Tips to Solo Travelers Going to Playa Del Carmen On Spring Break

If you’re planning to take a vacay with your girlfriends to Playa Del Carmen you might want to take a look at this important information!

Today the US Department of State OSAC Division released a Security Alert indicating that the Embassy had received information about a security threat in the tourist destination of Playa del Carmen. The U.S. Consular Agency in Playa del Carmen has been closed, and U.S. government travel to the area is restricted until further notice.

In addition to the advisory regarding Playa del Carmen, the State Department published an Alert on March 7 highlighting potentially unforeseen security issues that travelers may encounter in Mexico during Spring Break. These included:

• Medical Emergencies: An illness or accident could result in the need to seek medical treatment or hospitalization in Mexico.  Private hospital prices are comparable to those in the United States.  Many facilities require payment in advance of treatment.
• Drowning: Some beaches have strong undercurrents and rip tides.  Beaches may lack life guards, warnings, or signs of unsafe conditions.
• Unregulated alcohol: U.S. citizens have reported losing consciousness or becoming injured after one or two drinks, and may have consumed unregulated alcohol.
• Sexual assault: U.S. citizens have reported incidents of rape or sexual assault.  Perpetrators may target inebriated or isolated individuals.
• Drugs: Drug possession and use, including medical marijuana, is illegal in Mexico and may result in a lengthy jail sentence.
• Arrests: Drunk and disorderly behavior and urinating in public are illegal in Mexico.  If you break Mexican law, you will be arrested.

To address these potential issues, we suggest you follow these tips::

• Purchase travel insurance that specifically covers you in Mexico and includes medical evacuation insurance.
• Avoid strong currents and do not swim while drinking or when warning flags note unsafe conditions.
• Drink responsibly and watch your drink at all times. If you begin to feel ill, seek medical attention immediately.
• Know your drinking companions and stay in a group of friends who have your safety in mind when you are in clubs, bars, out walking in dimly-lit areas, or in a taxi at night. Obey Mexican law and remember Mexican laws may differ from U.S. laws.
• Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate if you need assistance.