The most dangerous vacation?
The recent drug wars on the border have created much controversy for those looking to vacation in Mexico this season
By Luis Montes
Spanish Editor,
The VOICE
Recently, the media coverage on the so called "Mexican War" has been out of control.
Numbers don't lie, neither does major broadcasting networks. It is estimated that about 7,000 people have died in the hands of the drug dealers since January 2008.
Photo by Israel Leal/ Associated Press
Despite the recent surge in drug-related murders on the border, many college students still flock to the Mexican beaches.
Policemen that refuse to cooperate and opposite side drug dealers are the main target for the drug lords.
Even though Mexico might not seem like the safest place to travel to these days, some students think it is just the perfect place to go.
Cynthia Rea, a 19 year old call center sales representative, thinks Mexico is the perfect vacation spot despite the recent media coverage. Rea traveled to Rocky Point during spring break and according to her, everything went perfect. "It was very safe. It wasn't anything out of the ordinary. It was like every other Rocky point weekend," says Rea when asked about her recent trip to Mexico.
Rea pointed out that there was a significant amount of Army force present at the touristic center of Rocky Point. About her experience, Rea declared, "Nobody was hurt. Nobody was shot. No type of violence. It was completely safe."
Since the newly released government warning on visiting Mexico was published, Americans have been worried about visiting Mexico specifically.
As stated by Rae, a lot of people tried to convince her not to go to Mexico. The common consensus is that if you know where to go and stay safe, Mexico is a viable option for vacationing.
There are some recommendations when traveling aboard that every American should follow. Always let everybody know exactly where you plan on traveling to and the exact location that you will be at. Be sure to carry your passport and several Identifications with you in a safe place.
Also, be aware of who you meet abroad, don't deliver money or weapons for anybody. Try to stay in communication with your family at all times.
Some people may think that Mexico is not a safe vacation spot, but in reality, it is a prime destination for Americans to travel.
Please send comments to lcmontes@gccvoice.com
