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Is Baja California Safe? Travel Advisory 2023

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Baja California is a relatively safe part of Mexico for visitors, especially if you’re careful about where you go. Rosarita, Ensenada, and the Guadalupe Valley are low-risk, tourist-friendly areas.

However, the U.S. State Department has issued an advisory for the state: “Level 3 – Reconsider Travel.” If you do go there, you need to exercise caution, whatever part of the state you visit.

LATEST UPDATES / NEWS from Baja Califonia Sur:

March 21 – Arrivals to Baja California Sur are exceeding the government’s expectations

According to the Baja California Sur Region’s Ministry of Tourism and Economy (SETUE), approximately four million visitors will arrive by air in 2022, exceeding even their own projections. This number adds to the overall lower number of tourists coming to Baja California Sur by land or sea.

97% of all visitors from other countries to Baja California Sur were travelers from the United States and Canada. Compared to 2019, the number of visitors from the United States alone climbed by 28.9 year over year.

Types of Dangers in Baja California

Petty crime is the most likely threat to American tourists. This includes pickpocketing, mugging, and break-ins.

Cartels are active in Baja California, particularly near the border. Their main businesses are human trafficking and the drug trade, and they don’t normally target tourists. Still, it’s prudent to avoid areas where cartels operate. There’s a chance, albeit small, of getting caught in the crossfire.

Furthermore, while robbing tourists isn’t their main line of work, there’s no guarantee that they won’t.

Kidnapping is another cartel specialty. They mostly target Mexican nationals and people with money, so the danger to the average tourist is minimal.

Many tourists drive in Mexico without incident. However, driving entails risks you should know about. The biggest danger is other drivers. Many Mexican drivers speed, ignore traffic laws, and drive drunk.

Furthermore, roads are in generally poor shape, and potholes are common. In some areas, cartels may set up roadblocks and extort money in exchange for the privilege of passing unharmed.

Police may not be of any help, and some are corrupt. They may demand bribes for traffic violations, real or invented. Sometimes bad actors pose as police. Always ask for an ID. If you do pay a fine, do so on the government traffic fine website, Multas do Transito.

Natural disasters are another risk, albeit a small one. There are earthquakes, mostly low-level and low-magnitude, but severe quakes occur occasionally. Also, Zika and other communicable diseases can be a threat.

Places to avoid/reconsider visiting in Baja California

Many tourists like to visit strip clubs or hire prostitutes in the red-light districts. These places aren’t safe, especially the Zona Norte – “North Zone” – in Tijuana.

These areas abound in thieves, both pickpockets and violent robbers. Sometimes prostitutes drug and rob their clients.

The city center in Tijuana, Zona Centro, is reasonably safe during daylight hours, but it’s best avoided at night.

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Cartel activity takes place mainly in areas that tourists don’t frequent. However, cartels are active near the border. Stay away from border areas outside of the official crossing.

Tijuana is a diverse city with a lot to offer. However, navigating the city requires more caution than in some other parts of Baja California.

Safe places to visit in Baja California

Rosarito, Baja California

For ocean lovers, Rosarito is a relatively safe town with lovely beaches. Ensenada is a nice waterside community with interesting nightlife.

In any place like this, the safest areas are the “touristy” ones. Avoid isolated beaches and the outskirts of towns, which tend to be sketchier.

Stay in secure hotels or hostels or reputable Airbnb.

Some of these towns have red-light districts which are enticing but dangerous.

If you do go to Baja California

As on any vacation, follow this basic safety checklist:

  • Give a family member or friend your itinerary. If you change plans, let them know.
  • Check the State Department’s most current travel advisory. Refer to the CDC website for warnings about hurricanes or infectious outbreaks.
  • Stay in safe hotels or BNBs and spend your time in safe neighborhoods where there are other tourists.
  • Keep a low profile and don’t flash money or valuables. It helps to learn a little Spanish.
  • Photocopy your passport and keep the copy with you.

With reasonable caution, there’s every reason to believe your trip to Baja California will be an untroubled one. Enjoy your travels!

The post Is Baja California Safe? Travel Advisory 2023 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

———-
By: Viktor Vincej
Title: Is Baja California Safe? Travel Advisory 2023
Sourced From: www.travelinglifestyle.net/is-baja-california-safe-travel-advisory-2023/
Published Date: Tue, 21 Mar 2023 18:55:16 +0000

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the joys of travel?

