CNN and other news outlets are reporting that masked gunmen invaded a rented beach home outside Acapulco, Mexico, on Monday, tying up the male renters and raping six Spanish female renters.
While the United States Department of State considers the tourist areas of Acapulco to be relatively safe, according to its most recent Travel Warning for Mexico, the Mexican state of Guerrero (where Acapulco is located) is known for its organized crime problems. Police are still investigating Monday's assault, although they do not believe the attack is connected to a criminal organization.
Mexico is a very large country, however, and there are many areas that are both safe and welcoming. If you are concerned about Mexico travel safety, your best defenses are research and awareness. Find out which places to avoid before you book your trip, choose safe places to visit and stay alert while you travel.
In regard to your recent item concerning travel to Mexico, I have been traveling to the Mazatlan area for 25 years and thus far have encountered no problems. The beaches are beautiful and the people warm and welcoming.
I first traveled to Mexico in 1963 when I was in the US Army. Since then I have been to Mexico countless times. I have enjoyed the people, the ambience, the history and the food in Mexico but no more. My wife and I will be vacationing in the Caribbean this year instead. Yes…it has crime but the crime/drug culture prevalent in Mexico is less in the Caribbean and I want to feel safe when traveling.
I have many wonderful memories of Mexico (including sleeping on the beach in Mazatlan during a rainstorm) but until the crime rate is reduced, I won’t be going back.