US border Now, hows that for a little perspective? My recollection is that the parking is easier @ Colombia and it's nowhere near as busy; that's where we always cross when we've got a (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Where to Stay: In Merida, consider snagging a poolside room at the Luz En Yucatan. The Lincoln Bridge is actually #2, with no immigration. Would it be better and dagger to do the Lincoln bridge? Not only are some areas of Mexico indeed seeing the worst homicidefigures in decades, but the country recorded its most violent year on record last year, ultimately pointing to an alarming rise in cartel activity. The U.S. State Department provides state-by-state information about travel risks in Mexico. It has a level three travel advisory, which basically means we should steer clear if we have a brain. See, its not just gangs that are the central point ofdodginess here in the country. He is now a regular contributor to SmarterTravel. In case anyones itching to see Mexico and experience all its glory, weve found the top 10 places to visit and also the 10 places we shouldnt step foot in. It's just a short hours drive away, makingtourists opt to stay far longer than the usual one-day outing made to the town. Though it was initially considered safe enough, in April, Acapulco was suddenly slapped with the hard advisory level for the first time ever. We did have an issue with a speed trap in Nuevo Laredo some months back. Paradise Beach is one of its best beaches, although Tulum is known for having some of the most stunning beaches in the country. For the time being, however, the state of Jaliscos Level 3 Travel Advisory focused mainly on the states Michoacn and Zacatecas borders and travel after dark, insisting that cartel violence does not target tourists or touristic areas, but can be present in other parts of these States so some caution is advised.. She is coming from a town near (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? This is another state located on the border and one thats been placed under level three of the US advisory. I assume you're just gonna declare your goods instead of trying to bring them in duty-free? You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Puebla is one of them. Todos Santos is widely considered a haven awayfrom the cartel violence of its Northern counterpart state above, Baja California (safe for a few recent incidents said to be isolated). Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. Like many of the best cities in Mexico, Oaxaca City is and quite rightfully so - a UNESCO World Heritage site, complete with cobblestone streets, beautiful brightly coloured buildings and remarkably well-preserved colonial architecture. How Safe Is Laredo for Travel? - Travel Safe - Abroad Called the Lake of Seven Colors, the lagoon stretches for 42 kilometers and is fed by underground rivers. One of the most surprising parts of my research is how dangerous the Mexico side of the border is, but just a few feet into America, it's so much safer. No gang violence here, butthrill seekers can still get their fix, from its 680 metre long telefrico (cable car), to its 80 metre high ferris wheel offering spectacular views of Izta and Popo, to its famed twin volcanos Iztacchuatl and Popocatpetl, the former of which is even open for climbing and sight-seeing. The two U.S. cities with more than 500,000 inhabitants and the lowest crime rates-- El Paso, Texas and San Diego, California -- are both located along the U.S.-Mexico border, according to the publication. Pierre de Hail, the president of Janus Group Mexico, a risk management company in Monterrey, is skeptical that security has improved. And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. By the numbersrate of violent crime nationally was 366.7 . With the highestunnatural deathrate in Mexico, you might want to avoid traveling to Colima. Where to Stay: La Casa del Atrio, across from the Museo de Arte, is both popular and affordable. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Yet it still offers plenty of vacation-worthy attractions, like the excellent seafood restaurants along its waterfront, an incredibly warm vibe thanks to its friendly Campechanos, a city square often brilliantly aglow at night with stunning views onto its Plaza Principale, and even a 7km-long boardwalk (malecn). But is itreally that bad? A group of Americans crossed here before being kidnapped on Friday. It distracts from business. In the Hotel Zone its pretty safe, although outside it can get somewhat seedy. Make sure you have pesos for the tolls. Its just unfortunate that its another one on the list thats deemed dangerous for visitors. From Brownsville, Texas, to San Diego, safe border cities have majority-Hispanic populations and poverty rates above the national average. Otherwise, especially if traveling overnight, heading north of