The US Embassy and Consulate in Mexico has issued a new notice tourist warning of Cancun and the Mexican state of Quintana Roo about potential conflicts between taxi drivers and ride-hailing companies.
medal taxi driver was attack ride-hailing service driver as they scramble for lucrative travel. Unfortunately, the passenger was caught in the middle.
“Formal complaints against Uber and other drivers have occurred… and past disputes between these services and the local taxi union have sometimes turned violent, resulting in injuries to drivers. U.S. citizens under certain circumstances,” the warning reads.
On Monday, taxi drivers blocked Kukulcán Avenue – one of the main roads leading to the hotel complex in Cancun – forcing some passengers to walk or even ask for a police escort.
Taxi drivers are said to be furious at the court’s ruling in the first day of this month allows Uber to operate in Quintana Roo without a public transit license. In 2021, the Mexican Supreme Court ruled that Uber is not a public transportation company and therefore does not have to follow the same regulations as taxi drivers. This angers taxi drivers, who face higher costs because they are considered public transport.
Several videos on social media show confrontations between taxi drivers and ride-hailing service drivers and their passengers.
This is not the first time this type of transportation competition has led to protests. 2016, there have been nationwide strikes in France by taxi unions over bringing app-based ride-hailing services to market. Those protests turned violent and effectively closed Paris.
Recently, taxis oppose ride-hailing services like Uber closed parts of Barcelona.
There have also been large-scale protests against app-based ride-hailing companies in Belgium, Italy and several US cities, including Denver.
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If you’re heading to the touristy areas of Mexico, there are many other options for getting around. The Cancun sun has a number good suggestion.
For example, if you’re looking to get around the tourist area in Cancun, there are cheap buses and shuttles. If you’re heading to the Hotel Zone, you can book a private car or van through Expedia or Viator for as little as $30. While it can sometimes be a bit more expensive, you can also contact your hotel directly for suggestions on the best transport at this time.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a Travel advice for Mexico crime based. “In light of the highly publicized security incidents at popular tourist destinations, please remember that all destinations present some degree of risk,” the advisory reads.
It also suggests visitors review personal privacy plans, be aware of their surroundings, pay attention to local media, and call Mexico 911 immediately in the event of any problems.
The Quintana Roo Tourist Board also has a “Guest App” for free download. The app provides safety information, legal advice, a complaints line, COVID-19 information, and access to a 24/7 bilingual call center for visitor support.
