Plan your trip accordingly to avoid any issues. The problem really is what people consider as dangerous. You'll want to research the security and medical risks of destinations you're considering and make sure that you have confidence in your accommodations, transport, means of communication and security arrangements, says Lopez-Aranda. Though, granted, its not just a place you can drop into unannounced and expect everything to be hunky dory. Learn some basic Spanish phrases. Precautions and planning Caution and situational awareness are key all over the country -- and the world for that matter. Yes, travel from the U.S. to Mexico is allowed. More about Isabella Kwai. A rash of . . The map above shows the advisory level for each Mexican state. If you go, go with eyes wide open. These are the travel advisories for each state: Newsweek has reached out to the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City via phone and email for comment. Its generally safe to travel around Mexico, but theres no such thing as being too careful. The U.S. State Department provides state-by-state information about travel risks in Mexico. Heres what you need to bear in mind when planning your trip to Mexico. SafetyWing is convenient, cheap, and trouble-free Insurance was never this easy! Warring drug cartels have resulted in a high (and increasing) murder rate and violence. That prompted the U.S. Embassy in Mexico to issue a security alert. Hurricane season and earthquakes really are up to Mother Earth. Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. Quintana Roo and Baja California Sur are at Level 2, indicating that visitors should exercise increased caution. Morocco was the second-most dangerous place on the, Jamaica may look beautiful, but its wise to be. Common sense is the key when traveling to potentially hostile areas, experts say. And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. In smaller towns, try to have a male companion. "Mexican Cartels kidnapped 4 Americans this weekend and Mexico is so DANGEROUS that if you go to Mexico 'you are on your own!,'" she tweeted. On March 3, four Americans from South Carolina traveling in a white minivan crossed the border from Brownsville, Texas, into the city of Matamoros, in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas. And the State Department has warned tourists to steer clear of six states, including the state of Tamaulipas, where the recent kidnapping occurred and to exercise increased precautions in other popular destinations like Playa del Carmen, Cancn, Tulum and Mexico City. Is Mexico friendly to the LGBTQ+ community? Theyve been doing it since 2002 protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you. Drug-related crimes mainly involve (but not limited to) the northern states. Call an Uber or cab from your hotel no hailing on the street in Lima. SPRING BREAK & many have plans for Mexico. Getting around in Mexico can be a challenge, depending on where youre headed to. The ruling infuriated the powerful unions, which are believed to have links to local organized crime figures and former governors. Important information about going to Mexico. Turkey, one of the top 10 most dangerous places. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia said she was outraged that the U.S. government seemed more concerned about the war in Ukraine than the situation in Mexico. One of the Americans was scheduled for cosmetic surgery. Police shared new details on the case of Carlethia "Carlee" Nichole Russell, the Alabama woman who went missing after calling 911 to report a toddler walking alone on the side of the highway . As many Americans prepare to travel for spring break, the U.S. State Department has issued a series of travel advisories for states in Mexico, noting "widespread" violent crime. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, even in areas normally considered safe. I recommend trying to stick to tourist-friendly events to take part in, and book everything through official partnerships and guides. I don't think so. Safest Places to Visit in Mexico for Solo Female Travellers Shortly after they crossed the border, unidentified gunmen fired on the vehicle. Mexico Travel Advisory Officials later said that two of the group were found dead at a rural location alongside the other two, who had survived. You might be wondering whether it is safe to travel to Mexico right now because of Covid. That means a trip to Mexico City should be safe as long as youre careful and take measures to protect yourself. The emergency number in Mexico is 911. At the time of writing 5 regions of Mexico get the US State Departments highest level of travel advisory meaning you should not travel there: Crime and kidnappings are common in these areas best avoided. Probably not the first country Id recommend to dive into your first solo tour but its not exactly a no-go zone. Do your own research. Without a doubt, you should have good Mexico travel insurance. Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Local authorities, flush with tourism revenues, invested in the police, which is typically the weakest link in Mexican law enforcement. Is Mexico Safe to Travel Alone? The Pacific Coast state of Jalisco, home to the resort of Puerto Vallarta, picturesque tequila country and the cultural and gastronomic attractions of the state capital, Guadalajara, is also the center of operations of the extremely violent Jalisco New Generation Cartel. "The whole government is working on it.". The joint approach led to a lull in gangland gun battles in Quintana Roos tourist areas, and experts say that drug sales to meet foreign demand no longer take place on the street, although they are continuing more discreetly. There are plenty of reasons to visit Mexico. The murder rate soared in Los Cabos in 2017 amid cartel wars, and although tourists were not targeted, that year police chased gunmen into the lobby of a luxury hotel in San Jos del Cabo, and a cooler containing two heads was left in a tourist area. Be careful. Id always encourage travelers to ride their own edge whether thats a solo trip to Paris or Bangladesh.. The information in this publication does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its affiliates. First, an overview. For some Trip by Skyscanner users, this doesntnecessarily mean no go, but it definitely means take caution. And while Mexico didnt makethe top 10 list, it still raises concern with people like Julia Pond, Trip by Skyscanners editorial director, who shared her insight on how to stay safe, whether youre in Mexico or any of the placeson the list. Situational awareness wherever you go Playa del Carmen and Cancn, which are welcoming an influx of spring break travelers, are located in the state of Quintana Roo, where the State Department advises travelers to "exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.". Its all about being in the wrong place at the wrong time., Mr. de Hail recommends researching the resort and news from the area youre visiting. On the whole, Mexico is safe to travel for families. Travelling to Mexico right now is safe. Avoid sporting events after dark thats when gang activity is common. Mexico has kept its borders open to North Americans for a good portion of the pandemic. The question of Is Mexico Safe? will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. As spring break planning heats up, incidents of violence in Mexico continue to make news leaving travelers to wonder whether a perennially popular destination is safe to visit. Its important for the Mexican government to maintain this huge income from tourism, so ensuring the safety of these visitors is paramount. 06500, US Embassy telephone: If youre traveling to Mexico alone or in a group youll need to choose your destination carefully and exercise caution when youre out and about. But as long as you stay in your lane, mind your business, and practice caution, you should have no problem. Highway buses (camiones) are safe in Mexico, easy to get, and are run by reputable bus companies. The more conservative a country is, the more conservative you should be, says Pond. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); The quick answer to that question is yes. The stock image wouldn't lie now, would it? Three airports in the state of Sinaloa, including the beach destination Mazatln, were closed on Jan. 5 amid gang violence after Mexican security forces arrested Ovidio Guzmn Lpez, a son of Joaqun Guzmn Loera, the crime lord known as El Chapo, who is serving a life sentence in the United States. Everything you need to know about documents youll need when entering Mexico. For a start, youre less likely to be travelling through the rougher and less trodden paths that backpackers would be taking. The State Department notes in its Quintana Roo advisory that violence and criminal activity may occur anywhere, "including in popular tourist destinations.". Knowing in advance what to do if you need support when traveling is just good practise. Driving is a good way to see the country at your own pace. 25 Yr old woman going to Mexico City alone safe??? This shows no signs of slowing down, with murder rates in Mexico increasing as of 2020. The tastes, smells, sights, and sounds of Mexico are irresistible. Safety-wise well, I wont sugar coat it: Mexico does pose some safety risks. Is Mexico Safe for Travel Right Now? (2023 Safety Guide) Solo trip to Mexico: a complete guide for safety and fun - Worldpackers Lopez-Aranda lives in Mexico City, where petty crime is a persistent risk and precautions should be taken, he said, "but the most popular locations are relatively safe for all kinds of travelers.". Turmoil among taxi drivers in Cancn. See my site Policies Children are a big part of society and youll be well looked after if you travel there with your own in tow. Yes, sir. Ive covered the main safety concerns already, but there is plenty more information on how to have a safe trip to Mexico. There are plenty of regions and cities that are more than safe to visit. Carrying a purse or bag that has a proper closure and not resting it on the back of your chair, for example. Trip by Skyscannersadvicefor how to stay safe: READ MORE: 20 Most Dangerous Places