is mexico safe solo travel

Machismo culture also still dominates. Thanks! I share some other travel safety advice for short term rentals specific to Mexico in my video chat so be sure to watch it all the way through. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Choose centrally located accommodations. The most dangerous states in Mexico include: The DOS states that theyve put these states at a Level 4 for safety because of crime and kidnapping. As a whole, Mexico isnt a very safe country for women traveling alone and it isnt the best choice for first-time solo travelers. Personally, I love Mexico City. Agree completely. When she's not writing, you'll find her lying on a beach somewhere, lost in a crime novel. You can also book your airport transfer in advance. As for Playa del Carmen, I recommend staying in the tourist zone by the beach. Dominating the second portion of North America, Mexico is a bustling tourist hotspot and as typographically diverse as it is culturally distinct. In conclusion, Mexico can be a safe and enjoyable destination for solo travelers, including Black women over 50. Whatever your reason, solo travel is, almost without exception, a deeply enriching experience for anyone looking to get to know the world outside of their hometown. We caught up with Ruuska to find out whether its safe to travel to Mexico right now. Is it safe to travel alone in Mexico? Our guide looks at all the risks that come with traveling to Mexico in 2022 to determine whether or not its the vacation spot for you. Adriatic Romance: The 7 Best Croatian Islands For Couples, Is India Expensive? Because there are SO many amazing things to see here. Aguililla and Zitcuaro and surrounding towns in Michoacn, and certain areas in Guanajuato, including Celaya, Salamanca and Irapuato, are off limits, for the same reasons, says Ruuska. In November 2021, four American travelers were hurt in an attack in Cancun when gunmen opened fire on the beach. Other things travelers should avoid in Mexico include visiting regions on the US States Departments Do Not Travel list, drinking the tap water, wandering neighborhoods in Mexico aimlessly, and wearing flashy jewelry or electronics. While COVID-19 restrictions have loosened, the Mexican government still encourages everyone to practice social distancing and wash their hands. Instead, Ill point you to my articles that dive deep into safety in the following destinations: Ive also written an article on Safety in Quintana Roo, which covers safety in Bacalar and the Riviera Maya. Basically, you get hit with a gross substance like bird feces, and a kind passerby helps you clean it off. What are your thoughts? Mexico is a stunningly beautiful and vibrant country, and you would be remiss to allow news headlines to prevent you from venturing there to experience it for yourself, by yourself. Both Daniel and I have solo traveled around Mexico, and we both had super positive experiences. There have been only 37 recorded tsunami waves in the Caribbean basin since the 1500s, but due to Mexicos geological location, experts say there is more than a 40 percent chance of a potentially-damaging tsunami occurring in the next five decades. Its impossible not to fall in love with Mexico. It the most wonderful place. The safety situation in Mexico does vary considerably by region, however. In general, hurricane season runs from June to November, with September and October being particularly risky months for hurricanes. Having a safe experience in the Mexican states that the DOS labels as Level 1 or Level 2 usually comes down to practicing common sense. Read my article on Cabo San Lucas vs. San Jose del Cabo if youre confused about the difference between the two). This is especially true for solo female travelers. Unfortunately, Quintana Roo has taken a major hit safety-wise in recent years. Bottled water is widely available in Mexican convenience stores at affordable prices. I wish I had known how wonderful it is the gorgeous towns and beautiful culture earlier in life. The DOS currently lists Baja California State as a Level 3 (reconsider travel) due to crime and kidnapping. I have only encountered graciousness, and kindness all over Mexico. You can visit GetYourGuide to see pricing and availability for your travel dates. How to Stay Safe in Mexico as a Solo Female Traveler A Solo Traveler's Guide to Mexico City - Culture Trip I felt very safe in Nayarit state during my time in Sayulita. Additionally, solo female travelers may need to exercise increased caution in Mexico. Do your research before departure, says Ruuska. This incident resurfacedthe age old question of whether Mexico is safe for travel. You can get a quote in minutes! Here's what to know about travel safety in Mexico: Travel warnings There are 32 states in Mexico, and the US State Department has "do not travel" advisories in place for six, . With a bad reputation for violent crime and criminal groups, it often