The killing of El Mencho cartel leader sparks violent unrest while naming a number on a beach in Mexico

Issued by the US State Department Shelter in place Orders while airlines canceled their flights due to ongoing disruptions.

As the violence continues, Tripadvisor recently announced “2026 Travelers’ Choice Awards“Best Beaches” – naming the best beach in Mexico.

Isla Pasion Beach in Cozumel, Mexico took the top spot after the company analyzed millions of traveler reviews from last year. News about the beach was released on February 17.

Beach It is described as a private island oasis and offers crystal clear waters, marine life encounters and snorkeling opportunities.

The death of cartel leader El Mencho sparks violent unrest throughout Mexico. (Obtained by Fox News Digital)

the Travel guidance platform He pointed out that the best time to visit the island is between November and April.

Isla Pasion has unique features like protected coral reefs and sea turtle nesting sites – which are exclusive A day trip destination.

“We urge US citizens in a number of locations in Mexico to shelter in place.”

Other beaches named in the top five were Elafonissi Beach on Crete, Greece; Lake Palos in Kissamos, Greece; Eagle Beach in Eagle Beach, Aruba; And Praia da Falesia In Algarve, Portugal.

Trapped tourists in Puerto Vallarta tell of cartel retaliation after El Mencho’s killing

Isla Pación is located in the state of Quintana Roo and is included in a series of travel alerts issued by the US State Department on Sunday, which indicated “ongoing security operations.”

The latest alert said: “We urge US citizens in a number of locations in Mexico to shelter in place.”

Tripadvisor recently named Isla Pasion in Cozumel, Mexico, the world’s best beach for 2026. (Istock)

Cartel members terrorize many areas through… Make a fire For companies and shooting in public places.

Mexico’s latest travel warnings place the country as “Level 2 – Exercise Extra Caution” – with other regions marked as “Level 3 – Reconsider Travel” and “Level 4 – Do Not Travel” on August 12, 2025.

Advisory levels remain unchanged.

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“Vigilance has increased in Mexico due to terrorism, crime and kidnapping,” the warning read.

Listed crimes in Mexico include murder, kidnapping, car theft, robbery, and others Terrorist violence.

Cartel members are terrorizing many areas of Mexico by setting fire to businesses and shooting in public places. (Michel Freria/Reuters)

“There is a risk of violence in the state by terrorist groups, gangs and criminal organizations. Shootings between rival gangs have led to the injury and killing of innocent bystanders,” the warning read.

Tourists taking trips to Mexico should “be aware of their surroundings and trust their instincts,” Brady Alumbaugh, a travel consultant at Travelmation, told Fox News Digital.

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“If you have a strange feeling, pay attention to it and respond accordingly,” he added.

As suggested by Alumbaugh Travel in groups of two or more. “The more people, the better,” he added.

“If you’re feeling weird, pay attention and respond accordingly,” one travel expert said. (Istock)

“If you are a US citizen or national, sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and register your trip.”

“The STEP program is free and allows the State Department to contact you in case of an emergency. It also helps them track citizens who are abroad.”

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He added that travelers should stay in touch.

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“If your cellular plan doesn’t have coverage in Mexico, look into your day pass E-SIM options to make sure you can contact the authorities, Family and friends When you are out of WiFi range. In Mexico, the 911 number in the United States is 065 for ambulances, 068 for fire, and 060 for police.”

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