In a shocking turn of events, three college students from Florida State University experienced a terrifying ordeal during their long-awaited spring break trip to Cancún, Mexico. The vacation quickly spiraled into a nightmare when they were confronted by armed individuals at their beachfront hotel who robbed them at gunpoint.

The father of one of the students, who preferred to remain anonymous, recounted the harrowing incident to Fox News Digital. He expressed his disbelief as he had researched the Ocean Dream Cancun by Guru Hotel prior to their trip, believing it to be a safe destination. However, on the very first day of their vacation, his daughter and her two friends were accosted by four individuals armed with rifles on the beach.

The armed individuals, two dressed in camouflage gear and the other two donning Mexican police attire, threatened the girls, accusing them of trespassing. They presented the students with three choices: leave the country immediately without their belongings, face imprisonment, or pay $300 each. Fearing for their safety, the girls chose the third option, relinquishing $900 to the robbers.

Remarkably, one of the students was permitted to return to their hotel room to retrieve the money. After the traumatizing ordeal, the girls were left shaken and fearful, having stared down the barrels of rifles. The father emphasized the lingering shock his daughter and her friends experienced, recounting their fear and the real threat they faced.

The incident highlighted a disconcerting pattern as the students learned that other spring breakers had encountered similar situations. According to the anonymous father, it seems that criminals identify American tourists as potential victims due to their perceived wealth and target them accordingly.

Former FBI special agent and Fox News contributor, Nicole Parker, stated that this story is unfortunately all too common, cautioning families and spring breakers planning to visit Mexico's pristine beaches. Parker emphasized the importance of vigilance and taking safety precautions in advance.

She advised Americans traveling to Mexico to adhere to travel advisories issued by the State Department and to register with the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. Parker stressed the significance of heeding strongly worded travel advisories and understanding the associated risks. In cases where the advisory explicitly states "Do Not Travel" or "Reconsider Travel," travelers should comply and not expect rescue efforts in the event of any unfortunate incidents. Additionally, having appropriate travel insurance, such as emergency medical evacuation coverage, is strongly recommended.

Parker further recommended thorough research of resorts or hotels prior to booking, as well as identifying the closest U.S. consulate for any potential emergencies while in Mexico.

This alarming incident serves as a stark reminder that even in popular tourist destinations like Cancún, precautions must be taken to ensure personal safety. Travelers are urged to remain vigilant, stay informed about potential risks, and take necessary measures to protect themselves while enjoying their vacations.