U.S. Tourists proceed with caution

Violence hasn't targeted visitors from U.S.

By Sandra Dibble (Contact) Union-Tribune Staff Writer
11:36 a.m. January 4, 2009

Is it safe to visit the Tijuana region? There is no simple, single answer.
Much like travel anywhere in the world, it depends on who you are, where you're going, and what you're doing.

U.S. visitors have been staying away from Tijuana and other border areas, fearful they could get caught up in the rise in violence and kidnappings. Yet tourists are not being targeted, and major incidents in recent months have largely bypassed tourist areas.

The U.S. State Department Travel Alert for Mexico recommends caution when visiting the country, but points out that millions of U.S. citizens do so safely each year.

It often boils down to an individual's own assessment. A veteran traveler who speaks fluent Spanish and has numerous contacts in Mexico might well take a different approach than a first-time visitor.

“Each situation is different,â€