Tainted Alcohol IN Mexico
Reports of tainted alcohol at resorts in Cancun, Playa Del Carman, Puerto Vallarta, Las Cabos and others started to turn up in 2017. International tourists visiting these hotels have reported vomiting, blackouts, assaults and even deaths after drinking their alcohol while on vacation (Gajanan, 2017). Many times, people regained consciousness to learn they had been robbed, sexually assaulted, or injured. In some instances, travelers could find no motive behind their blackout. Officials and the State Department have confirmed that there is tainted alcohol in resorts across the country. Since early July of 2017, over 170 travelers have reported injuries, illnesses or even deaths linked back to the alcohol. A 51-year-old mother and her 2 daughters reported that they simutainiously blacked out after a shot of tequila (Rutledge & Palmby, 2018). A 20 year old female died after drowning at an upscale resort in January of 2017, with her brother almost dying right next to her. Soon after the 20-year-olds death, investigations started happening. The Mexico police shut down over 20 bars, along with a black market tequila distillery (Gajanan, 2017). More than 18,700 gallons of illegal tequila were seized in a single week. Tests showed that over 235 gallons of that supply contained dangerous levels of methanol, which is commonly used in windshield wiper fluid and even a small quantity that is disgusted is considered extremely toxic. It is still unclear whether tourists have been deliberately drugged or became random victims of adulterated alcohol. Some reported getting violently ill, vomiting, foaming from the mouth and nose, and other physical symptoms. Others blacked out and woke up hours later with no memories (Rutledge, 2018).
Why is it important for Recreation Professionals to know?
This horrific trend is extremely important for recreation professionals to know and be aware of. Although it has been shown all over the news, many people still may not be aware of what is currently going on in Mexico. Everyone should be warned of what is happening so that they either don't travel to these locations, or can be aware of signs to look for. It is especially important for travel agents to inform tourists of what is currently going on. Even though most of the bars have been shut down, this is such a large issue that we need to stop it from happening anymore. Too many people have been hurt, and even killed because of the tainted alcohol at these resorts. Anyone who is wanting to travel to these specific locations, should be warned of what could potentially happen if they drink alcohol there. United States Officials have been tracking every report a U.S citizen has filed due to alcoholic drinks. Officials have also taken steps to inform people on what counterfeit alcohol may look like. Open bottle caps, replaced labels and authentic holograms are just some of the warning signs to look for to keep you and your family safe from this horrible trend (Trejos, 2017).
Tips for staying safe while visiting mexico
People all across the world are wondering how they can stay safe while visiting these beautiful islands, but keeping away from tainted alcohol. According to USA Today, the U.S State Department cautioned vacationers to drink alcohol in moderation and seek immediate attention if you even begin to feel ill. (Trejos, 2017). Beth Godlin, who provides insurance for travel agent companies, suggested that your travel group look out for one another and be conservative when drinking, especially when out of the country. People shouldn't feel that they have to avoid alcohol completely, but should drink conservatively. Godlin also provided many helpful tips when it comes to drinking, not only in Mexico, but everywhere. She suggested that people read online reviews of their hotel before booking. If anything looks suspicious, they should not book with them. Additionally, anytime you are drinking, you should insist on watching your drink being made. Bottled drinks or beer is always a safe option. Finally, Godlin's last suggestion was to follow your gut. If you believe that your drink tastes funny or weird, do not drink it. Always trusting your gut is the safest recommendation. Overall, people shouldn't feel that they have to completely avoid alcohol while traveling to this beautiful country, but they should always be aware of what is happening. Many travel agents and companies suggested that even if you feel slightly sick, especially after 1 drink, to stop drinking and seek medical attention. Staying on top of these tips will help keep you sick while on vacation. (Godlin, 2017).
How we can educate tourists on this trend
There are many ways that tourists can be informed of this current trend. Informing people who want to travel to Mexico for a vacation is crucial. They are most likely going to be the ones who are effected by this tourism trend. As mentioned earlier, travel agent companies should inform the travelers of what is happening in Mexico. If anyone is wanting to travel here, their should be a rule that they must be informed on what is happening to either prepare themselves, or change destinations. I believe it is also the United State Officials jobs to inform its' people of what is currently happening. The United States should be responsible for keeping their people safe from this situation. Additionally, the Mexico Officials should also inform people on what is happening in their country. They need to take responsibility for this occurrence, and try to prevent this from happening any further. Although the tainted alcohol in Mexico has hit major news, it is our job as recreation professionals to educate people on this trend. There has been far too many deaths from tainted alcohol at resorts in Mexico that we must stand up and do something about it.