Mexico Travel Advice

Foreign & Common Wealth OfficeThe Foreign & Common Wealth Office still advises against all but essential travel to Mexico.
The Foreign Office is regularly updating its travel news with full information on Swine flu and advice on when travelling to countries affected by it. You should keep checking their website for the latest travel alerts and recommendations. The current swine flu situation is changing rapidly therefore it’s vitally important that you check for the latest information just before you travel.

Mexico Tourism

The World Health Organisation says:
World Health Organisation "Limiting travel and imposing travel restrictions would have very little effect on stopping the virus from spreading, but would be highly disruptive to the global community."
  • The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase remains at Level 6.
  • Following a decline in the number of reported new swine influenza cases in Mexico since its peak on 26 April 2009, the FCO no longer advises against all but essential travel.
  • A full consular and visa service is now available at the Embassy in Mexico City.
  • British nationals who are resident in or simply visiting Mexico may wish to consider whether they should remain in Mexico at this time. 
  • British Nationals should continue to follow local advice on precautions and advice on avoiding exposure to the flu.
  • There are many cases of swine flu that have been reported in Mexico City and a number of other locations across the country.  Therefore, anyone travelling to Mexico should consult a doctor immediately if they show signs of flu-like symptoms.
  • The Mexican Secretariat of Health has strongly advised nationals and tourists to avoid large crowds, shaking hands and kissing people as a greeting which will help with unwanted germs being spread across one another.  When possible also try and maintain a distance of at least six feet from other people and insure frequent hand washing which may decrease the risk of exposure.  Schools in Mexico have begun to re-open from Friday 8 May as well as restaurants in Mexico City. However,   museums and other public venues and events may remain closed or postponed. 
  • Most visits to Mexico are trouble-free, but always have in mind that crime and kidnappings continue.  You should be mainly alert when visiting or exploring tourist areas. Also keep your eyes open when exchanging or withdrawing money.  
  •  There have been a recent number of unexpected and also unpredictable demonstrations across the country particularly in Monterrey and northern borders. Visitors to these areas should be aware of the potential for disruption to their travel plans and should ensure they follow the advice of local authorities at all times.
  • Although shark attacks are relatively rare in Mexico, you should exercise caution in these coastal areas, particularly when surfing.  In 2008 there were 3 shark attacks along the Pacific coast, all involving surfers. This happened approximately 150 miles from the Pacific resort of Acapulco which is close to Pantla and Troncones beaches near Zihuatanejo.  Two of the attacks were fatal, one involving a foreign tourist.
  • Mexico is known for its hurricane season which runs from June to November and can affect both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts – so be aware of that when booking your holiday. You should monitor local and international weather reports and follow the advice of the local authorities as appropriate.  See the Natural Disasters (Hurricanes) section of this advice and Tropical Cyclones for more details.
  • Before travelling to Mexico, we strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance.  You should check any exclusion and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake.

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