Safety in Mexico seems to be a hot topic these days. Recent news and media on the drug violence and safety of Mexico has travelers debating on whether they should travel in Mexico.  While it goes without saying that people should to travel cautiously, as they would in any other foreign country, it’s also important to know the facts about Mexico and the areas to visit and avoid.

Lonely Planet provides some stats and insight on safety and traveling to Mexico, which puts things in perspective.

One interesting fact is shows that U.S. travelers to Mexico are less likely to face violence in Mexico than at home, especially when looking at Mexico’s popular travel destinations.

“Non-essential” travel warnings include only 4 out of 31 northern states in Mexico, which include Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango and Tamaulipas, while warnings against travel include only parts of the popular tourist locations such as Cancun, Cozumel, Mazatlan, Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit and Tulum.

13 states in Mexico are fully free from any travel warnings. These states include Baja California Sur, Yucatan, Mexico City, Chiapas, Guanajuato and Oaxaca (where President Obama’s daughter, Malia, recently visited).

Millions of travelers visit Mexico each year and have fun, safe and enjoyable experiences.  Mexico is, and continues to be one of the most popular locations for Canadian and American travelers wishing for beautiful sandy beaches and a culturally rich travel experience.

For more information visit Lonely Planet.