The joys of travel include the excitement of exploring new destinations, encountering unique cultures, tasting new cuisines, and experiencing the beauty of the natural world.

Is traveling a good life?

Traveling can indeed be a good life, as it promotes personal growth, enhances well-being, and provides a wealth of experiences that enrich one’s existence.

Advertisement

What is the most important thing about traveling?

The most important thing about traveling is to fully immerse yourself in the experience, be present in the moment, and appreciate the unique opportunities for growth and connection that travel offers.

Why Wouldn’t You Travel More When There Are So Many Benefits of Traveling?

You should travel more when there are so many benefits of traveling, including improved mental and emotional well-being, personal growth, cultural exchange, and the opportunity to create lasting memories.

Are There Health Benefits of Traveling?

Yes, there are health benefits of traveling, such as reduced stress, increased physical activity, and improved mental well-being. Travel can also strengthen the immune system and promote overall wellness.

Why travel makes us happy?

Travel makes us happy because it provides a break from the routine, offers a sense of adventure, and satisfies our innate curiosity to explore and learn about the world around us.

Statistics

  • In one study , researchers found that female people who took vacations twice or more per year were less likely to report symptoms of depression and tension, compared to those who only vacationed once every 2 or 6 years. (goodrx.com)
  • According to a 2013 study , more than 80% of Americans, who were surveyed, noticed significant drops in stress just after a day or two of traveling. (forbes.com)
  • Affordability is evidently a big factor — about 71 percent of Americans say it’s too expensive to leave the country — but that’s hardly the whole story. (nbcnews.com)
  • A recent study reported more than half (52%) of respondents felt burned out, and more than two-thirds (67%) believed the feeling had worsened during the pandemic. (leehealth.org)
  • After the trial period, they found that the people who vacationed every year had about 30% less risk of dying from heart disease. (goodrx.com)

External Links

hbr.org

couchsurfing.com

academic.oup.com

theatlantic.com

nydailynews.com

How To

How to Boost Your Mental Health Through the Benefits of Travel

Boost your mental health through the benefits of travel by taking breaks from your daily routine, engaging in new experiences, and connecting with different cultures. Travel can help reduce stress, increase happiness, and promote a sense of accomplishment. Make time for self-reflection and mindfulness during your travels to further support your mental well-being.

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This Caribbean Town Is The New Busiest Beach Destination In Mexico

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The Secretary of Tourism of the Government of Mexico has recently announced that Akumal is the busiest beach destination in Mexico. On the Yucatán Peninsula, Akumal is a coastal resort of Mexico’s Riviera Maya.

It is not only Akumal that has been busy, as there has been a 60.5% hotel occupancy rate across Mexico, according to Secretary of Tourism Miguel Torruco Marqués. 

The hotel occupancy rate, which was taken over the first quarter of 2023, is nearly 10 percent higher than in 2022. This is according to the 70 centers monitored by DataTur, which provides tourism statistics information to the Government of Mexico.

Data further show that in this period, an average of 142,685 occupied rooms were registered in beach centers. This is an increase of 14.8% compared to last year’s number of 124,300.

In terms of occupancy rate, the beach center occupancy rate was 71.7%, nine percentage points compared to the same period in 2022.

The total number of tourists in beach centers was nine million during the first three months of 2023, while Mexican cities registered 10.8 million tourists in hotel rooms.

Of the total 19.8 million tourists from January to March 2023, Torruco Marqués highlighted that 13.9 million (or nearly 70% of the total) were nationals.

Torruco Marqués detailed that the busiest beach destinations with the highest occupancy levels in Mexico were:

  • Akumal – 87.6%
  • Playacar – 86.6% (Playa del Carmen)
  • Cabo San Lucas – 84.5%
  • New Nayarit – 84.4%
  • Puerto Vallarta – 83.6%
  • Cancun – 80.5%

Akumal which means “Place of the Turtle” in the Mayan language, is known for its white sands, warm waters, and rich marine life, including turtles of course. Akumal Beach, or Playa Akumal, features turquoise waters where only a certain number of simmers are allowed each day to protect the turtle zone. 

Guests should get to the beach early, hire a guide to be able to find the best spots to swim with turtles.

