Syracuse, N.Y. (NCC News) —
© 2026 Sophia O’Brien
As temperatures in Syracuse ever so slowly start to climb, thousands of SU students are packing their bags for somewhere significantly warmer. But the temperature isn’t the only thing heating up; travel concerns surrounding Mexico, one of the most popular spring break destinations, rise due to increased criminal activity and violence across the country.
A travel advisory was issued after the ongoing search for notorious drug lord, Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, came to an end on February 22nd, 2026. Mexican authorities confirmed the killing of Cervantes, better known as “El Mencho,” last week, sending a string of violent crimes throughout the country. The Jalisco New Generation Cartel took a major blow and sparked fears of retaliatory violence, possibly affecting both tourists and locals.
VIDEO TRANSCRIPTION: Spring Break has Sprung with some Travel Concerns
Sophia O’Brien: Whether it’s by bus, car, or flight, students at Syracuse University are heading
off campus. As spring break approaches, so do the concerns of travel, especially internationally.
As violence in Mexico rises since Mexican authorities killed the drug lord known as El Mencho
last week, a travel advisory was put in place as more than a million expected Americans head
down south for spring break. But the travel advisory isn’t stopping SU student Faith Sharp, who is heading out of Mexico in just a few days.
Faith Sharpe: My parents are there right now and they have been for the past two weeks. This is
also the third time that I’m going to this area, so I feel very safe and secure in the fact that like
my family’s there right now.
Sophia O’Brien: Now, Mexico weather is drastically different than our not always beautiful
Syracuse weather, so make sure you pack your passport, shorts, and sunglasses, and soak up
the sun if you can. But make sure to be vigilant if you’re heading down south. Authorities urge
travelers to not stray from the beaten path and get reliable information and directions when
there. So zip up your suitcase, head to the airport, and have safe travels. Sharp isn’t going to the exact
high-risk areas Cancun, Cabo, Cozumel, and the Riviera Maya. Authorities say that any travelers
on beach locations should stay alert and aware, but Sharp doesn’t seem too concerned.
Sharpe: The area that I’m going to is not a super touristy area, and it’s also not a major city, so
it’s a concern, but I don’t think anything’s actually going to happen. I’m not stressed out about
it.
O’Brien: Spring break takes off in just a few days. Students are urged to stay aware of their surroundings, stay informed, and prepare for a week away from campus.
I’m Sophia O’Brien, NCC News.
Now this advisory isn’t stopping SU student Faith Sharpe, as she heads to Mexico in just a few days.
“I feel very safe and secure in the fact that like my family’s there right now” – Faith Sharpe, SU Student
The highest-risk areas, Cancún, Cabo San Lucas, Cozumel, and the Riviera Maya, are the most popular destinations for spring break travel. Although those are the highest risk areas, most beach destinations have been flagged by authorities. Those who plan to travel to beach destinations in these regions are advised to plan ahead and take extra precautions.
Safety Travel Tips
- Stay on well-traveled areas
- Seek reliable local guidance
- Keep your belongings secure
- Stay informed and updated on any incidents in the area
- Keep trusted contacts updated on your whereabouts
- Travel in groups
- Make sure your cellphone is charged
- Communicate your locations