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BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 26, 2023

With good reason, Mexico is one of the most sought-after travel destinations worldwide. However, not every area of Mexico is secure for tourists. Today, we will talk about the most dangerous cities in Mexico. According to the World of Statistics, nine Mexican cities are among the world's ten deadliest in 2022. There have been 512 homicides reported through the first seven months of the year, or an average of 73.1 per month. The murders are steadily on track to match or marginally exceed those numbers in 2023. The previous year saw 887 murders or an average of 73.91 homicides per month. Most Dangerous Cities In Mexico A recent study on wisevoter.com found that there were 36,579 murders in Mexico. This corresponded to the 4th-highest murder rate in the world, 28.37 per 100,000 people. The study found that men are eight times more likely than women to become murder victims. Here are some of the most dangerous cities in Mexico that you could wisely avoid if you are planning to visit: Acapulco Despite being one of the most dangerous cities in Mexico, Acapulco continues to draw large numbers of tourists due to its beaches. The rate of homicide in the city is 111 per 100,000 residents. Drug-related violence in Acapulco has increased dramatically as different cartels compete for control of the lucrative drug trade in the city. This city is located in Guerrero, a notorious state well-known for its high rates of violence. It witnesses regular chaos brought on by gang turf wars and heroin production. Tijuana Tijuana's high murder rate and drug-related violence make it the most dangerous city in Mexico. There are 138 homicides for every 100,000 people. Tijuana is the main gateway for drugs originating in South America, making it a hub for cartel activity. Due to its proximity to the US border, it is also a significant hub for organized crime and human trafficking. Based on data on homicide rates, Tijuana is the world's most dangerous city. Ciudad Victoria Ciudad Victoria, one of the most violent cities in Mexico, is situated in the state of Tamaulipas. This area is another hotbed of drug-related violence, with a homicide rate of 86 per 100,000 residents. Located just beyond the U.S. border, Tamaulipas makes it an entryway city as well. In Ciudad Victoria, members of the Northeast Cartel actively manage their businesses. Irapuato Irapuato, in the central state of Guanajuato, has witnessed a surge in drug-related homicides over the last three years. With a homicide rate of 81 per 100,000 residents, the city is among the least safe places for visitors. Even regrettably so for the residents who live there. Turf wars between the Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel and the Jalisco Cartel New Generation are primarily to blame for the murders that occur here. Cancun A spate of shootings, robberies, and attacks on tourists in Cancun were linked to cartels. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has recently issued a warning to travelers about the travel risks. This city is notorious for its high levels of violence. Yet it is far less deadly than other Mexican cities, with a homicide rate of 64 per 100,000 people. Uruapan For a mountainside city in Michoacan, Uruapan has seen a steady rise in violence; sadly, it appears that this violence will only get worse. This once peaceful town is now home to rival cartels that frequently switch names and hands. Killings take place in the most inconspicuous places, like bars and arcades. The current homicide rate in Uruapan is 55 per 100,000 residents. Culiacan Formerly regarded as a moderately dangerous city, Culiacan is currently the scene of a fatal conflict.  