The post This Caribbean Town Is The New Busiest Beach Destination In Mexico appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

———-
By: Jarone Ashkenazi
Title: This Caribbean Town Is The New Busiest Beach Destination In Mexico
Sourced From: www.travelinglifestyle.net/this-caribbean-town-is-the-new-busiest-beach-destination-in-mexico/
Published Date: Wed, 24 May 2023 13:49:12 +0000

———

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Health Benefits of Traveling?

Yes, there are health benefits of traveling, such as reduced stress, increased physical activity, and improved mental well-being. Travel can also strengthen the immune system and promote overall wellness.

Advertisement

What is the most important thing about traveling?

The most important thing about traveling is to fully immerse yourself in the experience, be present in the moment, and appreciate the unique opportunities for growth and connection that travel offers.

Why Wouldn’t You Travel More When There Are So Many Benefits of Traveling?

You should travel more when there are so many benefits of traveling, including improved mental and emotional well-being, personal growth, cultural exchange, and the opportunity to create lasting memories.

What is the most important in traveling?

The most important aspect of traveling is to embrace the experience with an open mind and a willingness to learn from the people and places you encounter.

What is the value of traveling?

The value of traveling lies in the personal growth and enrichment it brings, as well as the opportunity to forge meaningful connections with people and places beyond your immediate environment.

Why travel makes us happy?

Travel makes us happy because it provides a break from the routine, offers a sense of adventure, and satisfies our innate curiosity to explore and learn about the world around us.

Advertisement

Statistics

  • According to a 2013 study , more than 80% of Americans, who were surveyed, noticed significant drops in stress just after a day or two of traveling. (forbes.com)
  • Men who do not take an annual vacation show a 20 percent higher risk of death and 30 percent greater risk of heart disease. (nbcnews.com)
  • Researchers found that the people who took the least amount of vacation time (about one vacation every 6 years) were about two and a half times more likely to have a heart attack than people who vacationed once per year. (goodrx.com)
  • You pay 20% coinsurance for nonemergency care. (hca.wa.gov)
  • After the trial period, they found that the people who vacationed every year had about 30% less risk of dying from heart disease. (goodrx.com)

External Links

articles.latimes.com

academic.oup.com

doi.org

verywell.com

hbr.org

How To

How to Achieve a Healthier, Happier You by Understanding the Physical and Mental Benefits of Traveling

Achieve a healthier, happier you by embracing the physical and mental benefits of traveling. Engage in physical activities such as hiking, swimming, or yoga, and practice mindfulness and self-reflection to support your mental well-being. Use travel as an opportunity to reset, recharge, and reconnect with yourself and the world around you.

Continue Reading

News

Is Houston Safe? Travel Advisory 2023

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Houston, Texas is situated in the southeast part of the state and near the coastline. It is known as home to me any prominent businesses and the organization NASA.

Many large cities have challenges with safety, and Houston, which is one of the largest cities in the country, is no exception to that. As a major presence in Texas, the city near the coast has for years been a growing metro area.

Crime Data from NeighbourhoodScout

More crime data on neighborhoodscout.com.

Neighborhoods in the Houston Area

In any large or small city, there are certain neighborhoods that are better or worse than others when it comes to crime and safety.

Houston is no exception to that. It is important to know which sections of the metro area are safe or not. And people should be extra cautious when they are in high-crime neighborhoods.

10 most dangerous neighborhoods in Houston (according to Property Club data)

  1. Sunnyside
  2. MacGregor
  3. Sharpstown
  4. Greenspoint
  5. Far North
  6. Northeast
  7. Northwest
  8. East End
  9. Sugarland
  10. Pasadena

Gang and Related Activity

Houston, as is true for many large cities these days, has a challenge with a gang presence. That invites many challenging activities and crimes. So residents and visitors of Houston should pay attention at all times and if possible not go to areas where there is a known gang presence. Activities such as gang-related crimes can be worse at certain times of the day or week.

Vehicle Safety

It is essential to consider safety at home as well as while away from home and traveling. In Houston, there are increasing incidents of serious issues like road rage.

There are also car break-ins and theft. Anyone using one’s own personal vehicle or a rental vehicle should be extra cautious. That includes keeping all windows closed and doors locked, and not keeping any valuable items in a vehicle.