scares people away. Mexican culture goes much further than the stereotypes attuned to it and safety initiatives have allowed tourists unchartered access to most of its charms. We each have this one precious life you owe it to yourself to live your life to the fullest NOW! Required fields are marked *. However the recent negative press about the gang was and increased tourists safety is worrying. When is the best time to visit Mexico City? Connect with fellow travelers One of the joys of solo travel is the opportunity to meet fascinating people from around the world. These include Jalisco state (home to Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara), Guanajuato state (home to San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato city), and Baja California state (home to Tijuana). Replacing a lost immigration form (tourist card) Avoid immigration jail. Most people assume that since Mexico is a top tourist destination that renting a car will be a piece of cake. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. For Black women over 50, its also important to be aware of potential cultural differences that may impact your experience. Among the must-visits are the Zcalo, around which you'll find the grand Catedral Metropolitana and the Aztec ruins of the Templo Mayor; Chapultepec Park, the biggest . Never leave your drink unattended or accept drinks from strangers or new acquaintances that you have not seen poured, says Ruuska. However, many people in Mexico still choose to wear masks in other places too. Originally from London, Esm is lucky enough to call Bali home. Here are some tips to follow if you do intend to solo travel Mexico: You might be surprised to hear us say that with its well-established tourism industry and availability of accommodations and resources, Mexico is a pretty good option for women who decide to travel solo! Statistically speaking, travellers are quite safe in Mexico; though you'll need to remain aware of your surroundings more as a solo traveler (in Mexico, and anywhere). Transformative Travel: I look at how travel can change lives. Her travels have taken her from the far corners of the East to the islands of the Caribbean. You still need to be a very smart traveler when you travel to Mexico. Airport Arrival, immigration limits,and hotel tranportation. Yucatn, where youll find the party haven of Cancn and lusted, beach resorts like Tulum and Cozumel, is the most peaceful state, with lower crime rates than most US cities. My experience mirrors that; Ive had extremely positive experiences traveling and staying within it. Pictured here: Cancun, where recent violence has impacted tourists. In this blog post, we will explore the safety considerations for solo travelers in Mexico and recommend some non-beach destinations and less touristy beach locations that are worth considering for travel and are known to be safe destinations for solo travel. Many people say Baja California when they refer to the Baja California Peninsula. This is especially common in Mexico City. Keep a good head on your shoulders and stay in control when youre out partying in Mexico. Ultimately, all travel is risky and to some extent the decision whether to travel is up to you. The best way to avoid this scam is by using trusted ATMs in official banks. I know it can be scary to see some of the DOS recommendations. Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. On that note, its not safe to take an Uber in Quintana Roo at the moment. Unfortunately, as with all other travel situations, women may want to abide by a different set of rules to keep them extra safe, and thats why were here for you. You really dont want to deal with the local police in Mexico because its very different from the United States. Just take the standard precautions (keep your valuables secure, always be aware of your . Although many gangs have dispersed since a global war on drugs sought to infiltrate and eradicate drug-related crime, with much success, around 150 organized crime groups still operate in the country. Within the city boundaries, petty crime and pickpocketers are your biggest concern and you should take precautions as you would in any city. Stay alert, plan ahead, and know your limits, but theres no reason for security concerns to keep you from a Mexican adventure. In general, Mexican people are friendly, fun-loving, helpful and openand curious of solo female travelers.. She's an early bird and backpacker at heart and can often be spotted with a dog or ten that she's befriended along the way. What about Guanajuato city? Mexico is generally safe for solo female travellers. The cartels have a stronghold on several states in Mexico, placing those states on the DOS Do Not Travel list. Authorities have also increased security measures in these areas, including Cancn, Acapulco, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta. You may also see the national guard, particularly in Quintana Roo. If you are looking for a beach getaway, there are plenty of less touristy options to consider. Will I get mugged? What are my chances of doing this safely? Can I take this trip and make it back in one piece?. Im doing my best to answer the questions I receive. Or how can we improve it to help you travel better? Ill talk in more detail about all of these destinations shortly. