Is Puerto Vallarta Safe for Travel in 2024?
Are you planning a trip to Mexico in 2024? As a popular tourist destination, many people may be concerned about this country’s safety.
However, with the correct information and precautions, Mexico can be a wonderful and safe place to visit. In particular, the coastal city of Puerto Vallarta is a top destination for tourists, but is Puerto Vallarta safe for travel in 2024?
We will discuss the latest Mexico travel advisory and provide tips on how to stay safe while enjoying all that this beautiful city has to offer.
So, let’s address the question on everyone’s mind: is Mexico safe, and specifically, is Puerto Vallarta safe for tourists? Keep reading to find out.
We’ll also cover how to stay safe in both places so you can enjoy your holiday or vacation with peace of mind.
Situated on Mexico’s Pacific coast in Jalisco state, Puerto Vallarta is surrounded by the clear waters of Bahía de Banderas (Banderas Bay), lush forests, and the ridges of the Sierra Madre.
Despite its scenic views, the city has maintained its authenticity and is one of the most popular beach destinations
Walk down the cobbled and narrow streets, and you’ll find yourself in some of Puerto Vallarta’s most traditional areas, including the Romantic Zone, known for its lively atmosphere and range of art galleries, traditional markets, and eateries.
This guide on Puerto Vallarta safety will provide you with the facts you need to decide is Puerto Vallarta safe.
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I will point you in the right direction, and you can decide if Puerto Vallarta’s crime rate is high enough for you not to visit this beautiful resort town.
I will also discuss Puerto Vallarta safety & Puerto Vallarta Travel Advisory.
- Is Puerto Vallarta safer than Cancun?
- Is Puerto Vallarta safe at night?
- Is Puerto Vallarta Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
- Is Mexico safe overall?
Is Puerto Vallarta Safe for Tourists in 2024?
Puerto Vallarta is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. The city has implemented various security measures, and local authorities prioritize the safety of residents and visitors.
Violent crime, petty theft, and petty crime are soaring in certain areas because American tourists are buying drugs from Mexican drug dealers.
The city borders the state of Nayarit, which is home to sister destination Nuevo Vallarta on the Riviera Nayarit, sharing the same international airport on the edge of Puerto Vallarta.
Because Puerto Vallarta is part of Mexico, it has a negative connotation of being unsafe, which is further from the truth. As you will see below, there are other countries with the same travel warning as Mexico, and they are not perceived as dangerous.
Puerto Vallarta Travel Restrictions for 2024
Updated Security Alert – Quintana Roo & Puerto Vallarta Advisory (08/22/2024)
Make sure to check the Mexico Travel Advisory page of the U.S. State Department to check for the latest news and travel safety information, as it changes frequently. According to their latest travel advisory, Mexico is considered:
Level 3: Reconsider Travel
The crime and violence rates referenced in the travel advisory are for broad regions while the incidence of this activity tends to be highly concentrated in areas which are not frequented by travelers. Visitors who use common sense and travel in areas frequented by other tourists are safe and have enjoyable visits.
Additionally, it advises against traveling to certain areas, especially those located outside of the main tourist zones.
It is important to stay informed about any recent safety concerns and follow local authorities’ advice.
It is also recommended to check the latest Mexico Travel Warning, which provides information on the overall safety situation in Mexico.
By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Puerto Vallarta.
Aside from dangerous areas along the U.S. border and other regions where cartels operate, Mexico is safe, and I firmly believe it is safe to travel to Mexico, including Puerto Vallarta.
In general, if you’re not taking part in illegal activities, you don’t have anything to worry about.
For example, Four Americans traveling from South Carolina to Mexico were ambushed in the small town of Matamoros in what is believed to be a case of mistaken identity.
While this did not happen in Puerto Vallarta, it has still caused travelers to be concerned about traveling to any part of Mexico.
One of them – a mother of six – was traveling to Mexico to “undergo a medical procedure” across the border.
Who travels with 4 men to get a tummy tuck and expects them to provide aftercare service? Half of these men don’t even wash their hands properly, so we knew she was lying.
Once across the border, they were fired upon by unidentified gunmen, “placed in a vehicle and taken from the scene by armed men,” according to the FBI.
