Visitors to Cancun and the Mexican state of Quintana Roo are being advised of a potential conflict between taxi drivers and ride-hailing service providers by the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico.
As they compete for lucrative tourist rides, medallion taxi drivers have been targeting drivers of ride-hailing services.
Passengers are regrettably in the middle of things.
The warning states that there are "official complaints against Uber and other drivers do occur... and past disagreements between these firms and local taxi unions have occasionally turned violent, resulting in injury to U.S. citizens in some instances."
One of the main highways leading to the Cancun hotel district was blocked by taxi drivers on Monday, prompting some travelers to take alternate routes or even request police protection.
An earlier this month court decision that permits Uber to operate in Quintana Roo without a public transportation license has reportedly infuriated taxi drivers.
The Mexican Supreme Court concluded in 2021 that because Uber is not a public transportation provider, it is exempt from many of the rules that apply to taxi drivers.
The fact that taxis are regarded as public transportation and so have higher costs enraged the taxi drivers.
Social media videos depict altercations between drivers of ride-hailing services and cabs and their customers.
This type of transit rivalry has sparked demonstrations before.
The introduction of ride-hailing apps into the market in France in 2016 prompted taxi unions to go on a statewide strike.
Paris was effectively shut down as a result of those violent protests.
More recently, Barcelona's streets were closed due to taxi strikes over ride-hailing companies like Uber.
Large-scale demonstrations against ride-hailing apps have also taken place in Belgium, Italy, and a number of American locations, including Denver.
There are other ways to travel if you're going to Mexico's popular tourist destinations.
The Cancun Sun makes some wise recommendations.
There are affordable buses and shuttles, for instance, if you want to go within Cancun's tourist area.
You may reserve a private vehicle or van on Expedia or Viator for as little as $30 if you're going to the Hotel Zone.
You can also speak with your hotel directly for the best transportation advice at this time, however, it may occasionally be a bit more expensive.
A travel warning for Mexico based on crime had previously been issued by the State Department.
The warning advises, "Please remember that all places have some amount of danger in light of highly reported security events in famous tourist areas.
Additionally, it advises travelers to check their personal security measures, remain alert to their surroundings, follows local news, and dial 911 in Mexico right away if they encounter any problems.
A "Guest Assist App" is also available for free download from the Quintana Roo Tourism Board.
The app provides access to a 24/7 bilingual call center for visitor assistance, legal counsel, a complaint line, information about COVID-19, and safety advice.
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