As spring break season approaches, travelers are urged to exercise caution when planning their trips. The U.S. is part of the U.S. The Department of State has issued a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" warning for seven states in Mexico, including Guerrero, Colima, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas due to crime and kidnapping. An additional seven states in Mexico have a Level 3 "reconsider travel" warning, including Baja California, Chihuahua, Durango, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Morelos and Sonora. Tourists are urged to use increased vigilance while visiting popular tourist spots such as Cancun and Riviera Maya. The State Department also recommends registering for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) which can provide notifications about safety conditions in the destination country and help friends and family reach travelers if needed.
In addition to Mexico, the State Department has issued "do not travel" advisories for other countries such as Iran, Afghanistan, Yemen, Libya, Venezuela, Ukraine and Russia. For those looking to travel in Europe, the State Department recommends exercising more caution due to terrorism risks. Advisories Level 1 - "Exercise normal precautions" are in place for countries such as the Czech Republic, Greece, Switzerland, Portugal, Iceland, Canada, Australia, Bermuda, Barbados, the Cayman Islands, Fiji and New Zealand.
Meanwhile, the tragic abduction and death of two Americans near the US-Mexico border has raised questions about the lack of response by the US government. Anthony Bruno from Smithtown believes that the President should have responded with a "swift and significant response" to the tragedy. Andre Montero from Brooklyn claims that despite predictions of mass destruction, the impacts of global warming on the environment have been minimal. Dionne Johnson from Valley Stream argues that modernizing Belmont Park would provide more well-paying jobs to New Yorkers. Kevin O'Leary of Kew Gardens lastly thinks that those involved in the destruction of Fish Village Restaurant should be arrested and sent to jail, regardless of their age.
Travelers must be aware of the risks associated with their destination this spring break season and take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety as they consider their options.