It happened after the apprehension of Ovidio Guzman, the son of cartel leader El Chapo. The city is Sinaloa's central city and has a homicide rate of 61 per 100,000 residents. Because of the Sinaloa Cartel's stronghold over the city and its populace, visiting tourists face extreme danger. Cuidad Obregon Sonora's second-biggest city, Cuidad Obregon, has gained notoriety recently. It ranks as the world's fourth most dangerous city in 2022. Not only has there been an increase in violence in Ciudad Obregon but also in the neighborhood of Cajame, which is the southernmost part of the state. It will take time to determine whether this sharp rise in crime will hold. There are currently 52 homicides for every 100,000 residents. Celaya According to the accounts, more than a thousand people were killed brutally every year. Theft, drug sales, and human trafficking have all increased, so the story is far from over. Taking a vacation in Celaya is risky. Celaya has 109.38 killings per 100,000 residents, making it one of the world's most dangerous cities right now. Coatzacoalcos Once a bustling tourist destination in Veracruz, Coatzacoalcos has a homicide rate of 48 per 100,000 residents. Perpetrators left nine bodies on the street. Among the top ten most dangerous cities in Mexico is this one because of murder, violent crime, and robbery. Ensenada The only other regions of Mexico with official travel advisories or restrictions are those located 1,400 miles away. Reports from the press and locals indicate a rise in violence. Locals and tourists, however, have not been impacted by this unrest. Violent killings have increased in Ensenada and Tijuana over the past few months, primarily occurring outside of the city center and at night. Although there are some risks in the unguarded neighborhoods further out, the city center is still very safe. Travel through the Vine Valley or on day trips are usually safe. Reynosa Reynosa is a prominent urban center located directly across the Rio Grande from the US border. Unfortunately, because of ongoing conflicts between criminal gangs, it has gained a reputation as one of Mexico's most dangerous cities. Traveling to this area due to the ongoing security concerns is high risk. However, it's crucial to understand that Reynosa, despite its unflattering reputation, is an important industrial center for the Rio Grande Valley and Northern Tamaulipas. The city drives a number of industrial activities and acts as a vital link in cross-border trade and commerce, significantly impacting the region's economic landscape. Reynosa continues to play an important role in connecting and promoting economic development in this region of Mexico, even with the ongoing security concerns. Chihuahua Due to concerns about crime and kidnapping, the U.S. State Department advises travelers to "Reconsider Travel" to Chihuahua. There is a lot of violent crime and gang activity in the area. Travelers should exercise caution even though the majority of criminal organizations commit murders that are targeted assassinations. Drug-related violence has escalated dramatically in northern Mexico over the last twelve years, especially in Chihuahua. Despite being relatively safer than other cities in the area, cartel violence is still a problem in Chihuahua. It's crucial to remember that most killings target drug dealers and their families; violent crimes rarely target tourists. There are military checkpoints throughout the city and its environs, and adherence to them is required. Wrapping Up It's critical to keep in mind that even though the state has a high rate of crime, not all of it is dangerous. For example, Illinois is not always a crime hotspot just because Chicago is. When it comes to organized crime and corruption, Tijuana, Ciudad Juarez, Victoria, Reynosa, and Culiacan are typically the worst cartel cities in Mexico. While you're organizing your next vacation, we hope this article will be helpful to you in determining which areas of Mexico are dangerous. If the location you're interested in doesn't appear on this list, it's probably not in one of Mexico's most dangerous regions. And as long as you exercise common sense caution, you should be alright. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about the most dangerous cities in Mexico, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Navigating The Unseen: Exploring The Most Dangerous Country In The World Heatwaves And Adventure: Traveling To The World’s Hottest Destination Crime And Caution: Navigating The Dark Side Of California’s Cities Is Costa Rica Safe For Visit For Travelling?