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. (Quick tip for the city: ignore the cat callers. Some areas of Mexico have increased risk of crime and kidnapping. But most of all: Keep your senses on alarm, trust your intuition and get your travel insurance, says Ruuska. A popular way in Mexico is the airport taxi upcharge. However, the safety situation in any destination can change fast, and Im not currently on the ground in Mexico. Although, you should always use your judgment before jumping to trust strangers in any foreign country. Inland, remote regions also suffer most from floods and landslides at this time, so never go off the beaten track without guidance and always let people know where you are. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Solo travel has the power to transform: Think of the memoirs "Eat Pray Love" or "Wild.". The important thing is knowing the risks, understanding the threats, and making a plan for how you intend to factor these into your day-to-day movements to minimize your risk of harm as much as possible. Mexican drug cartels have been among the worlds leading suppliers of cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine for decades. As a whole, Mexico is generally safe for travelers if you take proper precautions, do your research, and use your head. So, lets address the question Is Mexico Safe in this guide: Disclosure: Travel Lemming is an independent reader-supported blog. Is Mexico Safe for Tourists: 2022 Safety Guide to Mexico - JTG Travel But its far from a truly safe country; according to the 2021 Global Organized Crime Index Report, Mexico is the fourth country in the world most affected by organized crime. Go see the world and live your best authentic unapologetic and free life right now. Especially if youre in gang territory, which isnt safe for solo travelers. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be deadly, and many vacation rentals in Mexico do not have functioning detectors. Traveling to Mexico alone is not the most common travel choice. Avoid flashy clothes and jewelry., Traveling as a solo female in Mexico can be a rich experience when safety considerations are in place, says Ruuska. Yes, the most popular landmarks have a heavy footfall, but they're popular for a reason. Is Mexico Safe? A Solo Female Perspective - A Piece of Travel San Miguel de Allende is very touristic, has a ton of foreigners (youll hear more English than Spanish in the city center), and is generally safe although it does occasionally have high profile incidents. It does not store any personal data. 2022 All Rights Reserved BaldGirlWillTravel,LLC |. With preparation and experience, taking the dive to travel by yourself will be one of the best experiences of your life. Your email address will not be published. Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. Staying safe just takes awareness and research the rest is a breeze. Many areas in Mexico are safe enough if you take proper precautions. But Baja California is also a state. Is Mexico Safe to Visit in 2023? | Safety Guide | Travellers After a post-college adventure around 6 Asian countries, she dove head-first into a writing career and travel lifestyle. Just keep a close eye on your tab and you should be able to avoid becoming a victim of a restaurant scam. Most visitors report using the water to brush their teeth without any issues, but this isnt recommended in really remote areas or where signs instruct otherwise. All rights reserved. Theres so much to explore, and thankfully, most of the country is now largely accessible and safe for tourists. Please keep in mind that, like anywhere in the world, the safety of any given destination in Mexico is subject to change. Organized crime is the main driver of homicide and gun violence in Mexico, with two-thirds of deaths being linked to the drug trade. If you're wondering, Is Mexico City safe to visit for solo female travelers?, the answer is YES for the most part, it is. This, along with the climatic setting, makes it vulnerable to a host of different natural disasters. There are 8X more crimes committed in total in the United States than Mexico, largely due to Americas size and population. Below is an overview of what you can expect safety-wise from some of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico, based on my personal experience. Earthquakes, tsunamis, flooding, hurricanes, landslides, and volcanic eruptions are all real and imminent threats. Some of the most common scams in Mexico to look out for include: Fake ATMs When youre grabbing cash at an ATM, you may not normally think about what ATM youre using. My husband and I planned to go down to San Miguel de Allende (fly into Queretaro & then shuttle it to San Miguel), but now Im worried it might now be safe? While these numbers can make Mexico seem daunting, the majority of violent crime is interpersonal, inter-gang, and causational. It is small enough to slip into a carryon suitcase. So, you can expect an increase in police presence in popular tourist areas. Even something that might be considered minor in your home country can be extremely dangerous in a country like Mexico where the drug cartel is prevalent. