Mexico is a popular holiday destination for Brits, but important warnings have been issued about visiting for those heading there in the next few days.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has provided British citizens with important information regarding the upcoming elections in the North American country.
The elections are likely to lead to protests which could affect the safety of British tourists, who have been given advice on how to stay safe.
“Mexico will hold national elections on 2 June 2024, which may lead to an increase in political demonstrations and travel disruptions, including road blockades and fighting between supporters,” the FCDO said.
Mexico is a popular holiday destination for Brits
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“Please avoid demonstrations and leave promptly. Be aware of possible disruptions and monitor local media.”
British people living in Mexico should also be aware of the political situation in the country, with the FCDO advising: “Political demonstrations are common in Mexico City and can occur throughout the country. These can be tense and confrontational and may escalate into violence. Bystanders may quickly become involved. Monitor local media and avoid all demonstrations.”
“It is illegal for foreigners to take part in political activities in Mexico. If you take part in a demonstration you can be detained and deported.”
“Politically motivated violence can occur throughout the country. Bystanders can easily become caught up in it. Monitor local media and avoid all demonstrations. If you encounter protests, leave the area.”
Holidaymakers should also consult UK government advice on terrorism, with British citizens being warned: “There is an increasing global threat of terrorist attacks affecting UK interests and British nationals, including attacks by groups or individuals who see the UK and British nationals as targets. Please remain vigilant at all times.”
“UK Counter Terrorism Police provides information and advice on how to stay safe abroad and what to do if a terrorist attack occurs. Learn how to reduce the risk of terrorism while you're abroad.”
People travelling to Mexico have been warned that “the possibility of a terrorist attack cannot be ruled out.”
When it comes to crime, holidaymakers can increase their safety by taking practical measures. The FCDO said: “Crime in Mexico can be dangerous for foreigners, particularly in larger cities and tourist resort areas where street crime is a serious problem.”
“Many businesses in Mexico and abroad are choosing to hire private security. Research your travel destinations thoroughly, travel during the day whenever possible, monitor local media, and communicate your travel plans to trusted contacts.
“If you are the victim of a crime and wish to report the incident, please report it immediately to your nearest State Prosecutor's Office (Agencia del Ministerio Público). A criminal investigation is not possible without a formal complaint filed with the Mexican authorities. Complaints must be filed directly before leaving Mexico.”
“The Mexico City Command and Control Center ('Centro de Atención a Emergencias y Proteción Ciudadana de la Ciudad de México') provides information and advice in Spanish regarding safety in Mexico City.”
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“Political demonstrations are common in Mexico City.”
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Specific guidance is given on using ATMs, protecting your belongings, fraud, tampering with drinks and food, sexual assault, kidnapping and violence, vehicle crime and crime on public transport.
There are certain parts of Mexico that the UK Government advises against travelling to, so it's important to check the FCDO list before booking any trip to ensure you will be visiting any locations where travel is advised.
The FCDO warned: “If you travel against FCDO advice, your travel insurance may be invalid. Consular support will also be significantly limited where the FCDO is advising against travel.”
British people were recently warned about the threat from South America, with parts of the country in a “state of emergency”.
