Things Mexico advises UK tourists after the volcanic eruptions

Saturday, March 2, 2024

The British Foreign Office has recently updated its travel guidance for individuals planning to visit Mexico, due to the disruption caused by volcanic ash, which has led to grounded flights. Those heading to the airport are advised to directly verify the status of their flights. Specifically, travel to Mexico City from Gatwick Airport now necessitates at least one stopover, while direct flights are available from Heathrow Airport via Aeromexico.

Travel recommendations and their impact

These advisories come in addition to existing travel warnings across various Mexican states, where the Foreign Office discourages all but essential travel due to safety concerns. States such as Baja California, Chihuahua, and Guerrero, among others, are noted for potential armed conflicts and security issues, including illegal roadblocks and kidnappings. The guidance emphasizes the importance of caution outside of tourist zones and recommends organizing activities through reputable companies or local guides. Armed robbery and shootouts along trafficking routes further necessitate vigilance.

Detailed travel restrictions

The Foreign Office has specified areas within several states where travel should be avoided unless necessary. In Baja California, travel advisories apply to the city of Tijuana, except for certain exceptions like airside transit through Tijuana airport and the Cross Border Xpress bridge. Similar advisories are in place for the state of Chihuahua, excluding the city of Chihuahua itself and certain roads and border crossings. The state of Colima sees advisories, except for the city of Manzanillo. Other states with partial travel advisories include Guanajuato, Guerrero, Jalisco, Michoacán, Sinaloa, and Tamaulipas, with specific exemptions detailed for each.

Tourism and travel implications

The updated travel advice from the Foreign Office is expected to have significant implications for tourism in Mexico. The restrictions and advisories could deter potential visitors, impacting the flow of tourists to the country and consequently affecting the local economy and airline tourism. The warnings about safety concerns and the necessity for caution may lead travelers to reconsider their plans or seek alternative destinations, potentially reducing the number of international flights to affected areas.

On the other hand, clear communication about safe zones and recommended precautions could help maintain a level of tourism by guiding travelers towards areas deemed secure and away from high-risk regions. This approach helps preserve the viability of Mexico’s tourist attractions while ensuring the safety of visitors. As the situation evolves, the effectiveness of these advisories in balancing safety with the promotion of tourism will be closely watched by both travelers and industry stakeholders.

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