Travel Advisory: Canadians' Take On Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

what canadians are saying about travel advisory puerto vallarta mexico

Canadians are weighing in on the travel advisory for Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, as COVID-19 cases continue to rise in the country. While some Canadians in Puerto Vallarta are choosing to stay, others are returning home out of caution. The Canadian government has advised against non-essential travel to the area, but some disagree with the advisory, arguing that the number of cases is still relatively low.

Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest cities in Mexico and does not currently have a travel advisory from the U.S. Department of State. However, the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 3 travel advisory for Mexico as a whole, recommending that people reconsider travel due to crime and violence in certain regions.

Canadians travelling to Mexico are encouraged to check the latest advice from the government and purchase comprehensive travel insurance. It is also recommended to register trips online before departure so that the government can provide assistance in an emergency.

Characteristics Values
Canadians' opinions on travel advisory Some Canadians are disappointed with the travel advisory, arguing that the number of COVID-19 cases in Puerto Vallarta is still relatively low. Others are choosing to return home out of caution.
Canadian government's advice The Canadian government has issued a travel advisory for Puerto Vallarta, advising Canadians to avoid all non-essential travel to the area.
Safety in Puerto Vallarta Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest cities in Mexico. However, there have been reports of violent crimes such as rape, robbery, assault, and kidnapping.
Crime rate in Puerto Vallarta The crime rate in Puerto Vallarta is relatively low compared to other popular vacation destinations in Mexico. The city has implemented security measures, and local authorities prioritize safety.
U.S. State Department warning The U.S. State Department has not issued any specific warnings for Puerto Vallarta but advises travelers to exercise increased caution in Mexico due to high levels of crime.

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Crime rates and safety precautions

Crime Rates

Puerto Vallarta is generally considered a safe destination for travellers. However, violent crime, petty theft, and drug-related offences are prevalent in certain areas. The city has implemented various security measures, and local authorities prioritise the safety of residents and visitors. The crime rate in Puerto Vallarta has decreased in recent years, with a 50% reduction in homicides between 2018 and 2019. Most crimes in the city are related to petty theft and can be prevented by taking common-sense precautions.

Safety Precautions

  • Stay in well-lit, crowded places after dark.
  • Avoid isolated locations like beaches or parks at night.
  • Be cautious when using ATMs, and carry only the necessary cash.
  • Don't carry or purchase illegal drugs.
  • Don't wander down dark alleys.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure.
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases.
  • Don't carry large amounts of cash or display expensive items.
  • Use official transport, and take registered taxis or Ubers at night.
  • Follow local safety advice from hotels and tourism bureaus.
  • Stay informed about safety concerns and follow local authorities' advice.
  • Exercise caution when swimming at the beach, especially if a black warning flag is posted.
  • Be cautious when consuming food and drinks to minimise the risk of illness.
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover medical emergencies and trip cancellations or interruptions.
  • Enlist in the Department of State's Safe Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive travel alerts.
  • Follow general safety guidelines such as locking your valuables when leaving your hotel room and learning basic emergency contact information.

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Travel advisories and restrictions

The Canadian government advises its citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, due to the rise in COVID-19 cases in the region. While some Canadians in Puerto Vallarta have chosen to stay, others have decided to return home out of an abundance of caution. The Mexican government has not issued any travel advisories for the city, and it is generally considered safe to travel there. However, it is always good to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings when travelling.

The US State Department has issued a Level 3 advisory for Mexico, recommending that citizens "reconsider travel" due to crime and violence. However, this advisory is for broad regions, and the incidence of criminal activity is highly concentrated in specific areas that are not frequently visited by tourists. The advisory also warns against travelling to certain areas outside the main tourist zones. It is recommended that travellers stay informed about safety concerns and follow local authorities' advice.

The US State Department has assigned a Level 3 advisory to Jalisco, the state where Puerto Vallarta is located, due to crime and kidnapping. However, this is mainly due to cartel violence in specific areas far from Puerto Vallarta. There are no restrictions on travel for US government employees to Puerto Vallarta and other tourist areas in Jalisco.

The Mexican state of Sonora is a key hub for international drug and human trafficking networks, while Tabasco and Tamaulipas states are known for criminal activity and violence. Employees of the US government are restricted from travelling to certain areas within these states.

In terms of safety, Puerto Vallarta and Cancun are both considered safe destinations for tourists. However, it is important to stay updated with the latest travel advisories before booking a trip. Puerto Vallarta offers a more traditional Mexican experience, while Cancun is known as the party capital.

When visiting Puerto Vallarta, it is recommended to take general safety precautions such as staying in well-lit areas at night, dressing modestly, avoiding isolated beaches, and using common sense. It is also important to be cautious when dealing with police extortion and corruption, which has been an issue in Mexico. If stopped for a traffic violation, remain calm and accept responsibility, but do not bribe the officers unless it is inevitable.

Overall, while there are some safety concerns in Mexico and Puerto Vallarta, these destinations can be enjoyed safely by staying informed, exercising caution, and following local authorities' advice.