BY  Sibashree Jan 17, 2025

The next location we planned to cover during a USA tour was New Orleans. This time, we discovered how a city with a rich culture cares so much about children.  Along with its heritage, architecture, and a culture that feels like a warm embrace, the kid-friendly activities also make this Louisiana city a popular tourist destination.  However, this time as I pen the things to do in New Orleans with kids, my heart feels heavy. A deadly terror attack on Bourbon Street and the police shoot-out following that have taken the lives of at least 14 people on 2nd January 2025.  Still, the city is on the mend, and everyone is hoping high for the stability of the tourism economy of the city. It’s difficult, considering the city has yet to recover in tourism and finances since the COVID-19 days fully.  Apologies for the grim start! However, as travelers, you cannot disassociate so easily, especially when you have just visited a place. Nevertheless, it’s time for some cheer, and shifting focus to the best things to do in New Orleans with kids can greatly help. So, let’s discuss it.  Fun Things To Do With Kids In New Orleans | Enjoying The Graceful Embrace December to January and February to May are the best times to try fun things to do with kids in New Orleans. And guess what! There are a lot of free activities awaiting your little ones here. I have discussed them in a different Tour and Travel guide.  Nevertheless, here, let’s focus on the unique things to do with kids in New Orleans.  1. Audubon Zoo Visit https://www.instagram.com/p/C4qRCaVrNPe/?img_index=1 Location: 6500 Magazine Street, New Orleans Contact Number: (504) 861-2537 Hours Open: 10 AM to 5 PM (Tuesday and Wednesday Closed) Audubon Zoo Admission: $35 for Adults and $25 for Children Audubon Zoo is one of the topmost family attractions in New Orleans. It is a wonderland of Audubon animals and birds. The place is filled with mammals, reptiles, and birds. From the majestic African Lions and Asians Elephants to the Aldabra Tortoise, you will find everything here.  However, for me, the most delightful creatures in the zoo are the Caribbean Flamingos. They are as colorful as their country of origin.  I also loved the Malayan Sun Bears. They are adorable with the cutest expressions. You will even find Malayan tigers here.  Furthermore, we thoroughly enjoyed The Dinosaurs at the Audubon Zoo section. I was not willing to visit the section at first. Yes, I know! I am in my thirties, and I still have my phobia!  Nonetheless, my kids insisted, and I had to take them to the section with 50 life-like dinosaurs growling and making moves. However, this special exhibit program has now ended.  Moreover, if you are in New Orleans for a long span or have plans of staying here, you can allow your kid to be a camper at the Audubon. They can become young experts in animals and they will love to spend some time with their favorite creatures. 2. A Day at Jackson Square | Best Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids Jackson Square gets its name from Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the USA and a New Orleans battle hero. So, a visit to Jackson Square at the heart of the French Quarter is like taking a walk down memory lane.  Here, you will also find Pontalba Apartments and many other oldest buildings in the city. Rented places are easily available in these buildings.  As you appreciate the old-yet-young vibe of the space or recall the history of New Orleans, let your little one enjoy the jazz music, live performances, and entertainment events here.  Moreover, if you are lucky enough, you can be a part of the art festivals here.  A stone’s throw away from Jackson Square is the St. Louis Cathedral. It is the oldest cathedral church in North America, and its steeples watch over the French Quarter.  3. A Ghost Tour | Exciting Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids Well, if your little one loves Halloween and everything spooky, you can definitely take them on a family-friendly ghost tour. These tours are especially popular among adventurous children in their pre-teens.  Tour Organizers like Viator, offer Spooky Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in New Orleans in the French Quarters.  Now, these ghost tours are very much ingrained in the spirit of New Orleans. The LaLaurie Mansion or the New Orleans French Quarter was infamous for the mistreatment of slaves. Supernatural activities and the stories around them started flowing after a neighbor saw a troubling incident. The neighbor saw a lady chasing a slave girl, who jumped from the roof of the mansion as an escape.  Despite the presence of modern boutiques, quaint restaurants and a reimagined and bustling French Market, the spooky vibe simply refuses to go away!  4. Spending Time By The Mississippi River There is something special about New Orleans. And as they say, the Mississippi River is the manifestation of the heart of New Orleans. It’s welcoming and embracing, and its culture and heritage surpass the geographical boundaries.  