ROSARITO BEACH.- One of the topics discussed by the Baja California Image Committee yesterday was an alert put out by the United States Department of State advising against travel to the state of Baja California. Baja tourism authorities have indicated that there is nothing to fear and tourists can safely visit the region.

Mariano Escobedo, Director of International Relations for the State of Baja California, has indicated that these alerts are always updated before popular holidays and that a closer look at statistics would show that violent acts in the state are comprise of inter-criminal group violence, and does not affect tourism. The issuance of travel advisories prior to important dates is a phenomenon we have previously discussed.

VIDEO : Safety in Baja California

In past months, there has been a spike in tourism levels in Baja California, and this is largely thanks to a large variety of activities taking place in the region. Baja California has more to offer than great wines, as the regional cuisine has also become world renown. Local residents and various organizations have taken on the task of innovating tourism activities and it is paying off for the local tourism economy.

Ecotourism, business/convention tourism, arts, culture, good food, and great hotels are just some of the things visitors in Baja California can enjoy during their stay. And, hey, if you enjoy your stay, you might want to consider buying a permanent place to stay. As proof of how safe the Baja coast is, it is home to locals and foreigners alike and in terms of property ownership and residency, the state is very accessible to foreign buyers.

It is worth noting the variety of international companies that have decided to open up shop in Baja, and will further generate employment opportunities for the region. Uber, Toyota, and Samsung are excellent examples of companies that were drawn into the state and are confident in the investment opportunity Baja presents. In this list, we should also include all of the companies that are being born in the region as part of an entrepreneurship surge, which includes a surprising amount of young people.

Escobedo reiterated that, just as what happens in certain cities in the United States, there are some places where visitors should not visit late at night. And, while authorities are working hard to reduce violence as a whole, the violence that is occurring between criminal groups is self-contained and should not affect tourists.

For more information on upcoming events in Baja California, and recommendations on places to visit discoverbajacalifornia.com.

Brenda.Colon@sandiegored.com

borderzonie@gmail.com