Canadians in parts of Mexico have been told to shelter in place after violence broke out following the reported killing of cartel leader Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as El Mencho. The unrest spread to areas including Puerto Vallarta, a popular tourist destination.
Francis Perry, who is from Vancouver Island and spends his winters in Puerto Vallarta, said he plans to stay calm. On Sunday, he started seeing videos of fires and gunfire in the streets. He described the scene as “pretty crazy” and said it looked like a war zone at times. Still, he and his partner stayed indoors and did not feel unsafe. By Monday, he said things seemed quieter, although some burned buses and cars remained nearby.
Travel advisor Frances Gertsch said some Canadians in Mexico are shaken but are following safety advice and staying inside. She noted that Mexico remains a popular vacation spot and said travellers should pay attention to government updates and be aware of their surroundings.
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand said more than 26,000 Canadians in Mexico have registered with Global Affairs Canada, though the real number is likely higher.
Several airlines, including Air Canada and WestJet, have cancelled flights to and from Puerto Vallarta. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said flights should resume soon.
Perry said he has no plans to leave early and hopes things will return to normal.