Further, like the Mississippi River which destroys, restores and builds the banks, New Orleans believes in making a forward move even in the toughest conditions. The recent terror attacks and the means of recuperation are burning examples.  So, if you want your little one to know about the true spirit of New Orleans, allow them to sit and relax by the Mississippi River for a while.  They will love sitting on the steps and watching the boats passing in the water. It is very close to the French Quarter, but a complete contrast in its spirit.  Moreover, your little ones will be elated to have beignets here. You will find the best beignets at Café Du Monde Riverwalk (Contact Number: +1 504-218-7993) here. The coffee there was good and just the way I like it.  5. A Visit To The Louis Armstrong Park  Location: 835 N. Rampart St, New Orleans Hours Open: 8 AM to 6 PM Entry Fee: Entry is Free for a Walk in the Park A visit to Louis Armstrong Park is not ideal for very young children. However, kids in their teens or growing up years with an interest in Jazz music will love this place. It is very close to the French Quarter, and inside the park, you will find Congo Square.  Congo Square is the place where slaves used to unite during the 1800s. Furthermore, your kids will love looking at the ducks in the pond of Louis Armstrong Park.  Moreover, the Mahalia Jackson Theater inside Louis Armstrong Park is a popular place to visit for artists and music lovers. It gets its name from Mahalia Jackson, a gospel singer of New Orleans.  Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

BY  Abdul Aziz Feb 22, 2024

It's likely that when people think of Park City, they picture world-class skiing. Or, on snowy sidewalks, celebrities mingle while donning designer winter attire, hidden from the prying eyes of the media and the public. Given that it hosted the Winter Olympics in 2002 and is still the yearly location of Sundance, the biggest independent film festival in the country, it has a well-earned reputation. But this picture-perfect mountain town is home to much more activity that is not widely known. To begin with, Park City is a worthwhile trip in any season. Perched at an elevation of 7,000 feet amidst the undulating peaks of the Wasatch Range, it offers unparalleled opportunities for springtime hiking, summertime mountain biking, and autumn foliage viewing in the American West. Yes, this place's shoulder season is arguably its best-kept secret. Whatever time of day you arrive, though, you'll find a friendly and hospitable community that's far more diverse than its 10,000 or so residents would indicate. Downtown offers a wide variety of dining experiences, from sophisticated Michelin-starred omakase to rustic, farm-raised cuisine. The only ski-in restaurant in the world serves drinks. Alternatively, just relax in front of a fire in the lobby of a five-star luxury hotel and take in the breathtaking scenery. The closest ocean is more than a thousand miles away from this specific area of Utah. However, Park City is entirely your oyster. Additionally, access to this region of the world is now simpler than ever, thanks to the completion of enormous new additions to the nearby Salt Lake City International Airport. Here are some of the best things to do in Park City Utah. Things To Do in Park City Utah If you are curious about Park City, we have a list of details about all the things to do in Park City Utah that you cannot miss. Check them out and add them to your list when packing for the trip. Picnic Fun Maggie Alvarez is a Park City native and co-founder of Tupelo, one of the best farm-to-table dining concepts. As such, she has extensive experience finding delicious food. She wants to enjoy it outside as well, though. She enjoys taking her meal outside to enjoy the perfect mountain picnic on particularly lovely days. Additionally, there are many locations throughout the city where she can get the kind of quick lunch she needs for her job. Reputable mixologist Xania V. Woodman creates a wide range of inventive drinks at two different locations in the city: Sip & Stir and Handle. She enjoys using the torch at Red Flower Studios when she isn't working behind the bar. Winter Sports In many resorts across the nation, skiing is still an intimidating experience for individuals with disabilities. Fortunately, the National Ability Center (NAC) in Park City proves to be an exception to that rule. This nonprofit organization offers outdoor adventures and adaptive recreation to people with disabilities. It recently opened a brand-new, cutting-edge facility with a focus on inclusive winter sport access for guests with developmental, physical, and cognitive disabilities. Dine in a Yurt Have you ever desired to savor chef-driven cuisine at 10,000 feet (about the height of Mount St. Helens) above sea level in an elegant tent? The Viking Yurt provides you and your loved ones with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The