Come On Down!

Article from Los Cabos Magazine Issue 45, Winter 2017

While there are legitimate concerns about travel to some parts of México, Los Cabos remains a safe and secure destination

By Fernando Rodríguez. 

The U.S. State Department regularly publishes information about travel destinations throughout the world, including advisories, warnings, and restrictions. In its latest post regarding travel to México, the State Department focused much of its attention on the Zika virus that is affecting some parts of the country—not Los Cabos—as well as the cartel-related violence that has dominated headlines despite its affecting only a limited percentage of the nation.

The State Department advised caution for those traveling to La Paz—the capital city of Baja California Sur—which is roughly two hours north of Cabo San Lucas. This is primarily due to a spike in crime that lasted from late summer 2014 to the fall of 2015. Travel to Los Cabos, however, included no such warning. In fact, the only mention of it was: “Cabo San Lucas and La Paz are major cities/travel destinations in the state of Southern Baja California.”

So, what does this mean? Simply put: Travel to Los Cabos is safe.

And, it’s worth noting, travel to La Paz is now considered safe once again with its crime rates similar to—or better than—those of many major U.S. cities. For more information on La Paz, visit http://en.golapaz.com. There has been a concerted effort to protect and reassure visitors and travelers. That effort includes an increased presence of federal soldiers, marines, and the navy.

The Zika virus continues to concern people in several countries, but there have—as of press time—been no reported cases of the virus anywhere in the Baja Peninsula or in the states nearest to it.

If you’re reading this article, the chances are you’re probably already in Los Cabos or, at least seriously considering it. Well, you’re in good company. As of 2014, México is once again one of the top-10 tourist destinations in the world. When it comes to travel from the United States, México has regained its title as the top foreign destination with 25.4 million Americans choosing to pay it a visit. Baja California Sur is home to 10 of the country’s best beaches (for more on that, read “Raise the Flag” on page 50).

There are coordinated local, state, and federal efforts to keep Los Cabos safe, secure, and fun for travelers and residents. The marines and navy have a constant presence on Médano Beach—the most popular and swimmable beach in Cabo San Lucas proper—as well along the Cabo San Lucas Marina. They’re joined by Los Cabos’ special tourism police, who are fluent in English and focused on protecting visitors’ safety.

Travelers can also take measures to ensure their safety while on vacation in Los Cabos—or, really, anywhere. Exercise good decision-making: Don’t overdo it on sunning, drinking, or partying. If you’re wanting to explore the Baja outback, do so with a certified guide. We have a directory of activities on page 54. And when you decide to enjoy the waters that surround the Baja Peninsula, stick to the Sea of Cortés side. The lapping Pacific Ocean looks inviting, but it’s much too dangerous for swimming in most parts, thanks to its strong waves and riptides. And, of course, stay hydrated.

Need even more reassurance? Here are a few words from Los Cabos Secretary of Tourism Miroslava Bautista Sánchez: “México is a big, incredibly diverse country, so drug violence along the border does not have any effect on a vacation in Los Cabos. Thousands of flights, cruise lines, and private yachts choose Los Cabos as their travel destination. Why? Because Los Cabos is a symbol of a peaceful place to visit and to live.”

For an archive of safety-related articles from Los Cabos Magazine, please visit www.loscabosmagazine.com/blogs /safe-travel.