Safety for Women

Women face an overall medium risk when it comes to safety in Houston. One of the best ways to work around any safety and crime risks is for women to not travel alone, and to travel with at least one other person.

Public Transportation

Many people use public transportation in Houston. They travel by bus, train, taxi, rideshare, and rental car. Travelers should be vigilant about being aware of their surroundings when traveling.

Terrorism Risks

Many large cities these days are at increased risk for terrorist activity to occur. Houston is unfortunately a city like that. So residents and visitors to Houston should be informed about the specific risk level at all times.

Natural Disasters

Because it is near the Gulf of Mexico and Galveston Bay, Houston can often be a prime area for hurricanes and other natural disasters to occur. So the weather is a serious safety concern. Hurricanes mainly occur between June and November. Residents and visitors to Houston should pay close attention to weather forecasts and be well prepared for hurricanes. In some situations, it is best to evacuate the Houston area when a hurricane is approaching.

Overall Safety

Houston overall has a long way to go when it comes to becoming safer. There are many crimes occurring, and safety is increasingly a concern. Specific crimes, such as assault, robbery, and vandalism are on the rise in Houston. While crime is increasing in recent years, it is everyone’s job to contribute to Houston being a safer place.

Houston is a great place to call home and an area where there is much to do and see for travelers. There are some safety challenges, so it is important to asses the risks and stay aware. Knowledge is power, so those can be great strategies for averting many safety concerns. Everyone can do his or her part to make Houston a safer and more enjoyable place to reside or travel.

The post Is Houston Safe? Travel Advisory 2023 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

———-
By: Viktor Vincej
Title: Is Houston Safe? Travel Advisory 2023
Sourced From: www.travelinglifestyle.net/is-houston-safe-travel-advisory-2023/
Published Date: Wed, 24 May 2023 14:33:29 +0000

———

Advertisement

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the joys of travel?

The joys of travel include the excitement of exploring new destinations, encountering unique cultures, tasting new cuisines, and experiencing the beauty of the natural world.

What is the value of traveling?

The value of traveling lies in the personal growth and enrichment it brings, as well as the opportunity to forge meaningful connections with people and places beyond your immediate environment.

Why travel makes us happy?

Travel makes us happy because it provides a break from the routine, offers a sense of adventure, and satisfies our innate curiosity to explore and learn about the world around us.

Is traveling a good life?

Traveling can indeed be a good life, as it promotes personal growth, enhances well-being, and provides a wealth of experiences that enrich one’s existence.

Why Wouldn’t You Travel More When There Are So Many Benefits of Traveling?

You should travel more when there are so many benefits of traveling, including improved mental and emotional well-being, personal growth, cultural exchange, and the opportunity to create lasting memories.

Advertisement

What is the most important thing about traveling?

The most important thing about traveling is to fully immerse yourself in the experience, be present in the moment, and appreciate the unique opportunities for growth and connection that travel offers.

Statistics

  • The study determined that men who take an annual vacation are 30% less likely to die from heart disease, among other findings. (goodwall.io)
  • A recent study reported more than half (52%) of respondents felt burned out, and more than two-thirds (67%) believed the feeling had worsened during the pandemic. (leehealth.org)
  • Affordability is evidently a big factor — about 71 percent of Americans say it’s too expensive to leave the country — but that’s hardly the whole story. (nbcnews.com)
  • In one study , researchers found that female people who took vacations twice or more per year were less likely to report symptoms of depression and tension, compared to those who only vacationed once every 2 or 6 years. (goodrx.com)
  • After the trial period, they found that the people who vacationed every year had about 30% less risk of dying from heart disease. (goodrx.com)

External Links

verywell.com

hbr.org

academic.oup.com

articles.latimes.com

couchsurfing.com

How To

How to Boost Your Mental Health Through the Benefits of Travel

Boost your mental health through the benefits of travel by taking breaks from your daily routine, engaging in new experiences, and connecting with different cultures. Travel can help reduce stress, increase happiness, and promote a sense of accomplishment. Make time for self-reflection and mindfulness during your travels to further support your mental well-being.

Continue Reading

News

TSA Claims To Be Prepared To Handle Busy Summer Travel Season

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According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), during the busy summer travel season, it will be possible to screen large numbers of travelers at airport security checkpoints across the country.

