The situation in Oaxaca is virtually back to normal. There are very occasional protest marches (perhaps once or twice a month) during which the Zocalo is closed off, but in general the city is back to its pre-conflict tranquility and open to tourists.
December 2006
After over six months of conflict in Oaxaca, the situation seems to have calmed. There are no more roadblocks, traffic is flowing smoothly and there's no sign of protesters on the streets. Buildings that had been covered in graffiti for months are being re-painted. The only thing that mars the tranquility of the town center is the presence of hundreds of federal police.
November 2006
Considering travel to Oaxaca?
Whether or not to travel to Oaxaca city at this time is a personal decision. The US State Department put out a Public Announcement in which they state that visitors should avoid travel to Oaxaca at this time.
Oaxaca city is not as attractive as usual, six months of protests have taken their toll, and the police presence is not particularly pleasing to the eye. However, there are some advantages to visiting Oaxaca at this time: there are very few tourists so you will have tourist attractions to yourself, hotels and service providers are anxious for business and will probably be extremely attentive to your needs, and you'll find prices have dropped significantly as businesses struggle to stay afloat in an economy that relies on tourism and has been badly hit.
The conflicts that have occurred have taken place in Oaxaca city (capital of the state of Oaxaca). The villages surrounding Oaxaca city, and other areas of Oaxaca state, such as Huatulco and Puerto Escondido, have not been affected.
Oaxaca Travel Safety
If you decide to visit Oaxaca, you should be aware of the situation, stay up-to-date on any developments and always practice general safety precautions. Mexican law prohibits foreigners' involvement in political activities, so if you join protests you may be at risk of being deported.
You may want to register with your Embassy,
and consider staying in a hotel outside the city center.
Hotels outside of Oaxaca city center:
- La Casa de Adobe Suites - Avenida De Las Etnias 509, San Felipe del Agua, Oaxaca (get rates)
- Fiesta Inn - Avenida Universided 140, Oaxaca (get rates)
- Hotel Victoria - Lomas del Fortin No 1, Oaxaca (get rates)
