2008 Woodie Awards
Spring Break travel: not so safe
Consuelo Hernandez
Issue date: 3/6/06 Section: News
Students experience freedom and leisure during Spring Break. Many will travel abroad and enjoy paradise-like beaches and landscapes along with the excitement of discovering new territories.
Unfortunately, living such a dream might cause pain, despair and even death to some of those students if awareness is not observed.
Mexico is a favorite spot of students because of its inexpensive rates and tourist-packed beaches.
One of the major attractions is the legal drinking age of 18; students who are unable to drink in the united states. are able to consume alcohol.
However, students should be aware that crimes related to alcohol are severely punished in Mexico. According to the U.S. Department of State, disturbing the peace, lewd or indecent behavior, driving under the influence, drinking on the street or on public transportation, using public transportation without payment, or making obscene or insulting remarks are all considered criminal activities by Mexican authorities. The crimes are punishable with high fines and, in some cases, jail time.
Students should also be aware that anyone 16 or older who commits a crime in Mexico will be tried as an adult.
In recent years, criminal activities, such as kidnapping and drug dealing, have risen dramatically in Mexico. According to Mexican authorities, tourists make good prey for criminals because most of them are not used to living in places where crime is high, therefore, they often ignore safety precautions.
To avoid becoming a victim of a crime, students should avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying flashy accessories while walking on the street.
They should also walk on well-lit streets and busy avenues and be aware of their surroundings. They must exercise caution when talking to strangers and avoid being alone, especially in secluded areas.
The Department of State warns travelers about the use of unauthorized taxicabs and advises them to ask the hotel to call a licensed taxicab.
Unfortunately, living such a dream might cause pain, despair and even death to some of those students if awareness is not observed.
Mexico is a favorite spot of students because of its inexpensive rates and tourist-packed beaches.
One of the major attractions is the legal drinking age of 18; students who are unable to drink in the united states. are able to consume alcohol.
However, students should be aware that crimes related to alcohol are severely punished in Mexico. According to the U.S. Department of State, disturbing the peace, lewd or indecent behavior, driving under the influence, drinking on the street or on public transportation, using public transportation without payment, or making obscene or insulting remarks are all considered criminal activities by Mexican authorities. The crimes are punishable with high fines and, in some cases, jail time.
Students should also be aware that anyone 16 or older who commits a crime in Mexico will be tried as an adult.
In recent years, criminal activities, such as kidnapping and drug dealing, have risen dramatically in Mexico. According to Mexican authorities, tourists make good prey for criminals because most of them are not used to living in places where crime is high, therefore, they often ignore safety precautions.
To avoid becoming a victim of a crime, students should avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying flashy accessories while walking on the street.
They should also walk on well-lit streets and busy avenues and be aware of their surroundings. They must exercise caution when talking to strangers and avoid being alone, especially in secluded areas.
The Department of State warns travelers about the use of unauthorized taxicabs and advises them to ask the hotel to call a licensed taxicab.