According to TSA officials, about 2.6 million passengers are expected to be screened on May 26, the busiest day of the extended Memorial Day weekend. To accommodate the influx of travelers, the agency has announced that teenagers aged 13 to 17 who are booked on the same reservation as the PreCheck-enrolled parents or guardians, will be allowed to accompany them through the screening process.

TSA representatives are urging travelers to sign up for a five-year, $78 PreCheck subscription that speeds up screening at checkpoints. 94% of PreCheck travelers waited no longer than five minutes at the checkpoint in April.

“TSA is ready to handle this summer’s anticipated increase in travel,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said. “Our staffing levels are better and this is largely due to better pay for all TSA employees which starts on July 1.”

“Our strong partnerships with airports and airlines will ensure we are able to anticipate and respond to changes in passenger travel throughout the summer,” Pekoske said.

TSA is deploying innovative technology solutions across the country to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of security screening. These include Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) units that verify the validity of a passenger’s identification documents, flight details, and status prior to screening.

Agents are advising travelers to start their packing with an empty bag to avoid being caught with prohibited items at security checkpoints. Undeclared weapons are prohibited at security checkpoints and on aircraft, although passengers are allowed to travel with firearms if they are properly packed in checked baggage and declared to the airline.

TSA advises travelers to allow plenty of time to park or return a rental car, ride a shuttle to the airport, check in with the airline, check baggage, and prepare for security screening, as airports will be busy.

Respect for TSA agents and other airport and airline employees is one of the most crucial pieces of advice that the general public seems to have forgotten. Violence and disruptive behavior toward them is not allowed because they are there to ensure the safety of all passengers.

The post TSA Claims To Be Prepared To Handle Busy Summer Travel Season appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

———-
By: Maria Valencia
Title: TSA Claims To Be Prepared To Handle Busy Summer Travel Season
Sourced From: www.travelinglifestyle.net/tsa-claims-to-be-prepared-to-handle-busy-summer-travel-season/
Published Date: Wed, 24 May 2023 15:40:53 +0000

———

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the joys of travel?

The joys of travel include the excitement of exploring new destinations, encountering unique cultures, tasting new cuisines, and experiencing the beauty of the natural world.

Advertisement

Why People Are Travelling?

People are traveling because it satisfies their desire for adventure, offers a respite from daily life, and provides opportunities for personal growth, learning, and cultural exchange.

What is the most important in traveling?

The most important aspect of traveling is to embrace the experience with an open mind and a willingness to learn from the people and places you encounter.

What is the value of traveling?

The value of traveling lies in the personal growth and enrichment it brings, as well as the opportunity to forge meaningful connections with people and places beyond your immediate environment.

How traveling improves your life?

Traveling improves your life by allowing you to step out of your comfort zone, develop problem-solving skills, enhance your creativity, and improve your communication abilities as you interact with people from diverse backgrounds.

Is traveling a good life?

Traveling can indeed be a good life, as it promotes personal growth, enhances well-being, and provides a wealth of experiences that enrich one’s existence.

Advertisement

Statistics

  • Affordability is evidently a big factor — about 71 percent of Americans say it’s too expensive to leave the country — but that’s hardly the whole story. (nbcnews.com)
  • According to a 2013 study , more than 80% of Americans, who were surveyed, noticed significant drops in stress just after a day or two of traveling. (forbes.com)
  • You pay 20% coinsurance for nonemergency care. (hca.wa.gov)
  • Researchers found that the people who took the least amount of vacation time (about one vacation every 6 years) were about two and a half times more likely to have a heart attack than people who vacationed once per year. (goodrx.com)
  • The study determined that men who take an annual vacation are 30% less likely to die from heart disease, among other findings. (goodwall.io)

External Links

verywell.com

journals.sagepub.com

huffingtonpost.com

theatlantic.com

articles.latimes.com

How To

How to Improve Your Emotional Intelligence by Cultivating Gratitude and Empathy Through Travel

Improve your emotional intelligence through travel by practicing gratitude for the opportunities and experiences you encounter, and empathizing with the people you meet. Engage in meaningful conversations, listen to other’s stories, and try to understand their perspectives. Reflect on your experiences and use them to develop a deeper sense of empathy and compassion.

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