Traveling to Mexico Now: What You Need to Know

People plan spring break trips to warm places, but recent fighting in Mexico worries travelers. Usually cartel fights stay inside towns and don’t hurt tourists, yet this time they spread to major spots. Flights stopped in Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara, and the U. S. warned people to stay put near Cancún and Playa del Carmen. Experts say the situation could change fast. A former Pentagon officer explained that killing or capturing cartel leaders can spark new violence. He added that no trip to Mexico is entirely safe, especially when the situation shifts.The main trigger was the death of “El Mencho, ” boss of a big cartel. His killing sparked gun battles, fires and roadblocks in Jalisco State. Mexican forces arrested 70 people and killed 34 suspected cartel members, while 25 National Guard troops lost their lives. U. S. travel alerts for Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta and Ciudad Guzmán are still active, though much of the fighting has cooled. In other states like Baja California, Quintana Roo and Oaxaca, officials say things are back to normal. All airports in Mexico are open and most run normally. Mexico has sent almost 10, 000 soldiers to calm the unrest. President Claudia Sheinbaum says the country is at peace. Travelers should keep updated, follow local news and heed official travel warnings. Staying informed is key to staying safe.