Investigators believe the Americans were targeted by a Mexican cartel that likely mistook them for Haitian drug smugglers, but I personally believe they were looking to purchase drugs.
For years, Matamoros has been a stronghold for various feuding criminal organizations, particularly the Gulf Cartel, which has used the city as a key pipeline for moving cocaine, meth, and fentanyl across the border into Texas — and from there across the U.S.
No one should be traveling through Matamoros under any circumstances. A quick Google search would have told them it was a no-no to travel through Matamoros.
What do you think is going to happen if you go to a Foreign country seeking to buy drugs and then get on the news and play the victim when something bad happens?
To put things in perspective, Level 3 is the same tier given to many other tourist hotspots that have an uptake in criminal activity, including the following countries:
I have been to both Belize and Italy, and I have never wondered if it is safe to travel to those countries. Are you concerned about traveling to Italy?
Italy has the same level 3 warning, so why is Mexico considered more violent, and why are you asking if Puerto Vallarta is safe?
Is Puerto Vallarta Safer than Cancun
Choosing between Puerto Vallarta and Cancun depends on your preferences and priorities.
In terms of safety, both destinations generally cater to tourists and are considered safe. However, the safety situation can change, so staying updated with the latest Mexico travel advisory is crucial before booking your flight.
Puerto Vallarta offers a more laid-back, traditional Mexican experience with its charming old town and vibrant arts scene.
Cancun, on the other hand, is known as the Spring Break and party capital.
Puerto Vallarta might be your pick if you’re seeking a relaxing beach getaway with a touch of cultural charm.
If you’re looking to party all night and twerking on the beach, Cancun could be what you are looking for. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal preferences and interests.
When comparing crime statistics between Puerto Vallarta and Cancun, it is vital to note that they both have seen increased violence in recent years.
However, it is crucial to understand that crime can occur anywhere and is often isolated to specific areas.
While Puerto Vallarta has less crime, you should stay aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure.
Overall, while both Puerto Vallarta and Cancun have taken measures to ensure the safety of their tourists, it is important to exercise caution and stay informed about any recent safety concerns before your trip.
Puerto Vallarta Safety vs. the U.S. Safety
Mexico is statistically much safer than the United States.
So why is the U.S. State Dept. sending out Travel Alerts, calling Mexico “A Failed State”, and saying that ALL parts of the country (including popular tourist resorts like Puerto Vallarta and Cancun) are now unsafe for travel?
There has been a lot of news coverage about violence in Mexico. But very little of it notes that Mexico is a HUGE country with thirty-one states (+ the Distrito Federal).
They also fail to mention that most of that violence is drug traffic-related or that you could count the number of tourists who are affected by it on one hand.
Did you know that, according to the FBI, an estimated 15,241 persons were murdered in the U.S. in 2009 111 U.S. citizens were killed in Mexico last year, and almost all of them were involved in illicit drug trafficking, gun-running, or smuggling people across the border to/from the U.S?
Imagine 111 people out of the nearly 8 million visitors (about 1 million of whom make Mexico their full-time home). Do you know who else had 111 murders in one year?
Well, Boston, for starters. Then there was Las Vegas. And Orlando. And Indianapolis. Is the State Dept. advising tourists to stay away from those places?
Meanwhile, nearly 1,000 U.S. citizens died in Puerto Rico, but did anybody raise a red flag about that? The State Department can’t issue a Travel Warning because it is not a foreign country
How big is your own city when compared to Mexico? Here are the annual numbers of MURDERS, given by MSA (or Metropolitan Statistical Area)
- Atlanta – 325
- Baltimore – 298
- Boston – 111
- Dallas/Ft. Worth – 310
- Detroit – 447
- Houston – 462
- Indianapolis – 111
- Jacksonville, FL – 120
- Kansas City – 163
To put things in perspective, consider that the murder rate in Mexico’s Yucatan State is 2 per 100,000.
That is about the same as Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Or Evansville, Indiana. Mexico City’s murder rate is 8 per 100,000, despite being the second-largest city on the planet. That is on par with Albuquerque.
Cartel & Drugh Violence
Mexico has strict laws against drug possession and trafficking, and the consequences of getting involved with illegal drugs can be severe.
The drug trade in Mexico has been linked to organized crime and cartels, which have caused significant violence and instability in some areas of the country.
