If you are planning a trip to Mexico this year, forget it. Any travel in Mexico is very dangerous. Although the country is very beautiful with wonderful beaches, the USA State Department has issued warning about the dangers of traveling in Mexico. The Mexican government is in a battle with the drug cartel and many innocent civilians are killed daily in gun battles. To make matters worse, the drug cartels are kidnapping travelers for ransom. Unlike Europe, you cannot blend with the residents of Mexico. Once you are kidnapped, you are on your own. Since many the police are corrupt, you will get little, if any. Assistance from the State Department is very limited.
As an American traveler you are very vulnerable and an easy prey. The drug cartels are looking for travelers who may be able to pay a ransom. If you go to Mexico, go to a resort and do not leave it. Do not be misled by going in groups--as a group of travelers you will only alert the cartels to your presence. A group guide will not be able to protect you from these cartels. The best plan is to avoid Mexico this year and wait for a safer time to visit Mexico.
