For the last several years, right about this time, we are told by law enforcement that Mexico as a spring break destination is a no-go. This year, the Mexican government asked The Texas Department of Public Safety to give it's country's mega-resorts, Cancun and Cabo, and other, a pass.
Tech student Amaris Garcia just landed back on U.S. soil two days ago, from Mexico.
"It is my first time to actually go to Mexico," she said. "I was a little bit scared going over there, because of the things I have heard."
Mexico is visually appealing, full of white sand and crystal blue water, a frequent dream of college students. Resort cities in Mexico are party destinations
"Mexico is really fun and it's really pretty," Garcia said.
But for the last several years, the number of American deaths in Mexico has skyrocketed. In 2011, 120 U.S.travelers were murdered. Texas Tech Vice Provost for International Affairs, Tibor Nagy, said that's why they are sending a warning to students.
"We are cautioning everyone not to travel to Mexico," he said. "The State Department has put out a very frank travel warning."
The warning says there were almost 13,000 drug-related homicides in 2011. It also suggests that travelers avoid 14 Mexican states, four more than the previous year.
The Texas DPS has issued its own alert, despite requests from the Mexican government that it not do so. DPS Director Steven C. McCraw said he commends Mexico's government and its efforts to battle the violence. But he still offers a warning to potential visitors.
"Many crimes against Americans in Mexico go unpunished, and we have a responsibility to inform the public about safety and travel risks and threats. Based on the unpredictable nature of cartel violence and other criminal elements, we are urging individuals to avoid travel to Mexico at this time."
Nagy said, "Previously, tourist destinations weren't considered dangerous, but just this past year Acapulco has had 1200 murders."
Garcia, who stayed at a resort, said she felt safe.
"I have friends from Mexico, and I never hear anything negative coming from them, and actually going over there, there was nothing to be afraid of."
Some Tech students said partying on the beach is ideal, but violent headlines not so much.
"I probably wouldn't go myself."
"Everything is getting bad. I don't think it is worth going over there."
"I'm a criminal justice major, and the statistics have gone up in Mexico, especially Mexico City they are always looking for tourists who go there."
Nagy said, "If they do decide to go to Mexico, look at the areas that are most dangerous, which are considered less dangerous, and to know where there U.S. Representatives are, whether it's a consultant and Embassy or a Consultant agent."
Some "Know Before You Go" tips include: signing up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. Make sure you know where the nearest consulate is,, and remember, when you are in Mexico you are subject to Mexican law.
For a complete list of everything you need or just want to know about international travel, click on the panel titled Seen on FOX 34 on the right-hand side of this page.