By purchasing illegal drugs, individuals inadvertently contribute to the financial resources of these criminal organizations, which can perpetuate violence and harm local communities.
To emphasize, drug possession is strictly illegal in Mexico. If someone approaches you, whether on the beach or the street and offers to sell drugs, it’s essential to firmly decline.
Additionally, it’s crucial to be aware that if you get caught with drugs, you can face lengthy detention in Mexican prisons before their legal cases are resolved.
If you decide to visit Puerto Vallarta, expect to have a safe and relaxing vacation, free from any security
Puerto Vallarta Crime Rate
While Mexico has a reputation for high levels of violence and crime the excellent news is that Puerto Vallarta is a relatively safe destination compared to many other Mexican cities.
The city has seen a decrease in crime rates in recent years, with a decrease of 50% in homicides between 2018 and 2019.
While there have been isolated incidents of violent crime in Puerto Vallarta, they have mainly involved criminal groups and have not been targeted towards tourists or visitors.
Most crimes in the city are related to petty theft and are preventable by taking common-sense precautions.
While Puerto Vallarta has experienced some crime, it is not as rampant as some might fear.
The city is a popular tourist destination and is well-equipped to provide visitors a safe and enjoyable experience.
By taking some basic safety measures, you can feel secure and make the most of your vacation.
Is it Safe to Cruise to Puerto Vallarta?
Puerto Vallarta is one of the many stops for cruise ships. If you are planning to go on a cruise and Puerto Vallarta is one of your stops, safety is likely a top concern for you and your family.
The good news is that the safety level in Puerto Vallarta is relatively high. As a result, it is generally safe to cruise to Puerto Vallarta.
Cruise ships usually dock in a well-monitored area of the city, and the authorities keep an eye on everything that happens there.
Most cruise passengers feel comfortable exploring the city on their own or taking a shore excursion offered by the cruise line.
These shore excursions provide a range of fun and safe activities in Puerto Vallarta. Some popular options include guided city tours, beach trips, and zip-lining adventures.
Just simply be aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas or areas with low visibility. Additionally, be wary of pickpockets and keep an eye on your belongings.
Overall, Puerto Vallarta is a safe destination for cruise passengers.
Is It Safe To Drink the Tap Water in Puerto Vallarta
While Puerto Vallarta has a modern water treatment plant that provides clean water to the city, drinking tap water is not recommended.
As a precautionary measure, it is recommended that visitors should only drink bottled water or water that has been boiled or purified.
Most hotels and restaurants in Puerto Vallarta serve bottled water, which is widely available in grocery stores and supermarkets.
I also recommended avoiding adding ice cubes to your drinks if you are unsure if the water used to make them is safe. It’s better to be cautious and drink bottled water instead.
In addition to drinking water, I also suggest brushing your teeth with bottled water and avoiding swallowing any tap water while showering.
Is Puerto Vallarta Safe for Solo Female Travelers
If you are a solo traveler looking for a safe destination to explore, Puerto Vallarta is an amazing coastal city with no shortage of activities to keep you entertained.
From unique places to snorkel to day trips to quaint towns around the area, to tequila tasting, shopping, and everything in between.
You will have plenty to keep you busy and be surrounded by so many friendly people that you will not even notice you traveling alone.
I’ve traveled to Mexico solo countless times, and I’ve never experienced any violence or felt like my safety was in jeopardy.
Here are some of my tips on how to stay safe as a solo female traveler in Puerto Vallarta:
1. Stay in well-lit areas at night: It’s best to avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Stick to busy streets or take a taxi instead.
2. Dress conservatively: Generally, it’s best to dress modestly while traveling in Mexico. Avoid wearing revealing clothing or flashy jewelry that may attract unwanted attention.
3. Avoid walking alone on the beach: While the beaches in Puerto Vallarta are beautiful, walking alone on the beach at night is not recommended. Stick to the more populated areas during the evening.
4. Use common sense: As with any destination, use your instincts and common sense. Don’t accept drinks from strangers, and be wary of overly friendly locals.
Don’t let fear stop you from experiencing all the amazing sights and activities Puerto Vallarta offers!
Is Puerto Vallarta Safe for Black People
Puerto Vallarta is a safe and welcoming place for Black travelers. While there may be occasional incidents of racism or discrimination, these are rare and not reflective of the overall attitude towards Black people in the city.
