Which depends upon your point of view! The news in the U.S.A. depicting drug violence in the towns along the international border between the U.S.A. and Mexico has dealt a huge blow to tourism in Puerto Penasco (Rocky Point). Spring break travelers have mostly opted out of plans to visit our beautiful beachside town, after watching both national and local news stories, and reading warnings regarding the safety of travel in Mexico. None of the news stories gave an accurate picture of conditions anywhere in northern Mexico, except small portions of large cities, distant from the Lukeville-Sonoita border crossing, and a world away from the peace and tranquility of Puerto Penasco! Cancellations of spring break reservations for hotels, condominiums, and rental homes is epidemic, and restaurants and shops are mostly empty of clientele. How sad for a gentle and friendly town that spends all winter preparing to serve spring break visitors! One woman who owns property in Cholla Bay, just outside Puerto Penasco, is convinced that travel is safe, but cannot find a friend willing to make the 4-hour drive from the Phoenix metropolitan area with her!
The other side of this scenario, once you understand the message of safety and security that Puerto Penasco is trying to convey, is that it is a perfect time to come south of the border! Puerto Penasco is ready for you with lots of rental options available at unusually low prices, gorgeous weather, and, most important of all, people, both Mexican and American merchants, who are waiting to serve you with open arms, friendly smiles, and gratitude!
Check the facts for yourself. AAA of Arizona can advise about road safety, and NationMaster.com has very reassuring statistics regarding crime and your safety in Mexico. Call me if you have questions; I will be glad to chat with you! Then pack a few vacation clothes, a jacket for cool evenings, and your sunblock, and come on down!