MATAMOROS, Mexico – Every year, Mexico is a top destination for college students on spring break. 

For students who cannot make it to a Mexican resort, such as those found in Cancun, beaches near the border are the next best thing. One of the reasons is because the drinking age in Mexico is 18.

"We're expecting students to come as usual. But we're asking them to be very careful when they come,” said the U.S. Consul General of Matamoros, Cecilia Elizondo.

Matamoros is a popular spot for students who spend spring break on South Padre Island.

Every year the U.S. State Department launches a “Know Before You Go” campaign.

This year, students are told to be aware of safety and security concerns because of the escalating drug violence in many Mexican border cities.

“I was asked if we should issue a warning to our students and others traveling to Mexico. And my position is that we should,” said the Vice President of UT Brownsville, Antonio Zavaleta.

Some universities are warning students to stay out of parts of Mexico completely this year.

Those who do decide to go are urged to stick to tourist spots and to stick together as a group.