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Cancun is ramping up security measures to protect travelers ahead of what analysts say will be a busy summer season for the coastal city.
This week, the state governor of Quintana Roo proclaimed the start of the annual summer security operation, which sees the deployment of hundreds of troops to guarantee a safe experience for visitors.
New forecasts show that over two million international travelers will flock to Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean this summer.
More than 400 additional reinforcements are being deployed across the region this summer, joining the ranks of local and state police, who will work hand in hand to protect travelers.
With that in mind, here’s the latest on Cancun’s new security efforts and what they mean for travelers.
Fresh Law Enforcement Deployment Bolster Safety For Millions Of Cancun Summer Travelers
Despite being far quieter than the hectic high season, summer ranks as one of the most popular times to visit Cancun; from sunny days by the beach to touring the region’s Mayan ruins, the period from late July to August is a great time to enjoy the Mexican Caribbean.
And with over 2 million visitors expected to set foot in the sun-soaked region over the next month and a half, local officials are implementing campaigns to bolster safety and deter criminals.
This week, Governor Mara Lezama welcomed the start of Cancun’s annual summer security operation.
This operation involves the deployment of troops and specialized law enforcement officers from the federal government to patrol the city’s touristy areas.
The operation is designed to be a powerful deterrent against organized crime and other security threats, particularly those targeting visitors.
According to Governor Lezama, reinforcements from the federal government will maintain a visible presence across all of the region’s tourist hotspots; from Cancun’s packed beaches to Playa del Carmen’s bustling Fifth Avenue, travelers can expect to encounter more law enforcement officers this summer.
In a press interview, Governor Lezama added that over 430 National Guard troops, as well as 96 tactical units, will help reinforce the security efforts of over 1,700 local-level officers.
Altogether, Cancun’s security impetus represents a sizeable contingent, tangibly improving safety for millions of visitors.
A novelty from this year’s summer safety operation is the use of drones and other high-tech measures to survey busy touristy areas. From monitoring traffic to weeding out pickpockets and other petty crimes, new investments are paving the way for a safer visitor experience.
With Cancun’s travel numbers skyrocketing this year – visitor numbers have soared by over 5% compared to last summer – safety is more important than ever, officials say, as the coastal hotspot seeks to reinforce its reputation as a safe and welcoming destination.
And while Cancun and other nearby hotspots remain among the safest in Mexico for international travel, visitors still play a big role in ensuring a hassle-free holiday.
Earlier this week, local officials launched a new campaign aimed at raising awareness over online scams. The new Verify and Travel initiative provides travelers with a host of resources to make booking accommodation and activities safer.
Beyond online bookings, it’s important for travelers to also remain aware of their surroundings at all times when enjoying Cancun, for even in touristy areas pickpockets and other petty crimes can occur.
The 2024 summer season is expected to be one of the busiest on record for Cancun, with resorts already seeing occupancy rates of nearly 70%. That number is expected to climb closer to 90% as the season approaches.
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Alan Carnegie
Sunday 14th of July 2024
That’s all good but what are you doing about those taxi drivers who take advantage of the tourists? This is ongoing robbery by those taxi drivers. ( I realize not all are crooked but too many are)