For Women Travelers. Remember, you are a guest when you are travelling in Mexico. For the sake of caution, I suggest not putting them on your Mexico itinerary. Currently, Mexico does not require any specific. Though, so does almost anywhere in the world. As anywhere, common sense should prevail, Mr. de Hail said: Dont wear expensive watches or jewelry, and avoid dark and deserted places. This is not what Mexico is actually like. While the motives in the attack remain unclear, the Americans had very bad luck, Mr. Guerrero said, because they likely stumbled into a battle between the two gangs. Safety and security - Mexico travel advice - GOV.UK Get up to date advice and information from the US Embassy in Mexico, and the Mexico country page on the State Department website. Taxi drivers then began harassing and threatening Uber drivers. Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own. Its important to remember that even in countries with political problems or issues with violence, danger is not a 100% guarantee. It is key to respect local dress norms in Egypt and avoid attracting attention: Cover your shoulders and knees. Is Mexico Safe for Solo Female Travellers. Grab taxis from well-lit, well-trafficked areas and use lowest denomination bills whenever you can. Get a quote below or read our in-depth review! The more reputable ones cost a bit more but are safer (they check passengers for weapons at boarding) and more comfortable (reclining seats!). Travel In 2022.". officials work with authorities to secure the safe return of 4 citizens taken at gunpoint on Friday in Matamoros, Tamaulipas. The Americans were taken from the scene by armed men, the FBI said. "Exercise normal precautions" is the guidance for the states of Campeche and Yucatn on the Yucatn Peninsula. Different regions in Mexico are accorded a rating differently and there are places in the country which fall into each of the 4 advisory levels. Why its so dangerous: The riskof traveling to the Bahamas comes as a surprise to many U.S. travelers, who flock to this chain of beautiful islands for blissful beach holidays. A stray bullet fired by cartel gunmen shooting at a Mexican military plane as it landed at the airport in the state capital, Culiacn, clipped an Aeromexico plane preparing to take off for Mexico City. Always keep your key items phone, wallet, passport, etc. This stunning Latin American highlight makes this wide world a much brighter place to live. In 2018, Mexico had the highest number of homicides in the country's history, with an average of 91 deaths a dayand 2019 is on track to break the record. Even with a companion, sexual assault remains a serious and ongoing problem. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads usingthis link. Avoid walking alone at night and, if you must, brace yourself for catcalling and other forms of street harassment. Let me make it clear that there are always safety protocols to follow to ensure that statement can be upheld. Wise keeps your money safe. Generally, public transport is safe in Mexico. The Matamoros incident shows how violence can flare up in places that have been quiet recently. 1/9/18: Editors Note: This story was based on asurvey thatwas originallydone by Trip.com. I want to share some love for my Mexican brothers and sisters who dont deserve the bad reputation that the country generally holds. Stick to the beaten path when hiking, especially if youre alone. Always keep your valuables on you dont put any in the stowed luggage compartment. It should also be noted that the police do pose some safety issues in Mexico too. Foreign travel advice Foreign travel advice Mexico Contents Warnings and insurance Entry requirements Safety and security Regional risks Health Getting help Get email alerts Safety and. Then theres traveling around the country itself. Before people start kicking off in the comments about that statement, let me turn that question on its head. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers. There are also occasional carjackings and kidnappings OSAC advises drivers to travel intercity in daylight hours only. Paseo de la Reforma, 305 As with many places, taxi scams are also fairly widespread, with rigged metres meaning you pay far more than you should. But that doesnt necessarily reflect how tourists are treated in this country. This can help you get oriented to the place and culture. Quintana Roo and Oaxaca are two of the safest states in Mexico to visit. There are places in the country where the situation can change abruptly from one week to another, he said. As part of the launch of its newest and 20th tribe, Solo Female Travelers, Trip by Skyscanner recently released a list of the 10 most dangerous places for solo female travelers. Be cautious but also be reassured that since youre not a part of the violence in Mexico, youre less likely to be targeted. Trip by Skyscanners advicefor how to stay safe: Why its so dangerous:Despite travel warnings,arecord 35 million international travelers visited Mexicoin 2016, up9% over the previous year. And you should have copies of your documents, contact information for your country's embassy or consulate and the location of the closest hospital with you. You should know the score when it comes to staying safe in Mexico. Ill cover a range of topics about using public transport, personal safety, criminal activity, the popular tourist destinations, and where exactly you need to exercise increased caution. Sinaloa state due to crime and kidnapping Tamaulipas state due to crime and kidnapping. India is another place to take caution, according, The Bahamas: Its beautiful, but travelers should, A pretty street in Ecuador but dont let looks, Watch out whats in that cocktail when youre, traveling to Mexico, advises the State Department. Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times. Unless youre looking for trouble in Mexico, it shouldnt come looking for you. Undoubtedly, some of these places to stay in Mexico are safer than others. A hidden bribe has been known to come in handy too. The conflict generated widespread attention after a video of taxi drivers forcing a Russian-speaking family out of their rideshare car went viral, and after unions blocked the main road leading to Cancns hotel zone. Mexico International Travel Information A broader range of states fall into the second level of travel advisory, which means travel there is relatively safe but youll need to be vigilant. The State Departmentalso warns that crime aggressive panhandling, pick-pocketing, purse-snatching,street robberies, burglaries is a serious concern, particularly in major cities and tourist areas. I hate feeling like Im preaching to the choir but the most important note here is to make sure your children are protected from the sun. If you have a feeling that its better to get out then get out of the taxi, the bar, the whatever. The site also includes precautions travelers can take to avoid pickpocketing or robbery, including using ATMs only in secure locations, hiring reputable private transportation, not wearing expensive jewelry and avoiding deserted, unlit areas. This guide covers all you need to know about the safety and security considerations for a trip to Mexico including Covid and pandemic related concerns, road safety, crime and more. Indeed, the State Department warns that violent crime is a serious problem throughout Jamaica, particularly in Kingston and Montego Bay. A number of recent security incidents have raised concerns about the risks of traveling to Mexico, where more than 20 million tourists flew last year to visit the countrys beaches, cities and archaeological sites, or to obtain health care. Planning a safe trip to Mexico can seem quite overwhelming. As of early March, the department had issued its strongest possible warning Level 4: Do Not Travel for six states, including Tamaulipas and Sinaloa. A spasm of violence at the end of 2021 and early 2022 rattled the tourist industry along the Riviera Maya, the 80-mile strip of Caribbean resorts south of Cancn. If you want to travel solo in Mexico, you absolutely can, but you must take some extra precautions. Here are some ideas to consider: Merida is the largest city in Yucatn State, and a great base for day trips in the area. Regardless of popular belief, Mexico is a safe destination to travel alone. Overall, OSAC advises that travelers exercise caution when identifying themselves as part of the LGBTQ+ community in public in Mexico. US Embassy address: Petty theft. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Theres also animals on the road, vehicles driving with no lights, etc. If January's international flight arrivals are any indication, the risks associated with travel to parts of Mexico aren't keeping visitors away from the country as a whole. (2023 Update) Many of these involve fake tour agencies or tickets avoid them by using a reputable agent youre chosen based on good customer feedback. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). When Climate Change Activism Becomes More Dangerous Than Climate Change, It's OK to Shout Fire on a Crowded, Burning, Planet, Do Presidential Candidates Get Secret Service? Credit and bank card fraud can be a problem in Mexico and tourists may be victims. But no matter what horror stories people want to share about Mexico, its absolutely possible to visit Mexico and have a safe nay FANTASTIC trip. Mexico has many gems, so theres no reason to visit no-go areas. Cheap companies never enforce basic safety rules and the Andes are a notoriously dangerous place to drive. People will be warm and welcoming. ABSOLUTELY. Its best just to not get on the wrong side of them. Yes, travelling alone in Mexico is safe. Typically crime and kidnappings are the reasons for these warnings, too. If you're uncomfortable, try to get away from the situation or environment immediately, says Lopez-Aranda. Between the pandemic, cultural divisions, and a click-bait media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism. You can also enrol in the US governments Smart Traveler program to get updates and safety information when you travel. A tour company to take you from city to city is a great idea choose one with door-to-door service. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Then, in late February, one gang moved into the city to wrest control of drug sales from another, said Eduardo Guerrero, the director of Lantia Intelligence, a security consulting company in Mexico City. The rest of the advisories list "crime" as the reason to either not travel, reconsider or exercise caution. Family-run guesthouses can be lovely places to stay. If youre thinking to visit Mexico with your family or even as a solo female traveller, you have every potential for an incredible trip. May 22 - CDC Issues Travel Warning For Medical Tourism In Mexico Following the identification of patients diagnosed with fungal meningitis infections after undergoing medical procedures in Matamoros, Mexico, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a travel advisory. Mexico City comes in with a Level 2 advisory that means travelers should exercise increased caution when visiting, because of possible crime and kidnapping. Conservative dress is critical in less urban areas. There is certainly cause for concern but that doesnt mean you should cancel all travel plans.. Be smart and stay aware of your surroundings and you should have a safe experience. Avoid flashing jewelry or other valuables; wear costume jewelry you wouldnt miss too much and go for a less is more aesthetic. Why its so dangerous: Second on the list is this exotic North Africa country where theres highpotential for terrorist violence against U.S. citizens, according to theState Department. You might be wondering whether it is safe to travel to Mexico right now because of Covid. hile Mexico didnt makethe top 10 list, it still raises concern with people like Julia Pond, Trip by Skyscanners editorial director, who shared her insight on how to stay safe, whether youre in Mexico or any of the placeson the list. In the Trip by Skyscanner survey, some women noted that Egyptian men can be aggressive, especially in crowded markets. Soon after the Americans crossed the border, gunmen fired on their vehicle and then abducted the group in a pickup truck. They will detail the exact places not recommended and where you should reconsider travel. Here is some advice and top tips: Lastly, and most importantly, remember that no is a full sentence. document.getElementById("ak_js_2").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); Is Mexico Safe for Travel? What happened to Carlee Russell and when did she return home | CNN Safe area to stay Jun 23, 2023. Why its so dangerous: The State Department warnsthat the threat of violent crime in Guatemala is critical. Is it actually safe to visit? The best way to deal is to ignore the person and keep moving. The northern state of Tamaulipas is home to Matamoros, which is just across the Rio Grande from Brownsville, Texas. However,the State Department still says that crime (pickpocketing, robbery, hotel room theft),express kidnappings, sexual assaults and rape are big issues here. Is It Safe To Travel To Mexico Right Now? Salt & Wind Travel Please consider the State Department has issued a Level 4 Do NOT Travel advisory for parts of Mexico. Trip by Skyscannersadvicefor howto stay safe: Why its so dangerous: India is a Trip by Skyscanner favorite destination for solo female travelers and one of the most complex, with wide variations across regions, says Pond. reputation for many, many other things. Americans are advised not to travel to six Mexican statesColima, Guerro, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecasbecause of the risk of crime and kidnapping. get licensed cabs, use an app, or ask your hotel for help. With views like this, its no wonder travelers, flock to Mexico. Protecting citizens is our most important role. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock). That doesnt mean you shouldnt be aware of the risk of violent crime. "I mean, there's just so few incidents where foreign tourists are victims of violence and particularly homicide. Find all the things you cant miss in Cancn in this handy guide. The information present in this safety guide is as accurate as possible at the time of writing. Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations, the alert said. "It is important that you share all plans with friends and family at home. Yes! Is It Safe To Travel To Mexico In 2019? - Forbes He recommends making a copy of your passport, remaining alert while walking home at night and not leaving your drinks unattended. The information present in this safety guide is as accurate as possible at the time of writing. This publication is provided for general information purposes only and is not intended to cover every aspect of the topics with which it deals. Wear long, loose clothing that covers your shoulders. March 7, 2022 Event: Travel Advisory Update for Mexico (U.S. Embassy Mexico City - March 7, 2022) Location: Mexico Reconsider travel to Mexico due to COVID-19. In August, gunmen positioned burning cars and buses to block roads around Guadalajara in response to a military raid on a meeting of criminal bosses.
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