Is Mexico Safe to Travel Right Now? The 2026 Traveler’s Guide
Is Mexico safe to travel right now? Yes, for most travelers who choose the right destinations and travel smart.
The most popular tourist areas, including Cancun, Tulum, Los Cabos, and Mexico City, sit at Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution, and Mérida is in one of only two states at Level 1, the lowest level on the State Department’s scale.
I’ve been to Mexico more than 15 times, solo, with my husband, and most often with my bestie Rhonda on our girls’ trips, from Cancun and Cabo to Mexico City, Mérida, and Puerto Vallarta.
I just got back from Cancun and Isla Mujeres in October 2026, where we celebrated my sister-in-law’s birthday.
I have never been robbed or pickpocketed in Mexico. That does not mean Mexico has no risks. It means the risks are specific, they depend on where you go, and you can manage them, which is exactly what this guide covers.
Below, I break down the current State Department advisory for all 32 Mexican states, what changed in 2026, which cities I recommend, where I would not go, and the safety habits I use on every trip.
Updated October 2026, based on the U.S. State Department Mexico travel advisory issued May 29, 2026. Advisories change, so check the latest before you book.
Latest Mexico Safety Updates (October 2026)
- No new security alerts. The U.S. Embassy’s October 2026 alerts cover demonstrations in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Matamoros, plus storms. Avoid protests and large crowds.
- Hurricane season is still active. In mid-October, Hurricane Simon and the remnants of Rachel caused deadly flooding in Mexico, and Tropical Storm Trudy followed on the Pacific side. Hurricane season runs through November 30, so check forecasts before heading to Jalisco, Nayarit, or the rest of the Pacific coast.
- Tighter security at archaeological sites. After the April 2026 shooting at Teotihuacan, Mexico installed metal detectors at Teotihuacan and four other major archaeological sites.
- Cancun arrests. In September, six men were arrested for an armed attack that killed three people in Cancun’s Valle Verde neighborhood, a residential area outside the Hotel Zone.
I review this box monthly. Last checked October 25, 2026.
Table of Contents
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- Latest Mexico Safety Updates (October 2026)
- Is Mexico Safe to Travel Right Now? The Quick Answer
- What the 2026 Mexico Travel Advisory Says
- Mexico Safety Risks at a Glance
- What Is Happening With Cartels in Mexico Right Now
- How Safe Is Mexico Compared to U.S. Cities?
- Is Mexico Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
- Is Mexico Safe for Black Women Travelers?
- The Safest Places in Mexico for American Travelers
- Where Not to Go in Mexico
- Mexico Customs Rules for Electronics: What Happened to Me
- Common Scams in Mexico and How to Avoid Them
- Can You Drink the Water in Mexico? Food and Water Safety
- Medical Care in Mexico
- Is It Safe to Rent a Car in Mexico?
- My Top Safety Tips for Traveling in Mexico
- Are Resorts in Mexico Safe?
- What to Do If Something Goes Wrong in Mexico
- Emergency Numbers for Mexico
- FAQ: Is Mexico Safe to Travel?
- So, Should You Go to Mexico Right Now?
Is Mexico Safe to Travel Right Now? The Quick Answer
Yes, if you stick to the right states. Here is how the current advisory breaks down for the places travelers ask me about most.
| Advisory Level | Popular Destinations |
|---|---|
| Level 1: Exercise normal precautions | Mérida and the rest of Yucatán, Campeche |
| Level 2: Exercise increased caution | Cancun, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Los Cabos, La Paz, Loreto, Mexico City, Oaxaca, Riviera Nayarit (Punta Mita, Sayulita), Querétaro |
| Level 3: Reconsider travel | Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara (Jalisco), San Miguel de Allende (Guanajuato), Tijuana and Ensenada (Baja California), Chiapas, Chihuahua, Morelos, Sonora |
| Level 4: Do not travel | Acapulco (Guerrero), Mazatlán (Sinaloa), Colima, Michoacán, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas |
My bottom line: if your trip is in a Level 1 or Level 2 state, I would not cancel. Book smart, register with STEP, buy travel insurance, and use the safety habits in this guide. If your destination is in a Level 3 or Level 4 state, read the sections below before you decide.
What the 2026 Mexico Travel Advisory Says
The State Department issued its latest Mexico advisory on May 29, 2026. The country overall is at Level 2, but each of Mexico’s 32 states gets its own level, and two details surprise most travelers.
First, Yucatán and Campeche are at Level 1, the lowest level the State Department assigns. That makes Mérida one of the easiest places in Mexico to recommend, especially for solo women.
Second, Jalisco and Guanajuato are listed at Level 3 statewide. That includes Puerto Vallarta and San Miguel de Allende, two places many travelers assume are low risk.
The advisory also lists terrorism as a risk indicator for Mexico, alongside crime and kidnapping. That reflects the U.S. designation of several cartels as terrorist organizations.
It does not mean resort areas are being attacked. It means the State Department wants travelers to take cartel activity seriously in the states where it is concentrated.
The Full 2026 Mexico Travel Advisory by State
| Level | States |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | Campeche, Yucatán |
| Level 2 | Aguascalientes, Baja California Sur, Coahuila, Durango, Hidalgo, Mexico City, State of Mexico, Nayarit, Nuevo León, Oaxaca, Puebla, Querétaro, Quintana Roo, San Luis Potosí, Tabasco, Tlaxcala, Veracruz |
| Level 3 | Baja California, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Morelos, Sonora |
| Level 4 | Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas |
The question that fills my inbox every week: is Cabo safe if Tijuana is Level 3? Yes, because they are in different states. Los Cabos is in Baja California Sur, which is Level 2. Tijuana is in Baja California, which is Level 3. Before you book anything, look up the state your destination is in, not just the country.
Mexico Safety Risks at a Glance
Here is how I rate the most common risks for travelers in Mexico’s Level 1 and Level 2 tourist areas, based on my trips and the current advisory.
| Risk | My Rating | What to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Violent crime in tourist areas | Low to medium | Most violence is concentrated in Level 3 and Level 4 states and residential neighborhoods. |
| Pickpocketing and petty theft | Medium | Most common in crowded markets, beaches, and nightlife areas. |
| Scams | Medium | Taxis, ATM skimming, bill padding, and kidnapping phone scams. |
| Transportation | Low with vetted transfers | Risk rises with street taxis and driving at night. |
| Tap water | High | Do not drink it. Stick to bottled or purified water. |
| Natural disasters | Medium | Hurricane season runs June through November, and central Mexico has earthquakes. |
| Kidnapping | Low in tourist areas | High in Level 4 states. Watch for virtual kidnapping calls. |
| Women travelers | Low to medium | The same precautions you would use in any big city. |
What Is Happening With Cartels in Mexico Right Now
Let me be straight with you. Cartels are real, they are violent, and they are organized. The real question is whether any of that touches your vacation in Cancun or your girls’ trip to Cabo.
What Happened in February 2026
In February 2026, Mexican security forces killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
His death set off roadblocks and burning vehicles across 20 states, and Puerto Vallarta was hit hardest, with canceled flights and shelter-in-place orders for several days.
The situation calmed within the week, and Jalisco remains at Level 3, which is why I treat Puerto Vallarta differently from Cancun or Cabo.
The pattern with cartel violence is that it is intense and fast, and it is concentrated along trafficking routes, border areas, and territorial disputes.
Tourists are rarely targeted directly. The bigger risk is being in the wrong place when something happens nearby.
So should you cancel your trip because of cartel headlines? If your destination is Level 1 or Level 2, no. Monitor the news, register with STEP so you get alerts, and buy travel insurance that covers trip cancellation.
If your destination is Level 3 or Level 4, that is a different conversation, and the State Department is telling you to think carefully.
Before you travel to Mexico: do these three things
I do all three of these before every single Mexico trip. None of them take more than 10 minutes and together they give you a safety net most tourists never bother to set up.
Register with STEP
The U.S. State Department Smart Traveler Enrollment Program sends you real time alerts for your destination and puts you on the Embassy radar if something goes wrong.
Register FreeGet travel insurance
A medical emergency in Mexico can cost thousands out of pocket. Travelex covers trip cancellation, emergency evacuation, lost luggage, and medical expenses.
Get a QuoteMy pre-travel Mexico safety checklist
- Check the U.S. State Department advisory for the specific state you are visiting, not just Mexico overall
- Register with STEP so the Embassy knows where you are
- Purchase travel insurance before you fly, not after something happens
- Download Uber before you land: do not use street taxis at the airport
- Book airport transfers through your hotel or a verified service
- Save the local U.S. Embassy phone number in your phone before you go
- Share your itinerary with someone at home who knows how to reach you
- Book tours and excursions through Viator or your hotel concierge only
How Safe Is Mexico Compared to U.S. Cities?
Every time I post about Mexico, someone tells me it is too dangerous. And every time, I ask the same question: have you been recently, or are you going off the news? Context matters, so here are the numbers.
| Place | Homicides per 100,000 Residents | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Yucatán (Mérida), Mexico | 2.0 | 2025 |
| Mexico national average | 21.4 | 2025 |
| Chicago, Illinois | 21.5 | 2024 |
| Detroit, Michigan | 32.1 | 2024 |
| New Orleans, Louisiana | 34.1 | 2024 |
| Baltimore, Maryland | 35.6 | 2024 |
| Memphis, Tennessee | 38.0 | 2024 |
| St. Louis, Missouri | 52.9 | 2024 |
Sources: INEGI preliminary 2025 data for Mexico, as reported by Por Esto; 2024 U.S. city data from Wirepoints.
Mexico’s national average is about the same as Chicago’s, and Yucatán’s rate is a fraction of every American city on that list.
I lived in Memphis, so I know firsthand that a city’s numbers do not tell you what your trip will feel like. The same is true in Mexico.
Most violence is concentrated in specific states and neighborhoods, far from where tourists stay.