I have never experienced racism in Mexico.
Puerto Vallarta has a growing and vibrant ex-pat community, which includes Black Americans and other Black travelers who have chosen to make Puerto Vallarta home.
If you are a Black traveler planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta, exercising caution and common sense is always a good idea, just as you would in any unfamiliar city.
How to Deal with Police Extortion in Puerto Vallarta
There is even a special force of male and female “Tourist Police”. They are recognizable by their uniforms of white shirts, shorts, and blue caps or sometimes with a Policia Municipal in a blue uniform.
The members of this force all speak English, so if you need any help, even just directions, they are there to serve you. Note they keep changing uniforms, but the labels are the same – “Policía Turística.”
Let’s discuss the elephant in the room.
We’ve all heard the stories about the corrupt cops south of the border. With stories ranging from extortion to kidnapping, the police in Mexico and the rest of Latin America do not have the best reputation.
Police extortion of tourists detained for minor offenses is often a problem, and there have been some grotesque incidents.
However, the authorities cracked down hard and dismissed hundreds of officers, including some top officials. They claim the problem is under control.
If you are stopped for a traffic violation in Mexico, you will be asked for your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. You will also be told what you did wrong.
Of course, in the U.S. we would then be issued a ticket requiring us to pay a fine or appear in court later.
If it is a minor infraction, don’t bribe them; even so, they may ask for some money; the amount depends on the seriousness of the infraction; if you pass a red light, it is better if they only give you the traffic ticket.
If you drive without a license, the car must be impounded, and the fine is higher; in that case, I suggest you offer 200 pesos (if you look Mexican), if you are blond with blue eyes, maybe about 500 pesos.
If you are stopped because you were drunk in the street, the fine is 1500 pesos or 24 hours of jail; you will probably have to pay your total fine.
Those are the most common crimes a police officer can pull you over;, if you steal or kill, the amount will be considerably higher.
The key is to remain calm and accept your mistake, and when it is inevitable that they take you to jail and then subtly offer a bribe, it is like a negotiation: start with a low amount, and they will go up to agree on an amount.
The strategy you Should NOT use to Deal with Corrupt Mexican Police
Don’t be a tough guy
This is the worst thing that you can do. If you act tough and get angry and make threats, the officer will simply arrest you for being disorderly or assaulting him or her, etc.
This is a very big no-no. Towing your car is technically something that the officer can’t do, even though they will threaten it, but if you give them enough of a desire to cause you harm, they will find a way to make it happen.
While most officers will not do anything illegal beyond soliciting bribes for traffic violations, they can act above the law when they want to.
Don’t give them a reason to want to, because you will not win. Having your car towed (and potentially never seeing it again) is much more expensive than paying him one hundred bucks.
Safest Neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is home to over 300,000 residents who live full-time in this seaside paradise. Like the Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta offers an array of neighborhoods to live in.
Each one has its own characteristics and charm, and there are five main neighborhoods that are safe in Puerto Vallarta.
- El Centro – Locally known as El Centro, Puerto Vallarta downtown is probably one of the most popular areas for tourists and locals.
- 5 de Diciembre -Nestled between El Centro and the Hotel Zone, you will find a neighborhood called 5 de Diciembre. This place is quieter than downtown but close enough to keep you in the hustle and bustle when you need to.
- Zona Romantica – The Zona Romantica, or Romantic Zone, is a place that combines luxury, beauty, heritage, delicious gastronomy, and authentic Mexican culture. Here you will find more boutique hotels, restaurants, and shops versus resorts and larger hotel chains.
- Marina Vallarta -Perhaps the fanciest city in town, Marina Vallarta is where the cruise ships dock. It is a posh area and developed for boat lovers. It features one of the best golf courses in the world and is home to large supermarket chains like Walmart.
- Fluvial Vallarta – This area is an up-and-coming neighborhood for tourists and new ex-pats. While it is still developing, it already promises chain restaurants and stores such as Costco, Starbucks, and big movie theaters.
Safety Tips for Getting Around Puerto Vallarta
Renting a car and catching an Uber in Puerto Vallarta offer distinct transportation options for visitors.
