US warns of crime, kidnapping risks on Mexico travel routes

The U.S. State Department has updated its travel advisory for Americans planning international trips, particularly those intending to travel to Mexico. The advisory, maintained at a Level 2 ('Exercise Increased Caution'), highlights concerns regarding terrorism, crime, and kidnapping. Specific risks mentioned include homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, sexual assault, and robbery, with the U.S. government's ability to provide emergency assistance potentially limited in remote areas. Six states—Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas—are designated Level 4 ('Do Not Travel'). Baja California, Chihuahua, Guanajuato, and Jalisco are at Level 3 ('Reconsider Travel'). Mexico City and Nuevo León are at Level 2, while Jalisco is Level 3. The advisory advises against traveling between cities after dark, recommends using dispatched taxis or app-based services, and warns against traveling alone in remote areas. Travelers are urged to comply with security checkpoints, as ignoring instructions could lead to harm. The State Department encourages enrollment in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), reviewing local laws, monitoring embassy alerts, and purchasing travel insurance.