Americans made about 36.8 million visits to Mexico in 2024, according to Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, and the overwhelming majority of those trips ended without incident.
That does not mean you throw caution out the window. You would not wander through an unfamiliar neighborhood in any big city at 2 a.m., and the same common sense applies in Mexico. Travel with facts, not fear.
Is Mexico Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
I have traveled to Mexico solo many times, and I will keep going back. The biggest risk for solo women in Mexico is not cartels.
It is the same risk you face in New York, Paris, or Rome: situations where your guard is down, like accepting drinks from strangers, getting into unmarked taxis, or sharing too much with people you just met about where you are staying.
Most of my Mexico trips are girls’ trips with my bestie, and everything in this section applies to groups of women too. Traveling together does not mean you can let your guard down, especially at night.
Mérida is where I tell first-time solo travelers to start. It is walkable, well lit in the center at night, and sits in a Level 1 state.
Cancun’s Hotel Zone works well if you want a resort trip, as long as you are intentional about nightlife.
Los Cabos is excellent at the luxury end, and Mexico City’s Roma, Condesa, and Polanco neighborhoods are easy to explore with trusted transportation. For more, read my guide to the safest cities in Mexico for solo female travelers.
What I Do on Every Solo Trip to Mexico
- Register with the State Department’s STEP program before I fly.
- Book airport transfers in advance through my hotel or a verified service, and never get into an unmarked taxi.
- Share my full itinerary, including hotel names and addresses, with someone at home.
- Keep a copy of my passport separate from the real one.
- Leave designer bags and flashy jewelry in the hotel safe.
- Never leave my drink unattended, and always have a plan for getting back to my hotel.
- Trust my gut. If something feels off, I leave without explaining myself.
That last one matters more than people realize. Women are taught to be polite even when we are uncomfortable. Mexico is not the place to override your instincts to be agreeable.
Is Mexico Safe for Black Women Travelers?
Most Mexico safety guides are written for a generic traveler. I am a Black woman, and Mexico has been one of the most welcoming international destinations I have visited.
I have felt less racial tension in Cancun, Cabo, Puerto Vallarta, and Mexico City than in some American cities I have driven through on road trips.
That does not mean Mexico is free of racism. Colorism exists in Mexico, as it does throughout Latin America, and you may notice lighter-skinned tourists getting quicker service in a restaurant or shop.
But I have not experienced targeted racism in Mexico’s major tourist destinations, and you will see plenty of Black American travelers in Cancun and the Riviera Maya, especially around spring break, Memorial Day, and Labor Day weekends.
If you want culture beyond the beach, Oaxaca is worth a trip for its food scene and the Afro-Mexican communities of the Costa Chica region.
Mexico City’s Roma and Condesa neighborhoods are diverse, cosmopolitan, and full of incredible restaurants. You belong here, and you are welcome.
The Safest Places in Mexico for American Travelers
Safe does not mean zero risk. Nowhere on earth is zero risk, including your hometown. These are places I have been, would go back to, and would recommend to any woman traveling solo or with a group.
Is Mérida Safe?
Yes. Mérida is the capital of Yucatán, one of only two Level 1 states in Mexico, with a homicide rate of about 2 per 100,000.
It is a colonial city with great food, beautiful architecture, and no heavy party scene. If you want culture, history, and safety in one place, Mérida belongs at the top of your list.
Where I would stay: near Paseo de Montejo, so you can walk to restaurants and the historic center. Check Mérida hotel rates here.
Is Cancun Safe?
I was just in Cancun in October 2026 to celebrate my sister-in-law’s birthday. We booked a catamaran trip to Isla Mujeres through Viator, spent the whole day on the island, and rented golf carts to get around, which is the easiest way to see it.
If you want to do the same, read my guide to the Isla Mujeres day trip from Cancun.
Cancun sits in Quintana Roo at Level 2. The Hotel Zone is built around tourism, heavily patrolled, and full of resorts. Most problems happen outside the Hotel Zone.
In 2026, for example, an armed attack in the residential Valle Verde neighborhood killed three people, and six men were arrested in September. Incidents involving tourists are usually tied to nightlife, not random targeting.
Stay in the Hotel Zone, and book airport and hotel transfers in advance, because disputes between local taxi drivers and Uber have led to confrontations in Quintana Roo.
Use vetted transportation, and book excursions through verified operators. Read my full guide on whether Cancun is safe.
Where I would stay: the Hotel Zone. Compare luxury hotels in Cancun here.
Is Los Cabos Safe?
Los Cabos is my personal favorite. My bestie Rhonda and I go every spring for our girls’ trip.
Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo sit in Baja California Sur, a Level 2 state, and the resort corridor draws high-end tourism with serious investment in security.
Stay within the resort corridor, do not drive outside it at night, and use hotel-arranged transportation. Read more in my guide on whether Cabo is safe.
Where I would stay: the resort corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. See Los Cabos hotels here.
Is Tulum Safe?
Tulum is also in Quintana Roo at Level 2. Stay on the beach road or in town, and arrange transportation through your hotel. Avoid driving rural roads after dark.
Here is my full guide on whether Tulum is safe.
Where I would stay: on the beach road or in Tulum town. Compare Tulum hotels here.
Is Mexico City Safe?
Mexico City is Level 2. I stayed in Polanco and Roma, and both felt as secure as any major U.S. city.
Stick to established neighborhoods, use trusted transportation, and avoid wandering late at night. See my guide on whether Mexico City is safe.
If you are planning a day trip to the Teotihuacan pyramids, know that in April 2026 a gunman opened fire from the Pyramid of the Moon, killing a Canadian woman and injuring 13 tourists, including six Americans.
Mexico has since added metal detectors at Teotihuacan and four other major archaeological sites, and access to the pyramid was restricted after the site reopened.
It is still one of the most visited sites in Mexico, so book a reputable guided tour and go early in the day.
Where I would stay: Polanco or Roma, the two neighborhoods I have stayed in. Compare Mexico City hotels here.
Is Puerto Vallarta Safe?
Puerto Vallarta had a frightening few days in February 2026, and Jalisco is at Level 3 statewide. Millions of travelers still visit, and the Malecón and resort areas returned to normal quickly.
If you go, stay in established tourist areas, monitor alerts, and have travel insurance. If the Level 3 rating makes you uneasy, Riviera Nayarit, just north in a Level 2 state, gives you the same Pacific coastline. Read my guide on whether Puerto Vallarta is safe.
Where I would stay: near the Malecón or in the resort areas. Compare Puerto Vallarta hotels here.
Is San Miguel de Allende Safe?
San Miguel de Allende has long been one of the safest-feeling cities in Mexico, with a large expat community and a walkable historic center.
Guanajuato is at Level 3 statewide, so check the latest advisory, book transportation through your hotel, and avoid driving between cities at night.
Where I would stay: in the walkable historic center. Compare San Miguel de Allende hotels here.
Also on my list: Isla Mujeres, where we rented golf carts and spent the day exploring, and Loreto, which I visited in December 2025.
Both are quieter Level 2 destinations that feel worlds away from the crowds. Read more in my guide to things to do in Loreto.
Planning a trip to Mexico? Start here.
I only recommend hotels I would actually stay in. These are my top picks across Mexico’s safest tourist destinations: book through these links for the best available rates.
Do not leave for Mexico without travel insurance.
Medical emergencies in Mexico can cost thousands out of pocket. Travelex covers trip cancellation, medical evacuation, and lost luggage.
Where Not to Go in Mexico
I have spent most of this guide telling you where Mexico is safe. This is where I tell you the places I would not go and would not recommend to anyone I care about.
Tamaulipas
Tamaulipas borders Texas and includes Nuevo Laredo, Matamoros, and Reynosa. It is Level 4 and has one of the highest kidnapping risks in Mexico. Do not drive through it on a road trip.
There is nothing there worth the risk.
Sinaloa
Sinaloa is home to the Sinaloa Cartel and is Level 4. Mazatlán is in Sinaloa, and I know the beaches and prices are tempting. With so many Level 2 beach destinations in Mexico, the savings are not worth it.
Guerrero, Including Acapulco
Acapulco was once one of Mexico’s most glamorous beach towns, but Guerrero is Level 4. If you want the Pacific coast, choose Los Cabos or Riviera Nayarit instead.
Colima, Michoacán, and Zacatecas
All three are Level 4. Colima has had some of the highest homicide rates in Mexico, and Michoacán and Zacatecas have seen years of fighting between criminal groups. If they come up on a road trip route, plan around them.
Border Towns
Tijuana is in Baja California, which is Level 3. If you go for medical tourism or a day trip from San Diego, stay in established areas, go during the day, and use trusted transportation.
I would not send a first-time Mexico traveler there. My rule: if a destination is Level 3 or Level 4, I ask whether a similar experience exists in a Level 1 or Level 2 state.
The answer is almost always yes.
Mexico Customs Rules for Electronics: What Happened to Me
Nobody warned me about this. I arrived in Mexico with my usual setup as a content creator: laptop, phone, tablet, and camera.
I was stopped at customs and charged an import fee for carrying more electronic devices than the allowance, even though I had traveled with the same gear on many trips before. For a laptop, the fee can run a few hundred dollars.
I know because I paid it.
When I shared what happened in an Instagram Reel, it was viewed more than 1.2 million times, and thousands of people said the same thing had happened to them.
In October 2024, after a wave of complaints, Quintana Roo’s governor announced that Cancun’s airport would stop charging this duty. Enforcement can still vary by airport and officer, so protect yourself:
- Bring only the devices you need.
- Carry receipts or proof of purchase for anything that looks new or expensive.
- Do not pack devices in their original boxes.
- If you are charged a fee you believe is wrong, calmly ask for a supervisor, and write down the officer’s name and badge number.
Common Scams in Mexico and How to Avoid Them
Every major tourist destination has scams, and Mexico is no different. Here are the ones I see most and how I avoid them.
