VIDEO: Puerto Vallarta is “safer than before” – Jalisco Secretary of Tourism Michelle Fridman

The Mexican state of Jalisco — home to popular destinations such as Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara — has long been a favourite getaway for Canadians looking to escape the cold.

However, a recent wave of cartel-related violence has raised some safety concerns across the Western Mexico region. 

On February 22, retaliatory incidents were reported in Jalisco, and neighbouring states, following a major security operation targeting organized crime.

Social media footage circulating that day, including videos filmed in Puerto Vallarta, showed burning vehicles and plumes of smoke, prompting authorities to issue a temporary shelter-in-place advisory.

READ MORE: Canadian travel advisor living in Mexico calls for "perspective" after Puerto Vallarta scare

In response, and as PAX reported, several Canadian airlines briefly suspended flights to Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara as a precaution, resuming service once conditions stabilized.

Now, more than a month later, officials say local life has returned to normal, with Puerto Vallarta and other destinations across Jalisco operating as usual.

Visiting Toronto on Monday (March 30), Jalisco Secretary of Tourism Michelle Fridman met with travel industry partners at Mexhico restaurant downtown to share the latest updates from her state, including Guadalajara’s preparations to host matches during this summer’s FIFA World Cup.

Additionally, in a one-on-one interview with PAX’s Michael Pihach, Fridman addressed the violent events that shook Jalisco in February, separating fact from fiction, and outlined what Canadian travel advisors can do to support the region's tourism recovery. 

Watch the interview here.

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