As Americans begin to finalize their summer vacation plans, a travel advisor is offering safety tips for those heading to Mexico’s pristine shores that are often frequented by Hollywood stars.
Fox News Digital spoke with Sandra Awodele, the creator behind COI Traveler, a growing travel blog and platform, about what Americans should be wary of ahead of their summer trips to Mexico.
“People love Mexico because it’s a good time, it’s affordable, and it’s driveable,” she said. “But they should be cautious of theft, scams and cartel violence.”
The travel expert’s tips come as the U.S. State Department, in conjunction with the U.S. Embassy in Mexico, has issued an urgent travel warning for Baja California Sur, La Paz, Los Cabos, Cabo San Lucas due to escalating security concerns in these popular tourist destinations.
The travel alert reported that cartels have made threats against officials. It added that Americans in Cabo San Lucas, San Jose del Cabo, and La Paz should “expect to see increased security presence [and] public transportation restrictions.”
The U.S. Department of State issues travel advisories for each of Mexico’s 32 states based on varying safety conditions. The advisory for Baja California Sur has been raised to “exercise increased caution.”
Other popular tourist destinations in Mexico, such as Mexico City, Quintana Roo and Nayarit, are also under similar advisories.
Celebrities have long flocked to Mexico for its luxurious resorts, stunning beaches, and private retreats.
Tulum, located on the Caribbean coast, has been frequented by stars like Jennifer Aniston and Paris Hilton. Celebrities like the Kardashians, Lady Gaga and Beyoncé have been known to frequent Punta Mita, a private peninsula on the Pacific coast.