adventure starts on time at 5:45 p.m. with a 25-minute sleigh ride to Park City's highest point. As you settle in for a 3.5-hour dining experience, you are greeted with a glogg mug upon entering the yurt. Dinners must be booked in advance and start at $280 per person, tax and gratuity included. Shots at the World’s Longest Shot Ski High West offers something a little stronger if that's what you're craving. Opening along Main Street in 2007, the massive saloon boasted its own stillhouse and a distinct Old West feel. The brand relocated the majority of its production to a distillery up the road in Wanship, which is currently accessible for public tours, as its whiskey gained popularity across the nation. But there's still a lively restaurant and bar at this original location. It holds the World's Longest Shot Ski event every October. In an attempt to break the previous record, the bar served 1,340 people a group shot of spirit by arranging 528 skis end to end. Haunted History Stories If you're looking for a different kind of spirit, Park City Ghost Tours departs every night at 7 p.m. in the winter and 8 p.m. in the summer. Park City apparently takes its history seriously, as the mining camp as well as a boomtown that almost became a ghost town. The Park City Museum offers pre-planned hikes to historic locations, lectures, and local cemetery tours. It also has a top-notch Main Street exhibition that requires several visits to fully appreciate. Main Street Escapade Escape Room Park City, situated along the lower portion of Main Street, provides four unique experiences, one of which is a Mine Trap with a distinctly Western vibe. They start at $39 per person and can be reserved for up to ten players. Families will have a wonderful afternoon out. This is one of the cooler things to do in Park City Utah. Local Vino Sommelier-led wine tastings are available at the bar and lounge called Old Town Cellars. You can take pleasure in a custom assortment of pours made to your exacting requirements. Alternatively, you can accept the dealer's selection of products. It may contain wines that are skillfully blended in this very town. Whatever goes into your glass, you'll have a deeper understanding of the craft of oenology after reading this. Bakeries To Check Out Although Slovakia and Utah may not seem like the most obvious geographic partners, one adventurous expat has made the connection delicious. During the two-hour hands-on cooking class, "Bake with Lenka," guests arrive at the home of the namesake chef and learn the art of perfecting the Eastern European pastry. Reservations are accepted year-round at a rate of $115 per person. Luxurious Hotels Park City offers several choices when it comes to five-star lodging. For those who wish to stay as close to the mountain as possible, the St. Regis, the Montage, and the Pendry are all great choices. They all have heated pools, a variety of dining options, and extensive spa services. It's not unusual to get into any of these properties for about $350 per night during shoulder season. You can anticipate those rates to double come ski season. Scenic Drives Enjoying the sights and the clean mountain air of Park City can be achieved by biking. For those who are unfamiliar with the ups and downs of alpine cycling, it can be difficult terrain, particularly at high altitudes. An enjoyable and reasonably priced workaround is e-bikes. Renting yours from Pedego will cost you $85 for a half-day. Get a good workout without becoming too intoxicated. Consider making a quick trip up the Guardsman Pass Scenic Backway if you're arriving in the summer or early fall. You'll see a ton of views along the road, even though it requires driving up winding pavement for just under seven miles. All around you will be aspens, evergreens, and expansive fields dotted with wildflowers. And as you reach the 9,717-foot crest of the Wasatch Range, those views only get bigger.  Alpine Coasters In all of Utah, the Park City Mountain Coaster is the longest of its kind. When you visit outside of the winter, you can reach up to 30 miles per hour as you zoom down the track's mile length. Although each ride at the top costs $30, the views are incomparable. If you like coasting, this is one of the best things to do in Park City Utah. Art and Culture For a small town of its size, Park City has a surprisingly vibrant arts scene. Over 20 galleries, featuring everything from black-and-white nature photos to bronze sculptures, line the streets. The last Friday of every month is when the Park City Gallery Association hosts its three-hour gallery stroll, when each venue's unique aesthetic is on full display. The public is welcome to attend for free. For art lovers this should be one of the best things to do in Park City Utah. Ski Deer Valley Resort In addition to providing the most opulent amenities and top-notch customer service, Deer Valley is renowned for its excellent skiing. Only skiers are permitted on the mountain; snowboarders are not