Taxi Scams
At most major airports, taxi touts approach you the moment you clear customs. Some are legitimate, but many overcharge, and some are not licensed at all.
Book your transfer in advance through your hotel or a verified service, use official taxi stands (called sitios), and use Uber where it operates.
In Cancun and the Riviera Maya, I book hotel transfers instead, because of ongoing disputes between taxi drivers and Uber. Never get into a vehicle that approaches you unsolicited.
ATM Skimming
Skimming devices are a real problem in tourist areas, and you often cannot spot them. I only use ATMs inside bank branches during banking hours, never convenience store, hotel lobby, or gas station machines.
I also travel with a credit card that has no foreign transaction fees and tell my bank before I go.
Restaurant Bill Padding
Some restaurants in tourist areas add items you did not order or charge for bread and chips presented as complimentary.
Review your bill line by line and question anything that looks off. A polite correction usually solves it.
Currency Exchange
Airport exchange booths usually have the worst rates, and street exchanges can hand you counterfeit bills. Use a bank ATM for pesos instead.
Virtual and Express Kidnapping
This is the scam I most want my readers to know about. In a virtual kidnapping, scammers call your family back home, claim they have kidnapped you, and demand a ransom, often while they have tricked you into going silent by staying in your room or turning off your phone.
Agree on a code word with your family before you leave, keep your phone on, and never share your hotel or room number on social media in real time.
Express kidnapping is when someone forces a person to withdraw cash from ATMs, often after getting into an unofficial taxi.
It is the biggest reason I only use pre-booked transfers, official taxi stands, and bank ATMs during the day.
Can You Drink the Water in Mexico? Food and Water Safety
No, do not drink the tap water in Mexico.
Drink bottled or purified water, and use it to brush your teeth too.
Most hotels and resorts provide purified water, and ice in established restaurants and hotels is usually made from purified water, but ask if you are unsure.
Stomach trouble ruins more Mexico trips than crime does.
Eat at busy restaurants and street food stands with high turnover, where food is cooked fresh in front of you, and be careful with raw seafood, salads, and fruit that may have been rinsed in tap water.
I always pack an over-the-counter remedy for stomach upset and electrolyte packets.
Medical Care in Mexico
Tourist areas like Cancun, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, and Mexico City have private hospitals with English-speaking staff, but they often expect payment up front.
Most U.S. health plans do not cover care in Mexico, and Medicare generally does not cover care outside the United States.
That is why I never travel to Mexico without travel insurance that includes medical coverage and emergency evacuation.
Ask your hotel which private hospital it uses, and save that address in your phone with your insurance policy number.
Is It Safe to Rent a Car in Mexico?
Yes, in Level 1 and Level 2 areas, and I rent cars in Mexico regularly to explore cenotes in Yucatán or drive the Baja coast. The key is insurance.
Mexican law requires liability insurance, and many U.S. credit cards and auto policies do not cover it in Mexico.
Before you rent, call your card issuer and your auto insurer to ask exactly what applies in Mexico, and do not leave the counter without liability coverage.
Drive during the day, stick to toll roads (cuotas), and keep doors locked at stoplights. If you break down, Mexico’s Green Angels (Ángeles Verdes) roadside assistance can be reached by dialing 078.
If a police officer asks for cash outside an official fine, stay calm and politely ask for a written ticket and the location of the payment office. That usually ends it.
My Top Safety Tips for Traveling in Mexico
- Avoid driving at night outside resort and city areas.
- Never buy or carry drugs. Penalties are severe, and it puts you around the people behind the violence.
- Watch your drink, and do not let strangers buy you drinks.
- Keep valuables in the hotel safe and dress to blend in.
- Learn a few Spanish phrases. Courtesy goes a long way.
- Trust your instincts, and leave any situation that feels wrong.
- Check hurricane forecasts if you travel between June and November, especially on the Pacific coast and the Riviera Maya.
Are Resorts in Mexico Safe?
Yes. Tourism is one of Mexico’s most important industries, so the major resort areas in Cancun, Los Cabos, the Riviera Maya, and Riviera Nayarit get serious investment in security, and the top properties have private security and staff trained to look after guests.
These are my favorite luxury resorts, all in Level 2 states.
Rosewood Mayakoba, Riviera Maya
An eco-luxury resort set among lagoons and mangroves, with suites and villas that have private plunge pools, a beachfront, a top spa, and a championship golf course.
Las Ventanas al Paraíso, A Rosewood Resort, Los Cabos
A Cabo classic known for its ocean-view suites, personal butler service, a world-class spa, and some of the best dining in Los Cabos.
Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, Riviera Nayarit
Casitas and villas overlooking the Pacific, championship golf, and a spa, in a private peninsula community north of Puerto Vallarta.
Chablé Maroma, Riviera Maya
A beachfront retreat with private plunge pools, holistic spa treatments, and direct access to one of the best beaches on the Riviera Maya.
St. Regis Punta Mita Resort, Riviera Nayarit
Spacious suites with private terraces, several restaurants, championship golf, and a Remède Spa on a quiet stretch of the Pacific coast.
What to Do If Something Goes Wrong in Mexico
If You Are Robbed
Hand over what they ask for. Your safety matters more than your phone or cash. Get somewhere safe, call 911, and file a police report, which you will need for any insurance claim. Then cancel your cards.
If You Lose Your Passport
Report it to local police, then contact the nearest U.S. embassy, consulate, or consular agency for an emergency passport.
The U.S. has consulates in cities including Guadalajara and Mérida, and consular agencies in tourist areas including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Los Cabos, and Puerto Vallarta.
Find yours on the U.S. Embassy in Mexico website. Keep a photo of your passport on your phone and a printed copy in your bag.
If You Are Arrested or Detained
Stay calm, do not sign anything you do not understand, and ask authorities to notify the U.S. Embassy or the nearest consulate. You have the right to contact them.
Stay Connected to Alerts
Register with STEP before you go, and follow the U.S. Embassy in Mexico’s alerts so you know about protests, storms, or security issues while you are there.
Emergency Numbers for Mexico
- Emergencies (police, fire, ambulance): 911
- U.S. Embassy in Mexico City: +52-55-5080-2000
- From the U.S., State Department Overseas Citizens Services: 1-888-407-4747
- Green Angels roadside assistance: 078
Save these in your phone before you land, along with your hotel’s number and address.
FAQ: Is Mexico Safe to Travel?
Yes, for most travelers who stick to Level 1 and Level 2 states. As of the May 29, 2026 State Department advisory, Yucatán and Campeche are Level 1, and popular destinations like Cancun, Tulum, Los Cabos, and Mexico City are Level 2. Six states are Level 4, Do Not Travel.
Mérida, in the Level 1 state of Yucatán, is one of the safest places in Mexico, with a homicide rate of about 2 per 100,000 residents in 2025.
Cancun is in Quintana Roo, which is Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution. The Hotel Zone is heavily patrolled, and most incidents happen outside it, often tied to nightlife.
Puerto Vallarta returned to normal quickly after the February 2026 unrest, but Jalisco is at Level 3, Reconsider Travel. If you go, stay in established tourist areas and monitor alerts.
The State Department rates Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas at Level 4, Do Not Travel.
Yes, with the same precautions you would use in any major destination. Mérida, Cancun’s Hotel Zone, Los Cabos, and Mexico City’s Roma and Polanco neighborhoods are good choices.
In my experience, yes. I have not experienced targeted racism in Mexico’s major tourist destinations, though colorism exists, as it does throughout Latin America.
Teotihuacan reopened two days after the April 2026 shooting, and Mexico has since added metal detectors at Teotihuacan and four other major archaeological sites. Book a reputable guided tour and go early in the day.
No. Drink bottled or purified water, and use it to brush your teeth. Most hotels and resorts provide purified water.
So, Should You Go to Mexico Right Now?
Mexico is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich countries I have explored, and it keeps calling me back. It is not off-limits.
It just asks you to plan with intention: pick a Level 1 or Level 2 destination, use vetted transportation and tour operators, check the advisory before you book, and make safety part of your itinerary.
Before you go, grab my Comprehensive Travel Safety Guide. It is packed with the practical advice I use on every international trip. Then plan the rest of your trip with these guides:
- Is Cancun Safe?
- Is Cabo Safe?
- Is Tulum Safe?
- Is Puerto Vallarta Safe?
- Is Mexico City Safe?
- Is Isla Mujeres Safe?
- Is Loreto Safe?
- Packing List for Mexico
- The Best Los Cabos All-Inclusive Hotels
Have a question about safety in a specific Mexican destination? Leave it in the comments, and I will answer it.
Save this post to your Pinterest board for later, and follow Passports and Grub on Pinterest for more travel safety guides.
Thank you for the great information. After a long time I am going to visit North America and my first plan to visit Mexico.For this awesome place, I already discussed and contact with Oscar Cancun Shuttle for transportation from Airport to travel places.
“President Trump and the American media wants you, and everyone else to believe that Mexico, Dominican Republic, Haiti and other countries where the majority of the population are black and brown people are the most dangerous places to visit and it’s simply not true.”
With this statement, you lost all credibility. Thanks for making it a political site. In the future, I’d steer clear of assumptions and use facts. Otherwise you’ll lose readers like me.
Facts are facts.. Mexico is safer than most U.S. cities. When was the last time you visited Mexico? When was the last time you were robbed in Mexico? When was the last time your wife or a woman you know was raped. I travel to Mexico solo and with my husband and nothing has ever happened to me. Are you regurgitating what the media wants you to believe or have you had first hand experience with crime in Mexico.
What about the crime right here in the U.S.?
you lost all credibility as well for not doing your research and listening to one side. As an avid traveler who loves my family I would take my daughter to Mexico over Rome in a heartbeat.
We will agree to disagree on traveling to Mexico. I am planning my next visit now and can’t wait.