If you are anything like me you prefer to be on your own time and renting a car provides flexibility and the freedom to explore the city and its surrounding areas at your own pace.
It’s convenient for day trips to nearby attractions or for those who prefer the independence of having their vehicle.
However, it’s important to be aware of local traffic rules and parking conditions.
On the other hand, catching an Uber is a convenient and often more affordable alternative for getting around the city.
It’s a straightforward way to navigate Puerto Vallarta without worrying about haggling with taxi drivers, and it’s typically considered safe.
Just keep in mind that Uber may not be available in all areas, especially if you’re traveling outside the city center.
Additionally, it’s always a good practice to double-check the app for the latest information on availability and pricing, especially during peak travel times.
Ultimately, whether you choose to rent a car or use Uber, both options offer convenience and ease of travel, allowing you to make the most of your stay in Puerto Vallarta.
20 Tips to Stay Safe in Puerto Vallarta
Although a Puerto Vallarta travel advisory is in effect, it’s important to remember that tourists flock to Mexico every year without incident.
Puerto Vallarta safety is high on the Mexican government’s crime initiative because it’s imperative to keep tourists safe in order to preserve our tourist dollars but you must also do your part when traveling to Mexico.
Traveling anywhere requires a little bit of safety precaution. So, remember to enlist these general rules during your vacation and you will not have to continually ask is it safe to travel to Puerto Vallarta.
Here are some precautions that you can take in order to make sure your trip goes as planned and check out my must-have items to stay in Mexico.
- Keep Your Nose Clean: As mentioned above, much of the criminal activity in Mexico revolves around the drug trade and sex trade. Although many Americans go south of the border to have a little fun remember the last thing you want is to end up in a Mexican Jail.
- When Driving, Stick to Main Roads, and Daytime Travel: One of the most popular methods to extort money and protect cartel turf is through carjacks or roadblock ambushes. Avoid back roads and nighttime driving and hire taxis and driving services through the hotel where you’re staying.
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date about safety news through a few methods. First of all, talk with your travel agent and/or hotel concierge about safety updates, and where to go. They’ll have the most current read on the situation. As an American Citizen, you should also consider signing up for STEP, the Department of State’s Safe Traveler Enrollment Program. This will sign you up for travel alerts, put you on the consulate and Embassy radar, and make it easier to work things out if there’s an incident.
- Leave a copy of your passport and itinerary with someone at home.
- Keep your valuables locked up when you leave the hotel.
- Learn the language as much as possible (This is not just for safety, but also for courtesy, which can actually keep you safer too!) Remember the old saying you can catch more flies with honey than vinegar?
- Research your destination: Make sure you are up to date on the current travel warnings.
- Keep windows shut and doors locked in a car: especially at traffic lights
- Use first-class bus companies– these bus companies take toll roads that have security checks on passengers as they board.
- Don’t walk around by yourself late at night: You are asking for trouble.
- Be careful taking money out of the ATM: these are good spots to rob people.
- Use a money belt: Keep the thieves at bay.
- Don’t get scammed: If someone is asking you for your personal information will are likely scamming.
- Don’t wear flashy jewelry – looking like you are balling out of control will get you robbed. Leave your LV and Gucci in the States.
- Avoid getting DRUNK: you need to know where you are at all times.
- Don’t try to buy drugs: Don’t ask about buying drugs and don’t even think about buying drugs.
- DON’T travel at night: Most crime occurs at night.
- Only use well-known tour operators: Most of the cheaper tour operators will not have up-to-date equipment and experienced guides.
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Additional Safety Tips to Take while Visiting Puerto Vallarta
Beaches
There are plenty of beaches to discover and to choose as your favorite, each of them with a particular enchantment, some of them are accessible only by boat, hidden and surrounded by magical sceneries, others with plenty of life going around them
Avoid swimming at the beach when a black warning flag is posted. Cover your child with sunscreen or protective clothing before heading to the beach.
There are two main beaches in Puerto Vallarta, Playa Camarones (Camarones Beach) and Los Muertos Beach (or Playa de Los Muertos), the first beach is along the northern part of downtown and the second beach is in the “Romantic Zone” or Old Vallarta, south of the Cuale River.
