25 March 2011

MEXICO: Are Tourists Safe From Narco Violence In Cancun? Another Shark Attack Reported.

USATODAY/ K.B. YANCEY/

   Cancun had 5.9 million international visitors last year, up by more than 400,000 from 2009.
   But so far this year, hotel occupancy rates are down...to about 71% instead of the usual high season 80%-plus...as Americans read and are repelled by news of Mexico's increased narco violence.
   Cancun and the Maya Riviera in the state of Quintana Roo are important to mexico's economy. They account for more than 50% of international tourism.
   Cancun has increased security.
   But up to date crime numbers are hard to get..even for the U.S.embassy.

AND:  A Russian tourist was attacked by a shark just 100 yards from Cancun's shore...after lifeguards warned the woman to stay out of the water.
    It was the second shark attack in Cancun's hotel zone in less than two months.