First, my wife and I are world travellers and we are not the party type when we travel. The bad stories you hear about Mexico are true. I have been to Mexico multiple times and while some areas can be beautiful, we have found that almost everyone there is trying to cheat you somehow. Whether it is the cab or bus driver giving you incorrect change, A cab cartel that fixes prices so high that a 10 minute cab ride is $40 to $70US, as they try to block Uber, overpriced food that is sold as high quality but what you get is inferior (advertised USDA Prime steak but get a tough dry low quality cut of meat most likely from a backyard butcher) and before you ask why are you eating steak in Mexico the answer is because all of the tourist destinations only have Italian, American, and Japanese restaurants or horrible fancy Mexican restaurants- you have to take the risk and go into town for authentic mexican to eat the authentic mystery meat tacos which are usually inferior to Mexican in Los Angeles because of the inferior ingredients. Dishonest timeshare salespeople everywhere posing as your tour operator or just straight up lying which is constant from the time you arrive at the airport. I watched a timeshare representative at the airport threaten an old lady with arrest because she told one of the potential victims that they were getting defrauded. Cops who are only there to rob tourists and protect cartel. In fact the police chief in Cancun area was recently beheaded by one cartel for taking sides with another. We have been pulled over, infractions made up and robbed every time we have rented a car in mexico. You in general have to watch your back and constantly be on guard so you aren’t cheated or robbed. Cheap sometimes dangerous alcohol filled into brand name bottles so they can cheat you that way also. We have had some pleasant experiences at the resorts that we have stayed at, but those have come at a cost higher then vacations to Hawaii or other safer and more beautiful tropical locations. The cheap Mexico vacation doesn’t exist in places like Cancun, Cabo, and Riviera Maya. Your life is cheaper in Mexico than many places in the world and the people there are opportunists. If they can cheat you in some way they will. Health standards are far below what an American or European tourist is used to. Since you mention Rome, Rome is far safer then even the “safe places” in Mexico. In Rome You aren’t likely to get shot in a public place, blown up on a ferry, beheaded, cheated at every turn, and the health standrds and cleanliness far exceed any city in mexico. You may get pickpocketed if you look like an overweight poorly dressed american with a fanny pack. And yes there are dangerous places in every city. But here in Los Angeles it’s the areas that are predominantly Mexican that are the dangerous areas. I haven’t seen an area improve as migrants take over. Could there be a correlation? Maybe you live in one of those areas, so Mexico feels just as clean and safe as home to you?Adding your political views negates your argument that Mexico is a safe place. Statistics show the truth, migration shows the truth. Any political issues should be aimed at the Mexican politicians who are partners with the cartels and the Mexican people who go along with it as the status quo instead of fixing the issues. Am I saying a trip to Mexico is going to mean certain doom for you? No. But you definitely can’t relax and put your guard down like you can in other nice places. For my money there is much nicer safer places to go. Plus I don’t want my money to benefit the corrupt people down there. The high prices you pay don’t trickle down to make the lives of the lowly workers better. The cartels and politicians cash in while the regular people barely survive.
A very true statement..
You are absolutely correct and those who state that Mexico is safe are in denial!
Those who state that Mexico is safe are in denial! Many, many instances where tourists are robbed, assaulted, kidnapped, raped. The Mexican media of course attempts to downplay these incidents.
Yep, lost me in that 1st paragraph. Keep spouting the political brainwash. Turn off MSNBS. Take a Border Patrol agent to lunch sometime. Learn what’s really happening. Remember, Congress makes the laws. Stop looking at life through a racial lens.
I am sorry if I lost you at the paragraph but unfortunately you might need to look through a different lense and that is what travel . is all about. Mexico isnt this big bad place where you will be slaughtered at every turn and I suggest you turn off Fox News.
Agree 100%
Whoever wrote this pathetic article is a fucking joke. They couldn’t wait to say Trump is racist towards black and brown people. #pathetic
I agree, after this crap statement… they lost all credibility. The writer is pushing racism. The travel advisories has zero to do with skin color. It’s about safety. You might need to look through a different lens writer and honestly consider that race may be irrelevant with this???
Personally if I’m gonna be slaughtered, I’d be pissed no matter what color someone happened to be, maybe you are different. Oh btw President Trump and American main steam media aren’t on the same team if you haven’t bothered to watch the news or anything else. Only morons are still trying to race bait.
I totally agree with this person about losing your readership. You lost me too as soon as you put your untruthful, ignorant opinions in this article. You should stick to writing about stuff you actually know about.
Why is it necessary to bring race into your post? As in the US cities where there is a majority of black and brown people there is much more crime. It is documented and everyone knows it yet the media and many individuals will not agree because they are afraid of being labeled racist. There is far more crime in countries where the majority of citizens are black or brown. Do your own survey.
I bring race into the post because it matters. Mexico has the same travel warning as Europe and many other countries but they dont have the stigma that Mexico has. I have never been robbed, kidnapped or raped or even pickpocketed why visiting Mexico but the media will have you believe it’s more dangerous than the US.
lol, no great loss “Jeff”. It will be your loss because this woman has provided a most thorough examination of travel in Mexico.
I just read into “is It Safe To Travel To Mexico”….This is exhausting and stressful but I’ve already made plans to this country I’ve been wanting to return to and I don’t want to cancel them (I’ll loose money). With that said I leave for Mexico in early June. My plans are Mexico City for 2 days than a bus to Taxco, MX, as Taxco was the main reason to return to purchase and photograph this small quaint town filled with churches. I may have to cancel this part of my trip.
No! Dont cancel! Mexico is completely safe and I went last year and everything was fine. Italy, Europe and a lot of other countries have the same warning level.
Mexico is not completely safe!! You have to be careful and try your best not to look like a tourist. Btw,, I’m Mexican…
Maru- I think there is crime everywhere and to single an entire country out is crazy to me. I am in Tennessee and if you go looking for trouble you will find trouble. I felt more unsafe in Rome than I did Mexico and Rome has the same level 2 warning that Mexico has but Rome doesn’t have the same stigma associated with crime.
What if I stay at my resort and don’t leave. Then a I safe??
Why would you want to just stay at your resort? unless the resort is all inclusive
Staying at the resort and not leaving was the only time we felt safe and were able to relax in many trips to Mexico. Saying it is safe is hogwash. If you aren’t on guard all the time you will be a victim.
I’m so glad I found “is it safe to travel to Mexico”. My daughter (20) and 8 of her sorority sisters are going on a cruise in March and the two stops are Cozumel and Puerta Costa Maya. I feel somewhat better about their safety after reading your article. Do you have anything to add for cruise ship safety or safety at these ports? I’m excited for her, but still a nervous momma.
Mexico is completely safe so need to worry. I am going back in April myself. I am sure they know all of the rules about not taking drinks from strangers and make sure they have safe words. It might sound silly to them to create a safe word because nobody ever thinks something is going to happen until it does.
Plans for Puerto Vallarta early spring? Very concerned.
No need to be concerned. If you are not concerned about Italy or other parts of Europe no need to be concerned about Mexico. I was felt more unsafe in Rome than I did in Mexico
I will be traveling with my husband and two little kids to Puerto Vallarta in August. I would love to hear your feedback when you return.
My family just booked a cruise for late April that stops in the Yuccatan and Cozumel. What about safety when you are on a cruise ship? Any ideas?
We did that cruise last year and felt safe. We even rented our own car for Cozumel and felt safe driving around. (We are a family of 5 with blonde haired blue eyed kids.)
Melissa- Exactly! If you are not in the hood looking for drugs and trying to buy hookers you will probably be ok. I thought I was going to get robbed in Rome but never once did I feel unsafe in Mexico
Do you have a recommended taxi company we can use in cancun for transport from airport to our hotel?
I will be traveling to Acapulco in July with my husband and four kids ages 12,10,3,2. This would be our first trip to Mexico. Will be staying at a resort. But my mother wants us to visit her grandma and she lives in the edges or Acapulco. Will be renting a van and will be driving an hour. Will spend the night with her. Any advice please.
Morning Olivia-
Congratulations on your trip to Mexico. I will suggest not driving at night. If you are going to visit your great grandmother make sure you leave early in the afternoon so you will not be driving at night. Other than that enjoy your trip and follow all of the safety precautions in the post like not wearing flashy jewelry or clothes and dont get drunk. I doubt that will happen because you are with your kiddos and mom.
WOW! I just stumbled on your site, and like you, I plan to travel this world before my “final exit”. Thank you again for providing travelers with information. I look forward to your future blogs.
Yours in Travel,
Thanks so much Lorenzo! Happy to have you and please feel free to reach out and follow me on facebook and instagram
We leave for Mexico in 2 weeks, and with the latest on Venezula, should we cancel?
I saw on the news today Venezuela was experiencing some issues. Let me do some research tonight and I will get back with you first thing in the morning.
PLAN ON TRAVELING TO CANCUN WITH A GROUP OF MY GIRLFIRENDS AND WOULD LIKE TO DO AN AIR BNB. IS THIS SAFE? OR SHOULD WE REMAIN AT A RESORT??
I stayed two nights at an air bnb and we were perfectly fine. I suggest finding one that has a chef and they will prepare authentic Mexican cuisine and you won’t have to worry about going out every morning to find breakfast.
Hi, we’re leaving in 3 weeks, we will be staying 3 nights in Tulum, 1 in chichen itza, 2 in Mérida and 2 in Cancun. We’re quite nervous about this. How safe will we be?
Hi Nancy. There is no reason to be nervous whatsoever. as I stated Italy, Czech Republic, Spain, and other countries have the same level warning which just means be safe. I felt more unsafe in Rome than I did Mexico so no need to worry.
Regulated prescriptions were a concern of my wife and I crossing the border. I’ll be bringing Adderall and she has sleep medication. I was told that the original bottle is sufficient with clear labeling. And how do you secure them in your motel room?
