02/23/2026
🇲🇽 Mexico Travel Update — What You Need to Know
You may have seen recent headlines about violence in parts of Puerto Vallarta and the state of Jalisco. I want to share what that means — and what it doesn’t mean for Canadians travelling to the Caribbean side of Mexico.
📍 Two Different Parts of Mexico
Mexico is a very large country — and what happens in one region doesn’t automatically apply across the whole country.
📍 Puerto Vallarta & Jalisco
• Located on Mexico’s Pacific Coast.
• Some areas have seen an increase in cartel-related violence and clashes involving security forces.
📍 Cancún, Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen & Tulum
• Located on Mexico’s Caribbean Coast in the state of Quintana Roo.
• These destinations are over 2,000 km — and many hours by car or plane — from Puerto Vallarta.
So although both are in the same country, they’re very far apart geographically and operate in entirely different regions.
🇨🇦 What the Canadian Government Says
The Government of Canada currently advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico because of crime in certain areas. However, it also acknowledges that popular tourist destinations such as Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and the Riviera Maya have lower violent-crime incidents compared with parts of inland or Pacific-coast regions.
Before travelling, Canadians are advised to:
✔️ Check up-to-date travel advice at Travel.gc.ca
✔️ Purchase comprehensive travel insurance
✔️ Register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad
✔️ Keep valuables secure and stay within known tourist zones
✔️ Use reputable transportation and avoid isolated areas at night
➡️ Official Travel Advice — Government of Canada (Travel.gc.ca)
✈️ Why Travel to the Caribbean Coast Is Still Popular
Millions of Canadians visit Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and the Riviera Maya every year with great experiences — and this year is no different. These destinations:
🏖️ Have strong tourism infrastructure
👮 Are well-patrolled, especially in hotel zones and main attractions
☀️ Offer beautiful beaches, cenotes, culture and world-class service
📈 Continue to draw international visitors without major disruptions
Most travel-related incidents in these areas involve petty crime rather than violent crime — similar to other major resort regions around the world.
🛡️ Simple Tips for Safe Travel
To help you have the best possible experience:
✔️ Stay alert and aware of your surroundings
✔️ Use licensed taxis, hotel shuttles or rideshares
✔️ Avoid flashing expensive items like jewelry or gadgets
✔️ Keep travel documents and passports secure
✔️ Follow hotel and local safety instructions
🌴 Bottom Line
⚠️ There are areas of Mexico currently experiencing unrest — like parts of Jalisco and the Pacific Coast — including Puerto Vallarta.
✔️ However, Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and the Riviera Maya are geographically distant and operate as separate tourism regions that continue to be safe and welcoming for travellers who take normal travel precautions.
If you have questions about your trip or want help with current travel advice, I’m here to help — just reach out! 🌺✈️
Travel Gems With Em
Emalee McKeown