permitted. Additionally, the resort only allows 7,500 skiers per day, so even during the busiest holiday seasons, the hill is never overcrowded, and you can always count on getting the most vertical. With terrain spanning four mountains, there is something for every skill level of skier. The resort caters to novice and intermediate skiers, but that doesn't mean the terrain isn't difficult. Skiers with more experience should visit Lady Morgan Mountain, as it offers excellent powder stashes and untracked glade runs. There are 6,570 feet at base elevation. Ski Park City Mountain Resort Park City Mountain Resort is a vast ski area featuring an almost infinite variety of runs. Before you ever run out of places to ski, your energy will run out. The resort features more than 330 runs, is distributed across 17 peaks, and tops out at 10,026 feet. With a good assortment of intermediate and beginner runs, the resort caters to families. In addition, while there are soft greens and expansive blue groomers, there are also black diamonds that will make your pulse race. Park City Mountain and Canyons Ski Resort combined to become one resort, but there are still two primary base areas. The largest parking area is found in the first area, which is just outside of town. The second area is in town and is mainly for guests staying at neighboring hotels. On busy days, arrive early if you want a spot because parking is extremely limited here. Vail Resorts owns Park City Mountain Resort, which is included in the Epic Pass network. In the summer, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, riding the mountain coaster, taking a gondola ride to take in the scenery, and other entertainment options like the summer concert series. Sundance Film Festival Every year, during the final ten days of January, Park City hosts the renowned Sundance Film Festival. This is your opportunity to see famous people. During the festival, the town is lively and bustling, making it a great place to be. Along with other locations around town, the renowned Egyptian Theater screens movies. While lodging can be expensive and hard to come by during the festival, keep in mind that Salt Lake City is only 45 minutes away, and free shuttle buses are provided by the festival from the various parking lots. In actuality, the Sundance Film Festival is a fantastic time to ski at Park City Resort and Deer Valley Resort. It tends to discourage people from going skiing during the festival because of the thought of crowds and parking in town. There will probably be excellent snow and a few lines. It's possible to spot a celebrity zipping down the hills or riding the chairlift next to you. For most people, this is one of the most exciting things to do in Park City Utah. Park City Museum Constructed in 1884, the original Park City Hall now houses the Territorial Jail and Museum. Although it may not appear large from the outside, the museum is home to a sizable collection and is spread across multiple floors totaling 12,000 square feet (about twice the area of a basketball court). Numerous interactive exhibits about Park City and the surrounding area's history are available at the museum. Exhibits include a mining exhibit where you can try riding in an old elevator and set off an explosion. Additional activities that are ideal for family outings include a visit to the Smith and Brim grocery store after a descent into the original, dank, and dark territorial jail. A synopsis of the history of downhill skiing is also provided. Egyptian Theatre Show Arts enthusiasts should visit the renowned Egyptian Theatre to see a play, comedy act, musical, or film. Additionally, the Sundance Film Festival's initial screenings took place in this theater. The theater has been restored to its former splendor after being around for more than a century. It is easy to find on Main Street. Just look for the neon-lit marquee and the bright red doors below. Throughout the year, performances happen. If you are into old stuff, this will be one of the best things to do in Park City Utah. Wrapping Up Park City offers free usage of its city buses. The buses travel all the way to lower Deer Valley properties, and taking the bus is frequently more convenient than trying to find Park City public parking. The two main ski resorts are also accessible by bus. The historic street is traversed by the Main Street trolley. Most of the stores, galleries, and restaurants are located along the trolley's route. The trolley operates between 10 and 11 p.m. In the city, ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available. There shouldn't be a long wait for these services because Park City is a popular place to get them. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about things to do in Park City Utah, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: The 4 Top Reasons You Should Visit Les Deux Alpes During Your Ski Break From Museums To Parks: The Top Attractions In St George Utah Ski Retreats And City Suites: Salt Lake City’s Hotel Gems