Hey Bruce- I suggest getting a written note from your doctor and do not pull the label off. Make sure you have a written prescription in case you lose your medication.
My 19 year old son and 2 friends are planning to go to Cozumel and stay at an air bnb by the cruise ship pier. They want to go fishing. Should I be worried and encourage them to go elsewhere? Your site implies they will be fine if they keep their noses clean. Any advice would be helpful. Thanks.
Kristi- you are exactly right. I have traveled all over Mexico and I nothing has happened to me. Mexico is no different than any other city or country. If you stay out of bad areas and dont go looking for trouble you wont find any. as I stated in the article I felt more unsafe in Rome than I did in Mexico.
If you had a choice of Belize or Puerta Vallarta which would you do? Which do you fell is safer, we have kids ages 12, 12, 15.
I went to Belize last year to the Belize lobster festival ( https://passportsandgrub.com/placencia-lobster-festival/ ) we had a ball and there were tons of kids everywhere. if your family loves seafood you can have lobster prepared every way imaginable! I suggest Belize and if you are adventurous ditch the beach and stay in the jungle at Ka’ana Luxury Resort. I have a review on the resort and also their the little blue hole that the kids can actually jump in. Its amazing
I am trying to plan a trip to Cancun in September 2019. I went many years ago and drove to Chichen Itcha, Tulum and Xcaret. Would like to do the same this trip. Rental cars are very cheap. We will be a group of at least 5 adults and can drive during the day instead of at night. Do you think this is safe?
I think you will be ok. Don’t go trying to buy drugs and keep your noses clean but you should do that when you are traveling anywhere. I’ve visited Mexico plenty of times and my husband and I have never experienced anything but sweet and kind people.
Hello, I am going to Cancun in March and I’m a little nervous as I am taking 2 small children. Is there any activities you recommend, any transportation from the airline to hotel ? Any tips anything else that would be helpful ? Thank you !
my first question is are you staying at an all-inclusive resort? If you are staying at all-inclusive resort all if not most of the activities should be included.
My husband and I plan to travel next month – we would like to see the ruins in Tulum. Do you recommend staying in a larger city like Cancun or Cozumel or is Tulum ok?
Cancun and Cozumel are just like staying in any American city and you will be completely safe. I recommend staying in Cancun or Cozumel since you are older.
Hi-Webare traveling to Cancun to stay at GR SOLARIS for and all inclusive visit . I feel like just staying at the resort and Evan so , question our safety . we are a group of seniors and nervous to begin with . We want to know your option on this hotel and security measures all around . Thanks, Marcia
Hi-Webare traveling to Cancun to stay at GR SOLARIS for and all inclusive visit . I feel like just staying at the resort and Evan so , question our safety . we are a group of seniors. Thanks, Marcia
Thinking of a trip in July to Rocky Point. We really want to go but have been warned that it may not be completely safe. The part of the trip I have been warned the most about is driving there. We would be driving from the Tuscon area using a rental car. Any advice? We would be staying at an AirBnb owned by an American couple.
Carol-
I just wrote an article about the best beaches in Mexico and most of them you will need to rent a car and venture out on your own. I think you will be just fine. As i stated if you are not going into crime-ridden areas looking for drugs and stay on the main roads you will be fine. Use your common sense and stay out of trouble. Mexico has a level 2 warning and for the most part the people of mexico are very safe and friendly. They need tourism dollars and I have never had an issue in my travels to Mexico
is Mazatlan OK to travel to??
I am traveling to Puerto Vallarta with my two little kids ( 5 & 10) and husband in August and am becoming paranoid about the “reconsider travel” alert that is on this area. I worry that a young family would be a target, am I crazy? We are staying at a 4 star resort and have shuttles arranged to and from the airport. I also hope to do an excursion or two but want to make sure I am keeping us safe. Thoughts?
We have been travelling to Mexico for 12 years now and we love it so much we invested and spend our winters here! After considering Chapala, Ajijic and Puerto Vallarta, we opted to purchase a home about an hour north of Manzanillo. Many friends and neighbors go to Manzanillo regularly for fun, dining, shopping and other stuff like excellent dental work at a fraction of the cost that one pays at home in Canada. We love the small town ambiance to be found in Barra de Navidad, Melaque, La Manzanilla and Cuestocomate. We feel completely safe. I don’t do anything here that I would not do in Toronto. We lock the doors we leave the house, we do not leave valuables in plain sight in our car, etc. So come on down and enjoy!
exactly! I cant understand why people think it is so unsafe. Use common sense and you will be fine. Do you leave your valuables out in plain sight in the states? are you buying drugs? are you riding around in not so nice neighborhoods in the states? Use the same common sense you do anywhere else you will be fine. Thanks so much for the comment
I’m traveling next month and I’m worried and have high anxiety because of my two kids. But I’m glad I ran into your site. I am also going to Nayarit, is that safe?? please advise
Malika- I have never been to Nayarit but I did a little digging before I responded and this is what I found. It is a level 3 where most parts of Mexico is a level 2. I would be careful and make sure you are aware of your surrounding. I checked with another travel blogger and she stated she just left this area and didnt have any issues. I will see what else I can find for you.
Nayarit state – Level 3: Reconsider Travel
Reconsider travel due to crime.
Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Nayarit state. U.S. government employees may not travel to:
Tepic
San Blas
There are no restrictions on travel for U.S government employees to: Riviera Nayarit (including Nuevo Vallarta and Bahia de Banderas) and Santa Maria del Oro.
Hi, I have family that live in Nayarit in the city of Tepic near San Blas. I just came back from visiting. Unfortunately, my grandmother who lived there passed away and I made the trip down. I hadn’t visited in 10 years because of the travel advisories and I regret it deeply. Once I was there, I realized I may have been duped by the American media. It is absolutely gorgeous and I felt very safe at all times. I’m not going to let time go by again without seeing my extended family that lives there and enjoying this beautiful place. I actually felt more unsafe when I was in Paris.
The media would like for us think that Mexico is full of thugs and you will be killed. THat is not the case. There is a criminal element no matter the destination and take the same precautions you would at home. you can’t trust the American press
I have appreciated your research and reassurance to all who have posed these questions to you. However, several times you reference that the press have exaggerated the danger of travel in Mexico. You now said “you can’t trust the American press”. Earlier you were chastised for criticizing Trump and his attacks on the Mexican people, making them out to be dangerous, criminals, and murders (that last part I took liberties with but they are Trump’s words from various points in time). Trump also espouses that you can’t trust the American press. You have now aligned yourself right there with him. Bad news for you. I only go into this with such gusto due to the fact that I have not experienced the media overly covering the travel advisories or creating excessive drama around the danger. Perhaps you have been a bit thin skinned on the topic. The State Department puts out the status as they see fit and it’s up to the rest of us to research and determine the real seriousness of the situation. You have done so and have shared it admirably. I see more knee jerk reaction from the general public that has created the hysteria rather than it being perpetuated by the press. I leave it to you to continue to give great facts and tips on danger and safety, as it is greatly needed and well received by those seeking the information. Thanks!
Hi
We are planning to go to Mexico in March. We will book a resort all inclusive, We have plan to got to beach, chichun itza ,xcaret and There is one road in Cancun where we can go. I am worried because i have 2 kids and one is 7 months old baby with me. i am thinking if it is safe to travel there with baby??Please advice
Hi Sonia- are you renting a car to go to the beach?
Is is safe in secrets Akamai?
I have not stayed at the secrets resorts but let me see what I can find out and I will get back with you.
Tomiko, Mexico in these areas are now up to a Level 4. I’m looking to visit Manzanillo. How do you feel about this area? The US government is saying Don’t go at all??
I did a little research and everything I found said Manzanillo was safe and crime was virtually nonexistent because the Mexican army and Navy is based there. I checked my friend’s Goats on the road and they sent me this article.
https://www.goatsontheroad.com/manzanillo-colima-travel-guide/
Good article, aside from this preachy, accusatory bit: “Are you concerned about traveling to Italy? Italy has the same level 2 warning so why is Mexico considered more violent and why are you asking is it safe to travel to Mexico?”. You never answer your, I assume, rhetorical question. You very well know why, because chopped up tourists stuffed in car trunks are splashed across the evening news. That’s why, so why the superior tone? The answer to Q1 would be yes, I would be concerned about traveling to certain parts of Italy.
Steve- of course, the article was accusatory because I felt more threatened in Rome than I did in Mexico. Rome is notorious for criminal activity but it does not receive the same “fear” as other destinations. I ask why is that? Why is Mexico considered so dangerous but other destinations with the same warning level is not? I have traveled all over Mexico and I have never felt unsafe.
Tomiko, obviously you are a paid promoter of mexican tourism. Mexico is not safe, sure maybe a small percentage run in to issues but do you want that small percentage to be your family killed? Ask Tyler Meyers family what they think of Mexico. I have been there recently and did not feel safe. All Americans are targets. Travel advisories are in place for a reason and even they are not as strong as they should be. Avoid Mexico.
I am not a paid promoter of the Mexican Tourism board and they actually are not even aware of my article. I wrote the article I felt very unsafe in Rome and was frightened for my life but while I was in Mexico I felt completely safe and at ease. Everyone was asking me was I afraid to go to Mexico. When was the last time you visited Mexico or are you just saying avoid Mexico because the media tells to you avoid Mexico?
I am going to Cancun in April with two of my old college friends. I am not the least bit concerned but they are. They feel like once we transfer to hotel we should stay at resort. I have been to Cabo but never Cancun and want to visit Tulum. I also want to do an excursion to Isla Mujeres. I plan to book all excursions through resort. Should my friends be concerned and how can I convince them it is safe?
all three destinations are safe but I havent been to Tulum in years and I recently heard that while it’s still safe the beaches are not what they once were because of tourist. I use viator to book all of my excursions but if you are staying at an all inclusive they may provide excursions as part of your trip. Tell your girlfriends not to worry and have a good time. I felt more unsafe in Rome than I did Mexico. I was actually scared to death in Rome but thats another story.
