Digital News Report- The Justice Department’s Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has warned travelers against visiting certain parts of Mexico due to recent drug-fueled violence. Areas targeted include Rosarito Beach, wich is a popular hot spot for college students during spring break, and Tijuana, which lies just across the border from San Diego, California.
Mayor Hugo Torres, stated, “For decades Rosarito has hosted hundreds of thousands of spring breakers without major incident. With additional steps we have taken, such as starting a Tourist Police Force, they will be safer than ever this year and we look forward to welcoming them and ensuring they again have a safe and enjoyable visit.”
According to the U. S State Department, more than 100,000 American teenagers and young adults, many of them college students, travel to Mexican resort areas over Spring Break every year. To help keep students safe, the State Department has the “Spring Break in Mexico-‘Know Before you Go’ ” Web site, which provides tips and advice for staying safe. The website also has specific information for certain locations, such Tijuana and Rosarito Beach.
“They’re seeing bloodshed after bloodshed, kidnappings, extortions, you name it, its happening,” said Williams Hoover from the ATF.
Martin Gonzales, Director of Mexican Tourism for southern states, said, “We don’t deny violence is happening, but it’s drug related. It’s not violence that you’ll feel everyday in main destinations.”