Wear Sunscreen in Puerto Vallarta
You didn’t fly to Mexico to stay inside but please beware that Mexican rays are intense and can lead to a severe burn or sun poisoning, especially during the warmer spring and summer months.
The sun in Puerto Vallarta is pretty strong and high in damaging UV rays. Stay hydrated and limit the amount of sun you get based on your skin type.
• Staying in the shade as much as possible.
• Protecting skin with clothing.
• Applying sunscreen to protect skin from harmful rays.
• Wearing a hat preferably with at least 2-3 inches brim all around.
• Wear sunglasses to protect yourself from UV rays.
Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta
The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is between April and June when the weather is pleasant and the room rates are affordable.
During these months, rain is scarce and there are fewer tourists compared to the winter high season. If you’re interested in whale watching, however, visit from December to March.
Just prepare yourself for the area’s most astronomical travel fares.
What Not To Miss in Puerto Vallarta
There are many great activities for those spending just a day in Puerto Vallarta.
- Explore the beautiful Malecón the boardwalk that runs parallel to Banderas Bay.
- Los Arcos or the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe – are two of the most iconic images of the city.
- Botanical Gardens of Vallarta
- The Northern seaside town of Bucerías.
- Signing up for one of the best Puerto Vallarta tours
Millions of people visit Mexico each year and 99% of travelers do not run into any trouble but the 1% that makes the news is all that you hear about and you begin worrying about Puerto Vallarta crime for absolutely no reason.
If you are the victim of a crime or travel scam please contact the local police department.
Emergency Contact Information
Creating an Emergency Card
In the case of an emergency, it makes everything much easier if you have all your important information compiled in one place.
I created an emergency card for myself, my husband, and my daughter with all the following information and shared it with a close family member and made a copy to put in my wallet or purse):
- Medication allergies and a list of medications you take.
- Blood type.
- Emergency contact information (preferably a blood relative). Include name, relationship, phone number, address, and email address.
- Your insurance information.
Contact Information
- Dial 911 in case of an emergency
- Nearby Hospitals
- CMQ Hospital Puerto Vallarta: +52 322 223 1919
- Hospital CMQ Riviera Nayarit (Bucerias): +52 329 298 0717
- Hospital Joya Riviera (Nuevo Vallarta): +52 322 226 8181
- Hospital Joya Marina Vallarta: +52 322 226 1010
- U.S. Consular Agency
- +52 333 268 2100
- Paseo de los Cocoteros #85, Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit
- Consular Agency of Canada
- +52 322 293 0098
- Plaza Peninsula, Blvrd Francisco Medina Ascencio 2485, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
- Vallarta Tourism Center
- +52 322 221 2676
Mexico Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is great for covering things like:
- Medical emergency insurance: Your health plan back home may provide zero or very little coverage in Mexico. This type of insurance may reimburse you for medical expenses you incur because of an illness or accident that occurs during your trip.
- Trip cancellation insurance: This covers non-refundable expenses such as tours, excursions, hotels, etc. For example, if a storm hits your vacation destination and forces you to cancel the trip, this insurance can cover 100% of the non-refundable trip expenses that you prepaid. It also covers cancellation due to diagnosed illness before traveling.
- Quarantine accommodations: Get coverage for accommodations if you have to quarantine at your destination.
- Trip interruption coverage: This is in case you need to cut your trip short and return home sooner than expected. These benefits apply if you or a traveling companion become ill or injured during a trip, for example.
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Are Mexico Resorts Safe
There have been incidents of carbon monoxide poisoning at resorts, which have left some potential visitors with questions and doubts.
Understanding Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly when inhaled in high concentrations.
Common sources of carbon monoxide include faulty fuel-burning appliances, such as gas heaters, furnaces, and water heaters.
In recent resort incidents, carbon monoxide poisoning deaths have been linked to faulty ventilation systems or poorly maintained equipment.
Staying Safe at Mexico Resorts:
- Research and Choose Reputable Resorts: Before booking your stay, research the resort’s safety record, reviews, and certifications. Look for resorts that prioritize guest safety, regularly inspect their facilities, and maintain proper ventilation systems.
- Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Pack a portable carbon monoxide detector or inquire whether the resort provides them in guest rooms. These devices will alert you to the presence of high levels of carbon monoxide and provide an early warning in case of a leak.
