North Texas residents are increasingly questioning their travel plans to Mexico as reports of cartel-related violence have resurfaced following the alleged death of high-profile cartel leader El Mencho. Despite U.S. officials lifting travel restrictions in several Mexican cities, travel agents say concerns about safety are growing among potential travelers, particularly those planning Spring Break trips.

Travel Advisories and Safety Concerns

According to Nathan Jones, a nonresident scholar in drug policy and Mexico studies at Rice University’s Baker Institute, the situation in Mexico is far more detailed than some may assume. He cautioned against oversimplifying the country’s security challenges.

“Mexico is a very complex country, and it can’t necessarily just be painted with an incredibly broad brush,” Jones said. “As an American, in terms of understanding where you would be safe, look at the State Department. Mexico is the only country that provides specific state-by-state travel advisories.”

Travel Industry Response

On Wednesday, the U.S. Embassy and consulates in Mexico lifted restrictions in the most affected cities. However, North Texas travel agencies say they have not seen a significant drop in calls from worried travelers.

Catherine Banks, a travel agent with Legacy Travel in Plano, said that even travelers with summer vacations already booked are reaching out with concerns.

“There are nervous travelers, and so of course we hear from them,” Banks said. “We’ve heard from people who have trips this summer to Mexico, which of course is crazy.”

Despite the concerns, flights from DFW to Mexico are largely operating normally, and with Spring Break just weeks away, many travelers are weighing whether to proceed with their plans.

Travel Advice and Comfort Levels

Banks said her advice for most destinations has not changed, emphasizing that certain areas remain safe for travel.

“If you are planning to go to Puerto Vallarta, absolutely still go,” she said. “If you’re going anywhere else in Mexico, if you’re going tomorrow, I would say absolutely still go. It’s the same as it was the day you booked it.”

Travel advisors across the region are advising travelers to consider their personal comfort levels when making decisions about their trips.

“At the end of the day, you have to do what you are comfortable doing,” Banks said. “If you simply cannot abide sticking with your original plans, then for your own mental health, you’re going to need to rearrange those.”

For those who do decide to proceed with their trips, travel experts recommend staying informed about the latest travel advisories and local conditions.

The U.S. State Department continues to provide detailed travel guidance for Mexico, with specific advisories for each state. Travelers are encouraged to consult these resources before making final decisions.

With Spring Break approaching, the travel industry is closely monitoring the situation, waiting to see if the violence escalates or if new developments emerge that could affect travel plans.