View from Playa Blanca. Photo by Page Cameron.
Canyons, beaches, tropical forests, deserts, and mountains – The Mexican landscape has something for everyone…
Beyond the incredible variety of the land, Mexican culture and gastronomy is fantastic and not to be missed! Eat tamales in Oaxaca, mole in Puebla, and corundas in Michoacán. Swim in some of the most incredible beaches in the world. Learn Spanish, meet locals, and travel deeply. Traveling safely in Mexico is easy and rewarding, provided precautions are taken to ensure that problems are avoided.
Beware of Bad Press
Despite the intense content of press on Mexico, nearly everywhere in Mexico is peaceful, relaxed, and safe. Tourists who plan ahead, travel smart, are friendly and respectful, and are not flashy with money and wealth will generally avoid hassle and have a fantastic time exploring Mexico.
Learning basic Spanish phrases will make a Mexican experience much more fun. Having an open mind and relaxed attitude about time is essential. Your guide may show up an hour late – not to worry! Hop around the corner for a beer or fresh juice and relax while you wait. Mexico is a country with complex history, amazing people, and incredible landscape. From the adventurous to conservative traveler, there is something for everyone.
Do Some Research
Just like traveling anywhere, it is always best to plan ahead. There are certain cities in Mexico that are good to avoid, and other cities that are not to be missed! Doing research and planning ahead doesn’t mean that you can’t change your plans as you meet other travelers or fall in love with an area. Travelers who are prepared tend to have more interesting, and obviously safer, experiences in Mexico.
Quick Tips to Plan Ahead:
- Have a rough trip outline planned. Use a forum service such as ThornTree and/or BootsnAll to let other people see your plan and give you advice. Often locals frequent these forums and can offer insight regarding not only safety, but general trip planning.
- Make photocopies of your passport before entering the country, and make copies of your visa when you arrive to Mexico. Carry the copies instead of the original documents when possible. Some travelers keep scanned documents of their identification online. If a passport gets stolen, having an online copy available will speed up the renewal process.
- Have common sense in packing before your trip. Rather than take your new three carat diamond engagement ring, substitute a simple band for your week in Mexico. Wearing flashy jewelry will attract attention. Unless it is really necessary for your trip, leave your expensive rings, necklaces, and earrings at home.
While in Mexico
There are many easy ways to decrease the risk of problems while traveling in Mexico.
- Avoid standing out. Any tourist can expect to be spotted, but savvy tourists will avoid wearing flashy clothing or dressing in ways that may draw a lot of attention. Many areas of Mexico are very conservative. Wearing conservative clothing will help you blend in as a tourist that understands and respects local custom.
- Always carry a copy of your passport and visa. Foreigners who do not have proof of legal stay in Mexico can be detained (though it is extremely unlikely). When possible, leave the original identification in your hotel room.
- Using bank cards is the easiest way to get cash – which you’ll need, as many areas don’t take credit cards and checks are uncommon. In the case that your wallet/purse is lost or stolen, it is a good idea to keep a different bank card or travelers’ checks in a different bag.
- Carry only the cash you need, and never flash large wads of cash.
- For some travelers, one of the most valuable items they carry is their photos. Consider doing regular uploads in the numerous internet cafes in order to save your most precious memories.
- Mexicans are generally very warm, friendly, and welcoming. Enjoy sharing a meal, a drink, or simple conversation! Do be wary of getting inebriated in public. In extreme cases, thieves may encourage tourists to get drunk and walk away from their belongings. This is rare but nonetheless should be considered. In all cases it is never wise to be drunk in public.
- If you are planning to carry your expensive, large camera – be warned that this makes you an obvious target for thieves. This should not discourage you from using your camera. Be conscious of your surroundings and do not take your camera out with you late at night. Ask people at your hotel for advice on whether the area is safe, and what precautions you should take. Most cities and towns are perfectly safe, even at night. But it is important to get to know the dynamics of the city before flashing expensive equipment.
- In crowded areas, carry your wallet in your front pocket or your purse in front of you. Busy, crowded markets are one of the treasures of Mexico – but also one of the easiest ways for pick-pockets to steal your wallet! The easiest way to get robbed is to assume an environment is safe. Most places are perfectly safe, but it is always smart to be aware of your possessions.
Safe Ways to Travel in Mexico
- As with most travel, it is always safest to travel in pairs or groups. Single travelers are more vulnerable and obvious. That said, single travelers and those in groups can have meaningful and fun vacations to Mexico.Travel during the day. Arriving at a destination after dark is not only more difficult logistically, but also opens you up to being hassled or robbed as you try to find your hotel. If you do travel at night, be sure you know exactly where your final destination is. Getting off the bus and heading straight to your hotel will make your traveling easier and safe.
- Services such as Airbnb and Couchsurfing connect travelers with home-owners who can provide lodging and advice on specific areas. Often hosts will offer to guide travelers around the city, invite them to parties or dinners, and generally increase the quality of a traveler’s stay.
- Volunteering is a safe way to travel and lend a helping hand. Volunteer South America is a list of volunteer opportunities in Mexico, Central and South America. For those who are not interested in volunteering, the organizations listed often have cabañas and rooms for rent as well.
