Travel: red channel

Trouble in Mexico

The latest Foreign Office travel advice for Mexico warns of "a high incidence of armed robbery", and says "resistance is often met with violence". It continues: "Particular care should be taken on public transport, and at airports, bus stations and popular tourist sites. Care should be taken on the Mexico City Metro, where there is a high incidence of pickpocketing.

"There is also a risk of robbery outside major cities, particularly in the states of Michoacan, Guerrero, Oaxaca Chiapas and Campeche. Avoid travel after dark, and isolated beaches at all times.

"Travellers should not give a telephone number for family or friends in the UK to strangers who claim to be carrying out surveys. Such information has been used to extort money."

Meanwhile, the US State Department this week issued a stern warning about taxis in Mexico City: "Absolutely avoid hailing Volkswagen bug taxis and other cabs on the street. Robberies of passengers in taxis are becoming more frequent and more violent.

"Tourists are not only robbed, but often beaten. US Embassy employees have been advised to use only taxis from authorized taxi stands, especially upon arrival at Mexico City Airport."

You can contact the Foreign Office Travel Advice Unit on 0171-238 4503 or 4504, or fax 0171-238 4545; or at http://www. fco.gov.uk/