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". Colourful art, soulful music, elaborate food, rich history You can read my articles on Safety in Merida and Safety in the Yucatan for more details. So, I felt safe wandering around at night from my centrally located hostel. These advisories include risks of crime and kidnapping in certain areas. Some areas in Chiapas, including Altamirano and Pantelh, should be avoided due to a recent uptick in attacks and disruptions by vigilante groups. How safe is it to travel to Mexico? (2021) - Wise Traveling at night time isnt necessarily going to end in disaster, but there is a higher chance of encountering trouble. Petty crime is rife, as with any tourist hotspot in the world, and solo travelers are more at risk. Otherwise, there is a higher chance of you becoming a victim of a crime in Mexico. Much of the content Laura writes on A Piece of Travel includes details on solo female travel and. A Piece of Travel is a blog offering advice on self-guided travel for wheelchair users and solo female travelers. Here: admiring. Despite the negative press, Quintana Roo doesnt have to be off-limits. Travel to Cancn, Tulum and the surrounding areas in Quintana Roo is still considered safe, says Ruuska. Theyre not worth engaging and it could get you in trouble). Is Mexico safe for solo travelers? The word Mexico often conjures up many images for people depending on what theyve heard in the news or experienced as a traveler. Then theres Covid-19, which is still problematic. Women can expect unwarranted attention, alone or otherwise, and while this usually wont go beyond catcalls and whistles, you should always keep your wits about you. Simply type in airport transfer and the destination in Mexico youll be visiting, and youll receive a list of options. While solo travel is an incredible experience, it's important to prioritize your safety and well-being throughout your journey. I traveled and lived in Mexico for nearly a year and learned a lot of Mexico tips for staying safe. This is one of the most crucial safety tips for a tourist in Mexico. America also has higher rates of gun violence, sexual assault, and drug abuse. See our Advertising Policy for further explanation. Women should take extra precautions when travelling alone, such as avoiding walking alone at night, being aware of their surroundings, and avoiding isolated areas. The US State Department currently has a Level 4: Do Not Travel warning for the following Mexican states: In March 2023, four Americans were kidnapped (and two killed) when they were reportedly caught in the crossfire of cartel violence in Tamaulipas state, which borders Texas. Baja California Sur is a popular tourist stop for many, as its home to Los Cabos (Psst! Restaurant Scams Another common issue tourists run into when they travel to Mexico is restaurant scams. Is it safe to travel to Mexico? Here's what you need to know 2022 Money Guide to the South Asian Jewel. Quintana Roo is home to some of the most popular destinations in Mexico, including: Other slightly lesser-known but still popular tourist destinations include Puerto Morelos, Puerto Aventuras, Akumal, Bacalar, and Chetumal. For example, Puerto Vallarta is in Jalisco state, which is subject to an elevated safety warning. There have also been murders of journalists, murders of women and the list goes on. Big capitals always come with their problems and Mexico City is not one of the safest places to be. During this scam, the driver hurries you into a big van or doesnt run the taxi meter to overcharge you for a ride from the airport. Ill be addressing the question, Is Mexico safe? largely from my personal experience. Click on a star to rate (you can leave feedback after clicking submit). Airport Taxi Upcharge Airports are always filled with people looking to take advantage of tourists. The thing with safe travel in Mexico, and anywhere in the world, is that safety is not a guaranteed anywhere on Earth. Since Ive spent so much time in Quintana Roo, I could go on all day about safety there. Your email address will not be published. But that shouldn't be a deterrent. The most common natural disaster that occurs in Mexico is earthquakes. Copyright BaldGirlWillTravel,LLC 2022.
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