the Santa Catarina river, or anywhere outside of San Pedro Garza Garcia or Santa Catarina should basically be avoided. If you don't have a hotel yet in Saltillo, the Sheraton Four Points (formerly American Business Inn) is the closest to the highway and has secure parking. No doubt, this is a natural reaction to the highly needed tourist dollar. Texas border city struggles with large arrival of migrants With events unfolding as they are, Im going to venture a wild guess that prices are going at an all-time low. Quintana Roo and Baja California Sur are at Level 2, indicating that visitors should exercise increased caution. One of the main reasons, a lot of Arizona border town residents cross over to Mexico is to take advantage of the low costs for dentistry work and refilling prescriptions in pharmacies. As you'll inevitably discover, this city is literally pulsing with creativity and is a magical mecca in its own right for writers, musicians, artists, dancers or photographers both gringos and Mexicans alike. To make matters worse, this wasan accident, a classic case of being at the wrong place at the wrong time. A couple of other things. Colombia bridge is the least busy, if that's a concern. It's a real shame that such a beautiful place has no been outlawed, for the most part. For the most authentic experience in Mexico, head to Guadalajara. Unfortunately, travellers are warned against coming to this state. Set at the slightly less restrictive notch of Level 3 (Reconsider Travel), the statewhichthe cute, feisty little dog is named after has a not-at-all-cute reputation for widespread illicit activity. It has caught the attention of artists, nature enthusiasts and government officials alike, the latter if which have even gone so far as to designate it a Pueblo Magico (Magical Town) an honor bestowed only to a handful of towns in the country. Keep in mind that bad things can happen even in the safest places in Mexico, and destinations that dont appear on this list could still be great spots for a vacation. And its not surprising it boasts spectacular views. One of the Americans was scheduled for cosmetic surgery. The turn is right after the airport and not marked very well. In fact, we doubt weve ever have a relaxing vacation there what with all those statistics swirling around in our minds. Mrida. Couple things. Then, in late February, one gang moved into the city to wrest control of drug sales from another, said Eduardo Guerrero, the director of Lantia Intelligence, a security consulting company in Mexico City. However, travel outside Monterrey is indeed permitted during daylight though again, only on toll roads, with the exception of travel to the Monterrey airport, which is permitted at any time. For all its classic retro-iconic lure, Guerreros famous beach resort town Acapulco, once a major tourist destination for Hollywood celebrities, honeymooners and diplomats alike, didnt made the cut. In many ways, Mexico is like that wild cousin you see at Christmas every year: He may have some quirks, but hes family, and, like everything else in life, comes as a package both good and bad. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Lets just say its the kind of place we wouldntwant to be walking alone at night or during the day. Withcartel conflictscaring the locals, many are avoiding this state like the plague. The Laredo bridges get very busy on the weekends, as you might imagine. Asked to steer clear of all adult clubs and gambling establishments when traveling to Coahuila, U.S. travelers are only permitted to visit the areas of Saltillo, Bosques de Monterreal, and of course, the lovely Parras de la Fuente. Mexican border cities, which have long endured waves of violence, are not typically tourist destinations, although Americans often cross the border to visit family, seek out cheaper health care or dine at restaurants. The San Ysidro Port of Entry is one of . There is too much random risk, he said. Despite local police efforts to shield tourists from seeing the worst of what is happening, with two club shootings in Playa del Carmen last year, the recent explosion on a ferry in the resort town this year, and a string of violence in Acapulco over the past several years, cartel-related crime seems to be crouching on tourist territory. Between Parras Valley and Sierra Madre Oriental pine-oak forests, theres no doubt about it that Coahuila is a beautiful place. Fromcolourful streets, perfect weather, and friendly locals, to incredible food (okay, I admit, that ones pretty much a Mexico-wide thing), and endless sources of inspiration, there are no worries. Many are clicking away to book their trip at other destinations, but dont throw the mezcal out with the tequila just yet. We are crossing in three days and at times so much of the information found online makes me feel confused and afraid.
what mexican border towns are safe