Americans eyeing summer vacations in Mexico’s top resort destinations are facing new warnings from the U.S. State Department, as security conditions in several regions continue to deteriorate. With cartel threats escalating and travelers reporting increasingly sophisticated scams, officials are urging caution—even in tourist-heavy areas once considered safe.

The most recent alert applies to Baja California Sur, including well-known destinations such as Los Cabos, Cabo San Lucas, San Jose del Cabo, and La Paz. The advisory has been raised to “exercise increased caution,” citing concerns over cartel activity, threats against local officials, and potential disruptions to public transportation.

Sandra Awodele, a travel advisor and founder of COI Traveler, spoke to Fox News Digital about the growing risks for Americans vacationing south of the border. “People love Mexico because it’s a good time, it’s affordable, and it’s driveable,” she said. “But they should be cautious of theft, scams and cartel violence.”

Awodele’s warning is based on personal experience. While visiting Tulum, she fell victim to a scam that cost her $250 in cash. She had arrived early to catch a water taxi to the airport when a man approached her claiming new COVID restrictions would delay the next boat. The only solution, he insisted, was to charter a private plane. Panicked and fearful of missing her flight, Awodele complied. She later realized the water taxi was never delayed—and the urgency was likely fabricated to exploit her.

Her story is far from unique. U.S. tourists are increasingly being targeted by scammers who use panic, confusion, and high-pressure tactics to coerce cash payments. The rise in such incidents—combined with drug cartel activity near vacation zones—has prompted federal officials to sound the alarm.

The U.S. Embassy in Mexico is now advising travelers to expect a heightened security presence in Cabo San Lucas and La Paz. Tourists may see additional checkpoints, patrols, and travel restrictions, especially around high-traffic areas. Other popular Mexican states—including Quintana Roo (home to Cancun and Playa del Carmen), Nayarit, and Mexico City—are also under State Department advisories.

To stay safe, Awodele recommends travelers plan ahead and follow several critical precautions. Those driving in Mexico should use designated safety corridors—highways known for increased surveillance and law enforcement visibility. Tourists should carry multiple forms of payment, including at least one credit card and two debit cards, in case of theft or card failure.

“Don’t travel with just one card,” she advised. “If you’re going somewhere, you need a credit card and at least two debit cards. The credit card gets locked, or the debit card gets stolen—you need a third card to make sure that you’re good.”

Awodele also recommends carrying a power bank, downloading offline maps, and noting nearby police stations, hospitals, and embassies in case of emergency. For women, added precautions such as drink covers, personal alarms, and discreet anti-theft bags are strongly encouraged.

While Mexico’s natural beauty and luxury resorts continue to draw millions of tourists—including Hollywood elites like Jennifer Aniston and the Kardashians—the travel climate has changed. Americans can still enjoy vacations in Mexico, but doing so safely now requires preparation and vigilance.

Cartel violence near tourism centers has become harder to ignore, and local scams are growing more advanced. Even as the resorts boast white-sand beaches and five-star amenities, the underlying security risks are forcing U.S. travelers to rethink what used to be carefree getaways.

The U.S. government continues to monitor conditions and issue travel updates as needed. Travelers are advised to register with the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) before traveling abroad and to check advisories for each Mexican state they plan to visit.

Mexico remains a favored destination, but the days of worry-free tourism are clearly over. For Americans heading there this summer, the best trip is one planned with eyes wide open.