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Travel Advice

A sustained period of torrential rain has caused the worst flooding ever experienced in Tabasco State. Mexican authorities report that approximately 500,000 people have been affected. The State Governor has declared a state of emergency. Travellers in the affected area should keep in close touch with their travel operators and follow the advice of the Mexican authorities, who are responding to the situation.

Hurricane Dean hit Mexico on 21 August. There has been significant damage to infrastructure in the areas south of Tulum (including Tulum City) in the state of Quintana Roo; the State of Campeche; and the possibility of damage in the State of Veracruz. British nationals travelling to these areas should exercise caution.

The hurricane season in Mexico normally runs from June to November and can affect both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts.

Travellers are advised to exercise caution when travelling to Oaxaca City. Since May 2006, there have been protests in the city of Oaxaca, some of which have turned violent. The situation is currently calm, but there is the potential for further demonstrations and disturbances, which could become violent.

The rest of the state of Oaxaca (including the resorts of Puerto Escondido and Huatulco) is largely unaffected. Travellers are advised to monitor local media reports if travelling to, or through, Oaxaca State.

Most visits are trouble-free, but crime and kidnappings are on the increase. Travellers should be particularly alert in tourist areas (especially on public transport and when dealing with real or purported policemen) and exercise caution when withdrawing money from cash points or exchanging money at bureaux de change.

The threat from terrorism is low. But travellers should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners. On 6 November 2006 three small bombs exploded in Mexico City at dawn, one outside the Mexican Electoral Tribunal, one at the headquarters of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) and a third in a Scotia Bank branch in the south of the city. There were no casualties. Groups who claim they are connected with the protests in Oaxaca have claimed responsibility.

Dengue Fever is endemic to Latin America and the Caribbean and can occur throughout the year. There has been a marked increase in the number of reported cases of dengue in 2007.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisaions for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel