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Are you planning a Spring Break vacation to Mexico this year? Before you book your flight and hotels, it’s worth noting that the Federal Government is warning against traveling to Mexico due to safety concerns. This is a very important report that everyone should know about, so make sure to stay with me during this video to learn all of the details.

According to a Friday press release from the Texas Department of Public Safety, officials strongly discourage Texans from traveling south of the border for spring break this year. 

Due to recent violence in Mexico, Texas authorities warned residents to stay away. Last week, four Americans were kidnapped in Mexico, and two of them died. 

Texas Department of Public Safety Director Steven McCraw said in a statement: “Drug cartel violence and other criminal activity represent a significant safety threat to anyone who crosses into Mexico right now. Based on the volatile nature of cartel activity and the violence we are seeing there; we are urging individuals to avoid travel to Mexico at this time.”

Moreover, federal officials urged any American citizen who does not heed their warning to register with the American embassy or consulate before traveling overseas. While the Texas DPS issued the travel advice during spring break, it applies “beyond” the vacation period. 

The United States Department of State travel advisory on Mexico says, “Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common” in the country. 

In six Mexican states, including Tamaulipas, where the four Americans were recently kidnapped, the department has issued “Do Not Travel” warnings. They also urge Americans to “Exercise Increased Caution” in 17 states and “Reconsider Travel” to seven Mexican states. There are only two states where the department advises exercising normal precautions. 

Avoiding Mexico altogether ultimately may be the wisest course of action this year. So before you schedule your next getaway south of the border, consider these warnings from Federal agencies — and start looking for safer alternatives. Last week alone, four American citizens were kidnapped in Mexico with two resulting in death. Such heinous occurrences make it simply not worth the risk to take a trip there. Americans are being urged to try and select alternative destinations which are much safer for vacationers. As such, travelers should still consider registering with an appropriate embassy or consulate before any overseas trips even if they avoid Mexico. 

Let’s continue this conversation, in the comments below.