Sorry dude to hear your were scared in Rome. Rome is one of the safest cities in Europe.
Been to Rome 3 times and walked the city both day and late night, without any issues.
Only thing I found was people were not that friendly, other than that we had a great time.
No matter where you go, always due your research before you go.
you are absolutely right. you could live in the safest neighborhood and you should still lock your doors at night and it’s no different when traveling. Don’t go looking for trouble, don’t go buying drugs, don’t sit your drink down and that’s across the board whether it’s in the states or internationally.
Well I get trouble from customs bringing Regulated drugs prescriptions after landing at customs. I’ll be bringing Adderall and she has sleep medication. I was told that the original bottle is sufficient with clear labeling. And how do you secure them in your motel room?
Make sure you put all of your medication in the safe along with any other valuables. Also, have copies of your prescription and keep the original label on the bottle.
I know this is quite after the fact for the person asking the question, but for future reference, I have traveled to the Cancun area twice and to Europe and to Canada. In all instances I never had anyone in customs look at, ask about, or raise an eyebrow about my medications. And I had a number of them, set up by day, so they weren’t in their original bottles. I did take a list that I printed from my pharmacy site that gave all the info regarding name, dosage and prescribing doctor. But, as I said, no one ever asked or looked. I don’t think our little minute amounts of meds concern them. They are more concerned with the multi million dollar quantities that people might be bringing one direction or the other.
exactly. I also took my medication with me and not one person suggested it was something illegal or even looked my way.
No place in Mexico, Latin America or the Caribbean is SAFE for gringos who are regarded fair game like deer hunting season ! Everything else you here is pure BS ! I have traveled and lived worldwide and visited Mexico several times since the 60’s and felt extremely nervous every time I ventured south of de border ! I have lived 11 years in Asia and NEVER a problem there ! Latin countries are corrupt from the top down that is the main problem, cops are on the take everywhere their morale is LOW ! Mexican politicians and officials are like the Sopranos!
Bottom line Mexico is absolutely NOT safe for anyone !
If you are as well traveled as you say you are then you should know Mexico is not as dangerous as the news the portrays. I wonder why only black and brown countries are considered dangerous. As I stated in the article I felt more afraid in Rome than Mexico. It seems like you are listening to the news vs actually experiencing the country and getting to know the locals. Your I am better than tone tells me exactly why you feel the way you do.
Why bring up “black and brown?” They do not like Americans and we are the great melting pot, so no color, just being American is enough. Afterall, are ‘we’ not trying to keep them from coming to our country, illegally? You are being naive but sincerely wish you great and safe travels.
I bring up black and brown because there is clearly a difference in the way the news portrays countries of black and brown people vs other countries. Rome was a nightmare for me and it has the same level 2 warning as Mexico but you dont see the media reporting how dangerous Rome or other countries that has the same level 2 warning
I wonder if you are just as passionate about the killing of unarmed black men in the states?
I went on an excursion through a cruise line in the Dominican Republic, which the cruise line strongly suggests using their excursions for safety. The lady who ran the tour insisted we go thru the town on the way back, the bus driver didn’t say much, but it was obvious he did not want to. It was wrong. Well, that would be a perfect example of how things could go wrong. I made a comment on the review online.
In that situation there isnt much you can do because the excursion is set up by a third party. I dont blame you for leaving a bad review because what if things had turned out differently. Glad you are safe
My boyfriend and I traveled to Cancun in February of 2018 and had something put in our drinks MY boyfriend ended up in the hospital with a large bill to pay and thought I was never going to get out Now afraid to travel there How do you get the feeling back to travel I have been going to Cancun since 1997 and just loved it
You have to look at it the same you would if you were at a bar in the states. Say you went to Nashville for the weekend and someone put something in your drink you wouldnt say I am never traveling anywhere else again. Things happen and we as travelers have to cautious no matter where we are traveling too. I dont care if I am in Texas or the Amalfi Coast I try to make sure I am very aware of my surroundings.
Going to Cancun for the first time. 4 of us including 2 children 9 and 6. Staying at the Marriott Cancun Resort, not AI, so we will be going around for food etc, even getting groceries for breakfast. At least that’s the plan. Now I see all this debate about Cancun and it’s a little scary. Any advice other than don’t do illegal things which are we don’t want plan on? We were hoping to just use the taxi to get around, get groceries, go to nearby restaurants (walk or taxi). Thinking of excursions as well. Should we use hotel concierge or book tours elsewhere? Any tips on appreciated. I can still cancel the trip but prefer not to. My wife is more than paranoid than me. Sometimes I that keeps us safe.
One more scary thing.. Kidnapping? Is this a frequent occurrence? My kids are normal in the sense they sometimes wander a few yards away from us. Is this a place we need to clutch on tight to the little ones in broad daylight? Sorry for being paranoid. Thanks for the info.
no worries Jason and I apologize for the late response as I was traveling. Kidnappings are far and few. The media would like for you to believe there are kidnappings everyday and that is just not the case. If you are at the beach in Hilton Head, SC you would keep an eye on your children.
are you staying at an all inclusive or renting an airbnb? I will help anyway I can to help relieve your fears. I was traveling but I will be home for the next few weeks to help you.
So basically if you want to go, proceed as if you were headed to war. I was raised in Cancun. I’ve been living here in the U.S. for almost 2 years now after I was extorted at my former business. They threatened to kill my wife and baby if I didn’t pay. Stay away form that shit hole.
you sound as if you have been watching too Fox News and the shit hole country theme. Mexico is safe and I am sure you eat a Mexican restaurant every Friday and drink margaritas every Tuesday. You enjoy the culture but don’t want to experience the culture and food first hand.
It’s really necessary for you article to say that “Mexico, Dominican Republic, Haiti and other countries where the majority of the population are black and brown people” ? I think that it’s racist.
it is absolutely necessary seeing that only countries where black and brown people come from are deemed dangerous. Mexico is not as dangerous as the media portrays. If you live in the US and you are not afraid to go to the grocery store you shouldnt be afraid to travel to Mexico.
Hello Tomiko,
Firstly, This is the one of the best blogs on Mexico that I have found that provides useful info on places to visit, “to-dos and not-to-dos” as well as objective and unbiased commentaries even in the face of challenging feedback. Much appreciated!!!
Planning on visiting and backpacking across Yucatan Peninsula..Cities/Areas that I’ll be visiting are as follows:-
Cancun- PDC- Tulum- coba – Ek Balam -valladolid- chichen itza -Merida – Campeche. All by ADO Bus Travel while staying at only AirBnB for each town/city.
Firstly, is it safe to travel via ADO buses across the Yucatan?
Secondly, Is it safe to do all AirBnB?…trying to maximize my travel budget.
Planning on visiting ifrom end of Nov – First few weeks in Dec
Morning Pete-
Thanks so much for the feedback and I really appreciate you! I have not stayed at an airbnb but my travel colleague whom I trust only stays at airbnb and she just returned from Mexico and Belize and she stayed in airbnb on both trips and she didn’t have any issues.
Buses do occasionally get held up and robbed. Traveling by day and on deluxe or 1st-class buses, which use toll highways where possible, minimizes this risk.
Keep me posted on your trip!
Thanks much for your quick response Tomiko! Have a great week!
More Americans Are Murdered in Mexico Than In All Other Foreign Countries Combined. That is why it is dangerous. Nobody should be trusting advice such as this: “If you live in the US and you are not afraid to go to the grocery store you shouldnt be afraid to travel to Mexico,” or the laughable “Nothing has happened to me,” and “It’s safer than Italy.” Look at the facts, look at the government warnings and crime rates, and decide how much risk you are willing to take. The level of risk is higher in Mexico, period. Can you be murdered anywhere? Of course. But are the odds higher in Mexico? Absolutely they are. It’s amazing what people are capable of telling themselves to put their mind at ease. If you are worried about a trip to Mexico, ask yourself why comments like “it’s just like your local grocery store,” from random people will help. Instead, learn the risks and decide how much risk you can accept. But risks vary, a lot, and so does people’s tolerance for risk depending on their personalities and life experience. Understand, don’t Deny.
I just returned from Mexico again this past sunday and I didnt stay on a resort. I walked around in the city, I ate with locals, I shopped and I had a great time. I am still here and noone bothered me and in fact it was one of the more peaceful trips I have been on. Have you been robbed or kidnapped in Mexico? are you just going off of the media?
We are thinking about flying into Leon and driving to San Miguel. Is that an OK area?
Jeff- Its approximately a 2 hour drive to San Miguel. I have actually taken the drive myself and I had a car service to pick me up from the airport and it was about $22/person. You can rent a car but You probably will not use a car in San Miguel unless you are staying far away from everything. Yes, it is safe to either rent a car or hire a driver
We are taking A cruise that is stopping in Cozumel and Progreso , We are traveling with 4blonde headed, blue eyes children 11,9,8,6 we have booked excursions, I am terrified after some of the things I have read on the internet (my own fault). Is this a trip I should be stressing this much about… Ive seen the “Taken” movies lol
Thank you very much!!! I was worried and I feel better about making plans to attend a concert there in Oct at the Foro Sol,
Hi All,
I lived in Mexico for the past four years splitting time between Mazatlan and San Carlos/Guaymas. Just now returning to the US. Tomiko has put together a good travel guide. The people of Mexico are friendly and if you treat others with respect it will go a long way toward your having a pleasant and safe time. The cartels want nothing to do with you so simply stay away from areas they are active in. If your guide or management at your hotel tell you to not go somewhere listen to them. Be in by 9 pm and NEVER drive at night. If you really look at most of the problems involving tourists alcohol or very bad decision making is involved. There are areas the Mexican nationals will tell you to avoid and do so. We had no problems. We did not live in a gated neighborhood. I will say that unfortunately the violence in Sonora (Guaymas/San Carlos) Area is something to be concerned about. As for Mazatlan, what a great city!! Super beaches, food and a great community. Do as Tomiko suggests and you should do just fine. Mexico is a beautiful country and worth the effort if you plan sensibly.
