The World Cup is approaching. Is it safe to attend it in Mexico?
One of the biggest sporting events is almost within reach. In just a few days, the 23rd FIFA World Cup will kick off. For Czech fans, this tournament is especially significant because, after twenty years, they will once again be able to watch Czech footballers in the world championship. The matches will be played in stadiums across the USA, Canada, and Mexico. While preparations, conditions, and the chances of individual teams winning are being discussed everywhere, fans are considering where exactly to head. Not all of them are tempted by a trip to Mexico. So, how is the safety situation in this country?
Mexico is known for its distinct flavors, colors, and exceptional places. However, many people tend to think of dangerous cartels, drugs, and increased crime rates. And they wouldn't be very far from the truth. If you are tempted to visit this country, it is essential to monitor the current situation and prepare adequately. Nevertheless, there is no reason to automatically dismiss Mexico. Millions of tourists visit each year without major issues, and during the World Cup, security measures will be even stricter than usual. So if you are planning to go for the football atmosphere in Mexico, it is worth reading up on what to watch out for and how to best prepare for the trip.
Kukulkan Plan
Ensuring the safety of fans is the number one priority. Mexico acknowledges this. That's why the country is launching the Kukulkan Plan, which aims to ensure safety throughout the entire championship. Dozens of state, federal, and local agencies, along with cooperative efforts from Canada and the United States, will be involved.
Security risks will be reduced by deploying police officers, including traffic and tourist police, special units, and aerial surveillance. Nearly one hundred thousand protective units will be deployed by the state across the three main cities: Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey.
According to CNN, experts believe that fans should be in relatively safe conditions. However, there are still concerns regarding other areas that could negatively impact tourists.
Various Risks
People need to be cautious about their tickets. While we are used to a few fake pre-sales back home, the chance of losing money here is somewhat higher.
“For example, if we talk about travel scams, fake tickets, fake tours, the targets of these scams are of course tourists, both domestic and international,”
said Professor Teresa Martínez.
This problem is being addressed with campaigns that encourage purchasing goods only from verified and official sources.
Another issue is human trafficking, which is very common in the country. There are concerns that increased visitation might boost demand.
“Let’s not deny that some people who come to host cities to watch football are also there to consume—and it's disgusting, but true—they will consume bodies they consider disposable,”
Watches and Chains Off
A vacation can be calm and very carefree, but only if you don't leave the resort. Beyond the gates and on your own, it might not be as much fun.
“In Mexico, there are tourist zones that are very safe because they are accessed through barriers, guarded by some local guards or security. Outside these zones, it's not advisable to carry expensive jewelry or watches since it's often the case that people might not return with them. So we took off our chains maybe when heading to the city at night, left the expensive watches behind, and went without them, to avoid unnecessarily attracting any locals.”
Michal from Brno shared his experience with Lp-life.cz.
As fans, you will very likely enjoy the championship in Mexico and take home memories for a lifetime. However, the basic rule of success is not to underestimate the situation, to follow the recommendations of the foreign ministry, and to adhere to basic safety rules.
Sources: author's text, CNN, mzv.gov.cz, iprima