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COVID-19 cases and travel warnings

As of September 2024, the Canadian government has issued a travel advisory for Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, due to rising COVID-19 cases in the region. Canadians are advised to avoid all non-essential travel to the area. While some Canadians in Puerto Vallarta choose to stay, others decide to return home out of caution. Many express a sense of safety in their current location but are concerned about the increasing number of COVID-19 cases.

Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest cities in Mexico, and daily flights are available to popular coastal destinations such as Cabo San Lucas, Riviera Nayarit, Cancun, and the Loreto Islands. The U.S. Department of State has not issued any travel warnings or alerts for Puerto Vallarta, and neither has the Mexican government. However, the Canadian government's advisory urges Canadians to exercise caution and make decisions that align with their personal preferences and comfort levels.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has designated Mexico as a Level 3 travel advisory, indicating high levels of COVID-19 in the country. This advisory calls for increased risks for visitors and stringent government controls to manage those risks. While the advisory remains in effect, travellers to Mexico are advised to take precautions such as avoiding close contact with sick individuals, practising good hand hygiene, and avoiding isolated areas.

To ensure a safe trip to Puerto Vallarta, it is recommended to stay informed about the latest travel advisories and safety measures. By taking necessary precautions and staying vigilant, travellers can enjoy the beautiful city of Puerto Vallarta while minimising potential health risks.

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Tourist experiences and opinions

Tourists have expressed mixed feelings about travelling to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, with some feeling safe and enjoying their time in the city, while others have expressed concerns about the increasing number of COVID-19 cases and the presence of criminal activities.

Some tourists have shared positive experiences, describing Puerto Vallarta as a safe and welcoming place, even for solo female travellers and Black travellers. They commend the city for its beautiful beaches, exotic natural beauty, and world-class facilities, making it an ideal beach destination. The city has also been praised for its vibrant and friendly atmosphere, with helpful locals and a range of exciting activities, such as snorkelling, diving, and bungee jumping.

However, there are also concerns about safety in Puerto Vallarta. The US State Department has issued a Level 3 travel advisory for Mexico, advising travellers to "reconsider travel" due to crime and violence. While Puerto Vallarta is generally considered safer than other Mexican cities, there have been reports of petty crimes, such as theft and pickpocketing, as well as more serious incidents like robbery, assault, and kidnapping. Additionally, the presence of drug cartels and gang-related violence in certain areas of Mexico is a cause for concern.

Tourists are advised to take necessary precautions, such as staying in well-lit and populated areas, avoiding isolated spots, and not displaying valuables or large amounts of cash. It is also recommended to use official taxis and Ubers, especially at night, and to be cautious when approached by strangers offering help or selling drugs.

Despite the safety concerns, many tourists continue to visit Puerto Vallarta and have enjoyable experiences. The city's efforts to improve safety, including increased police presence and security measures, have been noted. Overall, tourists are encouraged to stay informed, follow local authorities' advice, and use common sense to ensure a safe and pleasant trip to Puerto Vallarta.

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Natural disasters and health concerns

It is important to be aware of potential natural disasters and health concerns when travelling to Puerto Vallarta. Floods have been the most damaging type of natural disaster in the area, with economic losses estimated at $32 million. To prepare for such events, authorities have developed evacuation plans, set up communication channels, and provided equipment and training for healthcare professionals.

There are several health concerns for tourists to be mindful of, including sun exposure, food hygiene, and insect bites. It is recommended to use sunscreen, drink bottled water, and apply insect repellent. Additionally, there is a risk of contracting mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and Zika virus, so it is important to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

To prevent health risks, it is advisable to create emergency kits, learn evacuation procedures, and be aware of potential communicable diseases such as cholera and typhoid fever. Mental well-being should also be prioritised, with access to counselling services for those who may be affected by natural disasters.

Overall, by staying informed and taking the necessary precautions, travellers can enjoy a safe and pleasant trip to Puerto Vallarta.

Frequently asked questions

Puerto Vallarta is generally considered a safe destination for travellers. However, tourists are advised to exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas, at night, and when using public transportation. Violent crime, petty theft, and petty crime are soaring in certain areas.

Here are some precautions you can take to ensure your safety in Puerto Vallarta:

- Stick to well-lit and populated areas at night.

- Avoid isolated spots, especially beaches or parks, after dark.

- Take registered taxis or Ubers to get around.

- Be cautious when walking alone on the beach.

- Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.

- Avoid isolated areas or areas with low visibility.

- Be wary of pickpockets and keep an eye on your belongings.

As of August 22, 2024, the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory for Mexico, including Puerto Vallarta, due to crime and violence. However, it is important to note that the incidence of criminal activity tends to be highly concentrated in areas that are not frequented by tourists.

The local authorities in Puerto Vallarta have implemented various security measures to ensure the safety of residents and visitors, including:

- Increased police presence in key locations, with extra officers and cameras surveying public areas.

- A dedicated tourist police division to assist visitors.

- Improved transportation system with GPS technology for safer rides.

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