Is Mexico safe for tourists?
When planning a trip to Mexico, travelers often think about safety.
The reality is far from the sensational headlines often portrayed in the media. Mexico has much to offer, but as with any destination, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and take appropriate precautions.
So, is Mexico safe for tourists?
Overall, Mexico is a very safe and secure country to travel. It is rare to hear of foreigners or tourists being attacked, kidnapped, or killed in Mexico. What you usually hear in the media is related to cartels and other cartels.
While reports of cartel-related violence may make headlines, the vast majority of tourists visit Mexico without incident. Incidents involving foreigners are rare and most visitors enjoy their stay without any security concerns.
So let’s start by getting rid of the misconception that Mexico is unsafe.
However, you do encounter some crime, especially in larger cities. Therefore, you need to be smart about your property, money, and overall security. Be smart and careful with your belongings and you will be fine.
When traveling around Mexico City, you may often become a victim of thefts, burglaries, and pickpockets. This is not something unique to Mexico City, it is a common occurrence in any major city (New York, Paris, Rome).
Another common negative thing, especially common in tourist cities (Cabo, Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, etc.), is that you may get scammed by tour sellers (agencies). You will be charged double for a tour of a specific location.
This is again common in other cities around the world. Always make sure you can find the average cost of the tour you are interested in in advance to avoid paying more money. Google similar tours and compare prices.
The general rule in Mexico is not to take a taxi unless you are taking one from the airport or bus station. They are more expensive but generally safe. The best transportation option from the airport to the hotel is Uber.
Uber is present in almost all major cities in Mexico.
When it comes to safety, there are some areas and neighborhoods in some cities that a foreigner (and even a local) should avoid. They are known for high crime rates, including kidnappings, murders, and general violence.
Usually, you (as a tourist) have no reason to be there since there are no museums or interesting places there. Just find out what these places are and avoid going there at all costs.
Overall, tourism in Mexico doesn’t have many dark sides (at least not known to the general public). Be smart, avoid contact with cartels and shady areas of the city, and everything will be fine.
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