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As the peak winter and fall holiday travel season gets into full gear, the municipal and state government in Playa del Carmen is increasing the availability of law enforcement to provide safety and security to tourists during the busy visitor season.
According to the State of Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama, the focus of the additional law enforcement is to guarantee security and peace to the people of Playa del Carmen and the thousands of tourists who visit Playa del Carmen during the holiday season.
Police Patrols Hit the Streets
Initially, law enforcement in the municipality will be increased by 20 patrol officers during the busy travel period that started this week.
Local officials added that additional funds were available for the safety and security of travelers and locals if there was a need for more law enforcement patrols.
The added security was not due to any specific threat against the area but was a proactive measure to protect tourists enjoying their vacation getaway in the popular beach resort destination.
Crime Prevention Programs
The additional patrols are one of many measures taken recently to prevent crime and increase the safety level of the area for visitors.
There are also plans to add additional police stations, vehicles, and technology deployment in the area and across the Mexican Caribbean to protect tourists.
The municipal and state governments have committed to ensuring tourism in the area has adequate protection and safety so tourists from around the world can enjoy Playa del Carmen without any threats of violence or worry.
They have declared that officials are dedicated to making sure that the tourist centers in Quintana Roo, including Playa del Carmen, remain vigilant to be leaders of safe and secure tourism in Mexico and Latin America.
Exercised Increased Caution
The United States Department of State is currently monitoring the situation in Quintana Roo, which includes the municipality of Playa del Carmen in addition to popular tourist hotspots Cancun and Tulum.
The travel alert is unchanged since August 22 of this year, when the State Department advised travelers in Playa del Carmen to use situational awareness because violence and crime can occur anytime, including in the popular tourist area.
Additionally, travelers to Quintana Roo have been caught in the middle of fights between rival gangs, including United States citizens.
They further advise in the travel advisory that travelers exercise increased caution in areas of Playa del Carmen, especially after dark, and remain in well-lit pedestrian zones and tourist areas for their safety and security.
Register For the STEP System
It is also advised that travelers to Playa del Carmen register for the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) system that allows United States consulate officials in Merida, which serves Quintana Roo, to alert travelers to the area about safety and security concerns and other news.
It also enables the consulate to know about visitors to the area and enables contact with friends and family in the event of an emergency.
What Travelers Need to Know To Stay Safe
The added police patrols should help tourists to Playa del Carmen feel safer and secure enjoying their vacation getaway to the popular beach resort destination in Mexico.
Despite this, travelers should still take standard precautions when visiting any big city, such as using hotel safes for valuables, not wearing any expensive jewelry, avoid carrying large quantities of cash and be generally aware of their surroundings.
They should also follow the recommendations of the United States Department of State and stick to well-lit tourist areas in Playa del Carmen after dark.
Travelers should report any type of questionable activity to local law enforcement. The concept of see something, say something applies even in Mexico.
Visitors to Playa del Carmen should also consider getting travel insurance to protect themselves in the event of a loss from theft.
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