- Familiarize Yourself with Resort Safety Measures: Upon arrival, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the resort’s emergency procedures, including evacuation routes, fire exits, and safety guidelines. Ensure you know how to report any concerns about gas appliances or ventilation to the appropriate resort staff.
- Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: While in your room, be cautious of any signs of potential carbon monoxide leaks. If you experience symptoms like headaches, nausea, dizziness, or confusion, it could be an indication of carbon monoxide poisoning. Immediately exit the room, alert the resort staff, and seek medical attention.
Safest Hotels in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta offers a myriad of luxurious accommodations for discerning travelers seeking an indulgent escape.
Here is my list of the most luxurious hotels in Puerto Vallarta, where refined elegance meets world-class hospitality.
- The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort: Immerse yourself in refined luxury at The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort. Nestled within a private peninsula, this exquisite beachfront property boasts stunning ocean views, lavish suites, and a world-renowned Remède Spa. Indulge in exceptional dining experiences, take a dip in the infinity pools, or tee off at the Jack Nicklaus-designed golf courses for an unforgettable stay.
- Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita: Perched on the pristine shores of the Riviera Nayarit, the Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita exudes elegance and tranquility. With its lush gardens, infinity-edge pools, and beautifully appointed villas, this luxury resort offers an idyllic escape. Guests can enjoy a wide range of activities, including snorkeling, paddle boarding, and exploring the nearby Marietas Islands.
- Casa Velas: Located in the exclusive Marina Vallarta area, Casa Velas is an adults-only, all-inclusive boutique hotel that radiates sophistication and charm. This secluded retreat provides a serene ambiance, spacious suites with private plunge pools, and access to the private Ocean Club beach club. Indulge in gourmet dining experiences and pamper yourself at the award-winning Spa Casa Velas.
- Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit: Discover a world of refined luxury at the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. This AAA Five Diamond resort boasts spacious suites with panoramic ocean views, world-class restaurants offering culinary delights, and an extensive spa and wellness center. Whether lounging by the pool, enjoying the golden beach, or experiencing their renowned Kids’ and Teens’ Club, this resort caters to every guest’s desires.
- Imanta Resorts Punta de Mita: For those seeking unparalleled seclusion and exclusivity, Imanta Resorts Punta de Mita is the epitome of a hidden paradise. Nestled within a lush jungle and perched on a pristine coastline, this eco-luxury resort offers private villas with infinity pools, personalized service, and a deep connection with nature. Indulge in gourmet dining, and spa treatments, and explore the surrounding rainforests for an unforgettable experience.
Conclusion: Is Puerto Vallarta Safe
Is Puerto Vallarta safe? Yes, if you stay abreast of all Mexico travel warnings, exercise common sense, and pay attention to news about safety in the city you are visiting I don’t think you will have any issues.
Keep in mind that bad things can anywhere not just in Mexico but I am sure there are crimes taking place right in your very own neighborhood.
No matter where you go in Mexico, follow the common-sense rules that are listed above like drinking only in moderation, getting a cab instead of wandering around after dark, and leaving your expensive watches and rings at home.
Mexico is safe to visit so long as you stay out of trouble, take precautions, don’t buy drugs, and ladies do not allow men to buy you a cocktail and I don’t care how cute he is. BUY YOUR OWN COCKTAILS!
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ADDITIONAL ARTICLES ON MEXICO
Is It Safe To Travel To Mexico
Safest Cities in Mexico for Solo Travelers
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I have been in Puerto Vallarta off and on for most of the last 18 months. I have never felt unsafe or intimidated by the Mexican Naval members riding their jeeps and fully armed. I appreciate that they are helping out. No one can convince me that this beach paradise is more dangerous than many US cities. I strive to be alert, but personally I have not had any situations that put me in fear. I believe this is more of a political front than an actual danger. Thanks for addressing today’s “travel alert”! Obviously if less visitors come, it will hurt the local economy. I have not found nicer people in any country I have visited in my 49 years of traveling the world!
Mike
Hell no it’s not safe in Puerto Vallarta! My son died there on March 10th 2022. His death was ruled an accident. But the fact is, if he wasn’t there. he woud have lived. It took 3 weeks to get his body back to Sacramento. I will never visit Mexico again. Tourists BEWARE!!!!