Thank you so much for commenting! I receive emails daily from readers who watch too much of the US media. Mexico is completely safe and there is no need to be afraid to travel to Mexico. I just returned from a solo trip to Cancun and felt completely safe.
Hello Tomiko,
So happy I stumble upon this useful site! I have been to Mexico twice,once to Puerto Vallarta and to Cancun,but me and my friend are headed to Playa Del Carmen in September-no major worries? Is it better for us to have cocktails at the hotel bars? Avoid mini-bars in our rooms?
Thank you,
Marty
I just returned from Mexico and I while I didnt drink from the mini bar it wasnt because I was afraid. I went to the grocery store and purchased beer and wine because it was cheaper. I am all about saying money so I dont use the mini because of the mark up not because I’m afraid something will happen. Stop by the local grocery store grab a 2 6 six packs and a bottle of wine for half the price.
You have to be out of your mind or, more likely, paid to write this. Mexico is extremely dangerous. For example, murders in Playa del Carmen are up by 200% this year, and many executions and armed robberies happen in the tourist zone, which is an area of about only 4 square miles. There have been bombings, arson, executioners chasing targets through the streets, AK-47s shot on streets, dismembered bodies left in bags, executions of police and high level authorities, schools targeted, etc. etc. Recently the official in charge of extraditing criminal fugitives was executed, which tells you that criminal fugitives are making their home there. Two tourists were recently kidnapped at a nightclub in Cancun, one was murdered and fed to crocodiles, backing up countless stories posted online of being threatened to buy drugs in nightclubs. And then there’s the smaller crimes, like every single time I’ve gone to Mexico my credit card has been stolen. Right now there’s also an issue in the Yucatan with toxic algae called sargassum that carries deadly heavy metals and releases a dangerous gas. The west coast also has famous violence problems (American family recently shot there) and sewage issues, Sayulita is famous for giving tourists norovirus and Acupulco has five beaches with the highest level of fecal contamination. The common advice that you’ll be fine if you don’t do drugs or go out at night is a myth, more murders are happening in the day and drugs are not found at the scene. Comparisons to American cities are ridiculous, for example Chicago’s murder rate is far lower than PDC, and most people don’t pay thousands of dollars to vacation in Chicago. Oh, and if you get murdered there, the Mexican cops will try to humiliate and blame you, ex. the American man on a group trip in PDC who was robbed and murdered last year was falsely reported by the Mexican press to be a drug addict having public sex with a transsexual, all lies to make tourist think well that would never happen to me – it can definitely happen to you, and the chances are going up every day. This blog is mindblowingly irresponsible
I was not paid by the Mexican Tourism board to write this article. I have traveled to Mexico and just returned from traveling to Cancun solo in March. You must work for the Trump administration if you believe Mexico is dangerous. I would not put my life in danger and travel to a country where I could be killed. I live in Tennessee and Memphis has one of the highest murder rates per capita but it doesn’t stop me from going to the grocery store, work, bank. You know why I dont encounter issues at home and abroad? I stay out of areas that are dangerous. Use your common sense and you will be fine. Rome has the same travel warning as Mexico but you dont hear people saying stay out of Rome. your backwards thinking mindset is mind blowingly irresponsible. #DOBetter
Smart cookie
This Author is so uninformed its astonishing! Mexico is one of the top 3 most dangerous country’s in the world!!! My brother was murdered there 11/9/18. He was visiting from California and was in a resort area and was stabbed to death. Taylor Meyer. The government tried to cover up the murder to prevent bad public relations for the country and the playa del carmen area. They made 1 arrest yet 3 people murdered Taylor in Playa Del Carmen. Contrary to this article and any liberal crap you’re hearing. Mexico is killing american tourists left and right and very few media publications talk about it. DO NOT TRAVEL TO MEXICO IT IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS! The state department has mexico ranked as a level 2 the same as Antarctica!! This is how you know it’s corrupt!!! People are being decapitated and murdered- over 30,000 last year alone 1 of those being my brother Taylor. And you’re going to tell me Mexico is as safe as Antarctica? I would like to publicly challenge this author to any debate in regard to the dangers of mexico and how insane it is to travel there. DO NOT GO TO MEXICO!!!!!!!!!! IT IS NOT SAFE!!!!!!
I am so sorry for your loss and I know how that feels because I lost my brother 5 years ago next week. I suggest you do a little more research and not take the media at face value. New Orleans is one my favorite cities in the states but the FBI reports the murder rate of New Orleans has declined but it is still nearly 4 times higher than all of Mexico and over 5 times higher than Mexico City. New Orleans is still an amazing place to visit and the Media is right to champion this inspirational city. But Mexico is at least as remarkable and there is a clear difference in how each of these storied destinations is portrayed in contemporary news.
Every city and country has places that are safe and dangerous. Mexico is no exception. The areas that are dangerous should be avoided. And those that are safe should be enjoyed and celebrated. I just returned from Mexico on a solo trip and I survived and I felt completely safe.
Dear Colby,
So sorry to hear about your loss. In spite of your loss, you are misinformed about Mexico. There are dangerous areas in Mexico, as in any country. Most of the violence, however, is drug related. Part of the problem is the enormous market for illegal drugs here in the States. As a few other Western countries have done, we need to legalize drugs and take away much if the profit motive for the cartels. Remember that there are over 120 million Mexicans. When you compare the number of murders to the entire population, it is still a tiiny fraction. Just as no one should be afraid to visit the States because of our mass shootings, you should not be afraid to visit Mexico, providing you stay in the recommended areas and do no look for trouble.
Personally, as someone who lives in San Diego across the border from Tijuana, my wife and I visit Mexico often and vacation in various areas throughout Mexico. Check out Zihautanejo. It is a delightful and friendly fishing town with a resort town, Ixtapa, just 15 minutes away (if you like resorts). Zihua will change your mind about the dangers of Mexico.
In short, don’t go looking for trouble and the probability is very high you won’t find it.
Respectfully,
Frank Paiano
you must have misunderstood my article because I am quite clear that my experience with Mexico has been nothing but safe and wonderful. I agree with you that if you dont go looking for trouble you wont find it. I love Mexico, the people, the culture and the food! you have a fan of Mexico here and I just returned from a solo trip to Mexico and enjoyed every minute.
Got that right pal
Mexico is the undisputed murder/rape/kidnapping capitol of the world. I would dare you to hitchhike across Mexico to prove your point, but you would be dead.
When was the last time you visited Mexico? I dare you hitchhike through Chicago to Memphis to prove your point.
Exactly
WOW! I can only tell you what I have experienced. As a white male travelling alone to the bakery I was profiled by Puerto Penasco police. Red lighted by cops for a “courtesy check.” The courtesy check was a ruse to search me and my vehicle. Had to give them all the cashll in my pocket and truck in order not to be taken to jail. We have a time share in cabo, been going to Mexico for years.
No more Mexico for me and my family. Too easy for the cops to set you up for arrest. You have been warned. BEWARE!!!
I am sure if you were pulled over they had a reason because the police does not pull people over no reason at all. It’s ok for black men to be treated this way in the states yet you get up and go to work everyday and dont think twice about it but when you are on the other end of the mistreatment you take issue with it. Sir, that is called privilege
Other countries are now giving travel warnings about coming to America due to all the violence in the past few years and especially recently.
Thus other countries should. We are so quick to point the finger at other countries but not at ourselves.
I will be traveling to Piedras Negras at the end of this month. I plan on walking across and staying for the 3 days to do some shopping. Like all Americans, I am a little hesitant. All my family and friends warn against it. They say the kidnapping for ransom rate is high. I’ve done some research and I am not finding anything credible that states so. What do you think? What advice can you give me?
You are walking from where to where? I dont suggest walking anywhere maybe catch a bus or hire a driver. why are you walking?
I am traveling to RIU Palace Peninsula all-inclusive in September 2019. Is this resort safe? Can I trust the water and food at the resort, or should I purchase bottled water?
Can you please post the date and time and location of when president Trump said it is not safe to take a vacation in Mexico because of brown or black people. Can you please reference your opinion!
The person who wrote this article obviously didn’t talk to the yard parents of the guy on a motorcycle who was traveling through Mexico and ended up and let go few hundred pieces or the families of the other dead bodies in advance found outsiders the tourist resorts perfectly safe Mexico and all you have to worry about is the drug cartel and of course the bloodthirsty gangs other than that your trip should be a piece of cake go ahead I feel safer walking down the streets of Detroit at night alone unarmed
If you believe this person your either an idiot or high on drugs
YES do your research you’ll find that Mexico is the LAST please
you want to be in if you VALUE your life
It is not safe, don’t go if you don’t need to.
I am sure Mexico will miss you dearly
My name is Pamela and I am of Mexican Canadian descent. I used to live in California in San Diego.I have lived in the Guadalajara metropolitan area specifically in Zapopan for more than a decade now and let me tell you something: all this garbage of Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta being supposedly level three traveling warning or wherever stupid United States based ridiculous rating is just pure baloney any large city in the USA is way more dangerous than the Guadalajara Metropolitan area especially Zapopan where I live. And Puerto Vallarta is gazillions times safer than any large city in the United States. I am so tired of the garbage lying prejudiced stupid Mass corporate media from the United States always dilapidating Mexico with no empirical and factual evidence whatsoever just bias and prejudice.
Also who is responsible for the very existence of those disgusting abhorrent criminal cartels in Mexico?
I have news for you the goddamn United States is the sole responsible for this mess why?
Because the United States is the only country selling all kinds of weapons to Mexico there’s no other country including Mexico itself providing weapons to those disgusting cartels.
United States, stop your stupid manufacturing and selling of criminally used weaponry in your own country and do control all the black market under the table massive selling of weapons to Mexican criminals because behind a Mexican criminal buying weapons there is always an American criminal selling it to them so don’t play innocent bystander don’t be so hypocrite and nasty and once and for all start having real gun control laws just like the rest of the world has. No other country on the planet sells weapons like candy like yours does.
On another important note you complain about the border, illegal immigration and so called unwanted immigrants from Mexico?
I have another question for you: who stole 55% of the Mexican territory in the middle of the 19th century? Where should the border be placed actually? Thousands of miles north of where it is.
The United States is a thief country a hypocrite country that should and does not have any right to call people they stole their territory from Invaders when it is the other way around United States invaded Mexico illegally created a made-up war to steal more than half of its territory and you have the nerve criticizing Mexicans us Invaders you should just shut the hell up!
We Mexicans are tired of your abuse you’re going to criticize this country don’t freaking come here ever! We don’t need you! Stay the heck away from here! No other country on the planet including Spain has done more damage to Mexico than the USA.
We don’t need your disgusting stupid opinion on whether or not it is safe or not safe here when you are the ones responsible for making it them safe regarding drug trafficking and you are the ones who stole more than half of our territory to place an illegal border and then you call us Invaders? Screw you million times screw you infinity don’t come here if you’re going to criticize us, stay away!!!
Pamela-
Did you read my article? I agree with you and I didnt say Mexico was not safe in fact just the opposite. I stated very clearly the US Media is responsible for this narrative and the video at the bottom of the article was me in Mexico last month and me stating Mexico is extremely safe and I was there traveling solo.
What an idiotic comment, Trump has never said those words or even implied then. Your liberalism is showing and your fake news BS is just that, BS. Why can’t you be truthful in dealing with beautiful and leave politics and fake news to the real media.
I am sure you spend your days reguritating Fox news so enjoy your trailer park.
First of all: I’m Mexican.
Don’t confuse “Is Mexico safe?” with “Is Mexico safe for TOURISTS in TOURISTIC zones?”
Mexico is NOT safe… For Mexicans. It’s not “isolated areas”. More than 30,000 kills a year. I am afraid of hanging out. I have know people that have beeb kidnapped and I don’t dare to tell you the horrors they’ve told me. I knew people that never came back. I know what it feels to feel the point of a gun on your head. And before you say that I’m a narco. I have never done drugs and I have a PhD. It’s just that, eventually, you end up in the middle of a shooting or someone robs you in the street. I know the terror it feels to know someone tried to kidnap your nephews. So cut the crap of that violence in Mexico is a myth, please.
Is it safe for tourists? YES! 1) Don’t compare staying in Mexico for 2 weeks versus living here a whole life. Just do the math of chances. 2) Organized crime don’t like to mess with tourists, because the foreing country will demand a clarification and Mexican government, who is involved with the crime), will need to do something, and that’s like shooting to oneself’s foot. The few crimes that happens to tourists are most of the time related not to organized crime, but to petty criminals. 3) Touristic places are well guarded. There is police protecting visitors. The same police wouldn’t doubt in kidnapping a Mexican, but never a tourist. In that case, the order is clear: protect them. 4) Península Maya is more American than Mexican, the owners of hotels and restaurants are foreigners, and Mexican government always protects foreign investors. Don’t compare at all staying in the golden zones of the Mayan coast (where most Mexican can’t even dream of even going) with going to the real Mexico.
YES, if you go to Cancun, you’ll be safe.
NO, you don’t know Mexico.
I have traveled all over Mexico with friends, family, and solo. Not just on the resorts because thats not the kind of traveler I am but the people of Mexico have been nothing but kind and friendly. Do you spend this kind of energy warning people about the U.S. and the dangers of being black or latino traveling to the states. Use that same energy to condemn traveling to the U.S.
Excellent, informative article Tomiko. I read through the article and then the comments. I think about 30% of the comments are slandering Mexico and supporting Trump. That’s the equivalent of his support base. The collective IQ of which is reported to be quite low, uneducated and generally very unhappy. I would pay them no mind. I think MAGA gave them hope that someone, somewhere could be worse off than themselves and there’s an orange orangutan making sure of it.
Fortunately for the rest of us, they won’t travel beyond the trailer park. Instead, they’ll bash Mexico from the sidelines waiting for the wall and will continue on with their angry lives and penny bank accounts – mad at every Mexican with a nickle. I beg them to keep their low self-esteem bodies at home watching the Fox News coverage of innocent Americans gunned down en mass while attending church, shopping at Walmart, the movies. the mall, a garlic festival, a concert, or just an average day at school.
Meanwhile, us happy, abundant, lovin’-life, readers will enjoy our southern neighbor and all its colorful radiant culture, cuisine, delicious views and history. We are currently looking for a second home and a reprieve from the winter months. A wonderful commentator mentioned Manzanillo. That’s one place we have not considered and I’ve already begun my research. It would be wonderful to find a blog of expats who regularly contribute and live in Mexico.
Please keep up the wonderful blog! You are educating, enlightening, and on-purpose. Love it. Thank you.
Thank you so much! It so refreshing to have someone comment that is not from #45 Base. It is really sad that probably half of the people commenting have not even been to Mexico but yet they are reguratating Fox news talking points. I have traveled to Mexico alone, with my bff, my husband and I am taking my daughter next year. I have explored off of the resort and I have never experienced anything but love from the people of Mexico.
Although this warning appears to be focused around gang and drug violence, this August advisory included Cancun and Los Cabos, two of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.
I am traveling to LeBlanc in March 2020 and The Grand Moon Palace in Summer 2021. Do you have any wisdom about these two locations? I would like to do a couple of excursions as well which would take us off the resort but traveling with the resort tour guides. Should I be concerned? Thank you!
Let me do a little research. I am not familiar with Grand Moon Palace. Give me a few days to research this resort.
Hahaha! I hate preachy books too. I just skimmed through the preachy bits in Jane Eyre and little women or I would have still been reading the latter. I’m about 4 chapters away from finishing J.E
I got robbed by the POLICE in Roma Norte in Mexico City. My friend wasn’t wearing a mask – so they demanded a fine from both of us. 4,800 pesos and jail until we saw a judge or we could pay them 3,000 pesos right there to take care of it. They frisked us – constantly asked if we had drugs on us (the most exciting thing I had was dental floss). We hesitated until they got the handcuffs out. FYI there’s no fine for not wearing a mask – and even though it wasn’t terribly expensive the experience of being shaken down by the POLICE will keep me from returning to CDMX. I have to imagine dirty cops would take us to a dirty police station.
I am so sorry to hear that happened to you. While I have never been a victim of a crime in Mexico I have been the victim of one several times in the states and that does not stop me from going out.
DO NOT VISIT ENSENADA in 2022, Crime is out of control. Our Police rarely catch criminals. the police are the root of corruption here. They keep asking for Bribes / extortion of cash from us at traffic violation stops and they fail to post the fines; they can charge us whatever they want. They are real Pigs in a uniform. President Obrador has not helped. The troops they sent here are useless; they just drive around here looking ready for war in Afghanistan. The city Council and Mayor will not address this issue of grassroots corruption. As citizens, we cannot trust our police; its been decades of corruption, no one stops this. No one! Get it? Murders are up and robberies of tourists and their vehicles. Violence is used. Killings are daily by local Meth users, which is widely distributed to people in Baja. They just love drinking lots of booze, killing others as they race downs the hill from the La Bufadora , no police patrols; this is the Macho way of life for our ignorant Male citizens. We have many working in city offices and as contractors for the road department. Public work projects are often delayed because they fail at securing the resources needed to complete the projects; the contractors steal the money and run! At lease they share a small amount with the police and city officials/inept employees. It helps a bit of the local economy. So hurry, come and visit us soon. We love your $$$$$$ money.
Mexico is a dangerous country mainly because of the corrupted government. I was traveling solo in Palenque on my way to Guatemala. My tourist visa had expired 3 days ago so I was trying to exit the country as soon as possible. On the coach the police checked my documents and saw my form had expired, they told me they had to arrest me. I’m from the UK and i’d only asked 30 days at the border as I didn’t want to stay longer. In all I was in jail for 9 hours, they wanted to keep me overnight but I was very scared being a young female traveler. I lied and said I was feeling ill and to take me to hospital, that my friends were would be worried as they were in a nearby city. I didn’t want them to know I was alone. Finally they let me out. The whole time they didn’t give me the emergency number for my embassy and they let me call the embassy at 5pm when it was closed. i got arrested at 9am. I honestly believe they wanted to sell me to human traffickers
If you know you are going to Mexico or any country for that matter you need to have your documents in order. I am not saying what you experienced is not correct but where is personal responsibility? why are you traveling and your documents are expired. This has nothing to do with Mexico because any country will check your documents but more about you deciding it would take too long or you didnt feel like renewing your documents and mad because you got into trouble.
Thank you for the good tips. This is such a greet inform for us. thank your sharing
I recently had the opportunity to travel to Mexico, and I must say that it was a truly wonderful experience. While there are concerns about safety in certain areas, I found that by taking proper precautions and being mindful of my surroundings, I felt secure throughout my trip.
I visited Cancun, a popular tourist destination, and I was amazed by the beauty of its beaches and the vibrant atmosphere. The local people were incredibly welcoming and friendly, always ready to share their culture and traditions.
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Hi!
We want to vist Cancun and we will be going directly from airport to the resort (Moon Palace Cancun) this Christmas, do you think we are safe in that area?
I think you will be find if you stay on the resort. I know this sounds common sense but please do not try to buy weed or anything like that from locals.
you will be surprised how many people go over there trying to purchase weed and then cry wolf.