is it safe to travel to mexico alone

However, the picture is changing fairly rapidly so youll need to keep an eye on progress before you make your reservations. 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. The reality is, the less you wear, the more unwanted attention youll attract. As a rule, criminals in Mexico are careful not to kill tourists, Mr. Guerrero explained, because doing so can set in motion a persecution that can last years, the consequences of which can be very dissuasive, he said. Many murders go unsolved, with only 30,800 people being incarcerated in 2013 compared to the 215,000 murders that took place. Taxis are safe in Mexico! Theres lots more ways to stay safe in Mexico City and other popular destinations, coming up in just a moment. Zacatecas state due to crime and kidnapping. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely. That really is a big umbrella term when it comes to the question is Mexico safe?. The Solo Female Traveler's Guide to Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula Wise keeps your money safe. Mr. de Hail also suggests buying travel insurance in case of a medical emergency or theft, and recommends that tourists keep a low profile to avoid attracting attention, he said, warning that it is easy to misread situations. Mexico gets a undeserved bad reputation for travel, particularly in the United States. While public attitudes are gradually becoming more accepting, there were reports of discrimination based on sexual orientation and personal identity, which can escalate into aggression. Why its so dangerous: Popular resorts are fairly safe but traveling beyond those borders will mean dealing with unwanted attention, says Pond. At the moment, nearly 50% of Mexican citizens have received their Covid vaccinations. The tastes, smells, sights, and sounds of Mexico are irresistible. Is it safe for a woman to travel alone in Mexico? Wear long, loose clothing that covers your shoulders. A spate of incidents, including a kidnapping and the death of two Americans near the border, have prompted travel warnings from the U.S. government. This is agreat place for using a cross-body bag, but also not a destination where you have to be overly concerned about covering up. Gang warfare is basically just that: violence between gangs. I consent to my personal information being processed in accordance with The Broke Backpackers. Before booking your trip to Mexico and before travelling, check your countries travel advice. No matter where youre traveling, Trip by Skyscanners Julia Pond has tipsfor how to stay safe: Always, always follow your instincts. get licensed cabs, use an app, or ask your hotel for help. Well also touch briefly on how you can use a Wise Multi-currency Account to cut the costs of currency exchange when you travel to Mexico and keep your money safe at the same time. Morocco was the second-most dangerous place on the, Jamaica may look beautiful, but its wise to be. If you want to see the latest list of most dangerouscountries from 2019,check out20 Most Dangerous Places For Women Travelers., Why its so dangerous: This country topped the Tripby Skyscanner list of dangerous places, and the U.S. Department of State has issued a stern warning totravelersabout going to Egypt:A number of terrorist groups, including ISIS, have committed multiple deadly attacks in Egypt, targeting government officials and security forces, public venues, tourist sites, civil aviation and other modes of public transportation, and a diplomatic facility. But Pond doesnt advise avoiding the country entirely. Here are some ideas to consider: Merida is the largest city in Yucatn State, and a great base for day trips in the area. They offer simple & flexible travel insurance, and safety advice to help you travel confidently. 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.". Listen to trusted locals for advice on best neighborhoods. Youll be able to see cobblestone streets and stately old buildings, as well as enjoying quiet beaches. It isnt just murder; robbery, extortion, and kidnapping have all grown in recent years. Journey Mexico has more than 50 employees based in the country who are always monitoring for potential risk, Rabinor said. The sun really is not something to mess around with here. Always keep your valuables on you dont put any in the stowed luggage compartment. The problem really is what people consider as dangerous. Many of these involve fake tour agencies or tickets avoid them by using a reputable agent youre chosen based on good customer feedback. Use this as a starting point to plan your trip to Mexico and you can be sure youll have a safe and enjoyable time. "To put things in perspective, Matamoros is about 1,360 miles away from Cancun; that's about the equivalent distance from the Texas side of the border to Chicago, Illinois," said Rabinor, whose company creates tailored luxury trips. Some women in the Trip by Skyscanner survey preferred to sign up for a private or small group tour, at least at the beginning of their trip. "We have no greater priority than the safety of our citizensthis is the US government's most fundamental role," Salazar said in a statement. Much of this is due to the cable news environment with its exaggerated narratives that Mexico is full of drug cartels and murderers. Dont skimp on inter-city bus tickets. 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? RFK Jr. pic.twitter.com/TwBSmHSVZv, The advisories come as American are making travel plans to escape winter weather. 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. Ive covered the main safety concerns already, but there is plenty more information on how to have a safe trip to Mexico. We do not represent World Nomads. The illegal drug trade has too despite work on the governments part. The Americans were taken from the scene by armed men, the FBI said. A spate of incidents, including a kidnapping and the death of two Americans near the border, have prompted travel warnings from. 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. 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 . Is Mexico Safe to Travel Alone? Stay away from the areas that are known for trouble and youll have a great trip. 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. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Unless youre looking for trouble in Mexico, it shouldnt come looking for you. Although, Im going to suggest that you still maintain the same level of caution as you would anywhere else. The tap water in Mexico is of variable quality. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); The quick answer to that question is yes. Drug-related crimes mainly involve (but not limited to) the northern states. Exercise normal precautions, even go a little overboard if it makes you feel better. The question of "Is Mexico Safe?" will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. With drug cartel violence, is it safe to travel to Mexico? Security But Trip by Skyscanner users included it on the list for many of the same reasons that the State Department lists in its warningsabout travel here, including violence linked to domestic insurgency, narco-trafficking, crime and kidnapping that can occur in some rural and urban areas. The odds are better youll encounter someone who might be willing and able to help you.. Theres lots of helpful advice and up to date information on government backed resources such as the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) website, too. Trip by Skyscannersadvicefor how to stay safe: Why its so dangerous: Most Trip by Skyscanner women found Ecuador to be fairly safe as compared to other destinations on our list and a place where people are friendly and supportive of tourism, says Pond. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. Safety and security - Mexico travel advice - GOV.UK Sinaloa state due to crime and kidnapping Tamaulipas state due to crime and kidnapping. 10 Most Dangerous Places For Women Travelers (And How To Stay Safe) Its important to work with your own comfort levels. The more reputable ones cost a bit more but are safer (they check passengers for weapons at boarding) and more comfortable (reclining seats!). Is Playa del Carmen Safe for Travelers? | Safety in PDC Mexico (2023) The success in tamping down drug violence in Quintana Roo follows a similar improvement in Los Cabos a couple of years ago when U.S. authorities also collaborated with local officials in the state of Baja California Sur. If you're uncomfortable, try to get away from the situation or environment immediately, says Lopez-Aranda. Read the Department of State's COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. In this guest post, Kristin Addis from Be My Travel Muse shares her safety tips and advice to help you navigate Mexico with confidence as a solo female traveler. He recommends making a copy of your passport, remaining alert while walking home at night and not leaving your drinks unattended. If taking the train, purchase the highest-class train tickets in advance and take women-only transportation options in cities like Delhi. But this latest warning is particularly noteworthy, as the incidents that prompteditimpacted a number ofwomenand underscored the importance of safety for female travelers, whether theyre on vacation or a businesstripin Mexico or anywhere in the world. Former FBI agent Jennifer Coffindaffer told NewsNation that the area is "volatile" because of drug cartels fighting over territory. Id always encourage travelers to ride their own edge whether thats a solo trip to Paris or Bangladesh.. You should know the score when it comes to. Many toll roads and roads in urban centres are of a high quality, but marginalized areas may not have the best roads which can cause accidents and delays. READ MORE: Ranked: The 20 Most Dangerous Places to Live. I have had numerous cases of people asking for help because they were extorted coming back from bars, he said. Trust your gut Journey Mexico links to the US State Department advisories on its website, as well as travel guidance for the citizens of other countries including the United Kingdom and Australia. That doesnt mean you shouldnt be aware of the risk of violent crime. Tourist destinations dont see the same level of crime that other parts of the country experience; the local authorities are working to keep, at the very least, these popular areas and neighborhoods of Mexico open for business. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Warring drug cartels have resulted in a high (and increasing) murder rate and violence. The US State Department uses a 4 point scale to rate the safety of overseas destinations. Remain vigilant at all times, respect local authorities, stick to tourist destinations, and dont get involved with Mexican drug cartels. Is it safe to travel to Mexico? What to know ahead of spring break. - MSN Uber has been challenging the taxi unions for the right to operate in Cancn and won a court decision in its favor on Jan. 11. I want to share some love for my Mexican brothers and sisters who dont deserve the bad reputation that the country generally holds. Especially in remote areas, these are not always official and will demand cash in exchange for being able to pass. It wont be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. Staying safe: US tourists warned about popular Mexico spots plagued by drug cartel intimidation, violence. Mexico is a great destination for solo female travellers. careful when traveling to this Caribbean island, especially when you go beyond tourist resorts. If in a group, designate one person, or even a couple of people, to avoid drinking and keep an eye out for anything unusual. All rights reserved. Here, we listthe 10 most dangerous places for solo female travelers , according to Trip by Skyscanner, details from the U.S. State Department about safety concerns, as well as tips for how to protect yourself while traveling. If youre thinking to visit Mexico with your family or even as a solo female traveller, you have every potential for an incredible trip. Yes, Mexico is a safe country to live in. Street crime is still a problem almost everywhere, especially in bigger cities and crowded spaces. "Crime and kidnapping" is listed as the cause for advisories in some states in each of those three categories, including Tamaulipas. However, these are safer to use than roads not on the main highway. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. It is key to respect local dress norms in Egypt and avoid attracting attention: Cover your shoulders and knees. Some are corrupt; your best avenue for help may be your local embassy or consulate, says Pond. The U.S. State Department provides state-by-state information about travel risks in Mexico. Well, yes, it can be too. Though it is a very different experience. This is not what Mexico is actually like. Quintana Roo and Baja California Sur are at Level 2, indicating that visitors should exercise increased caution. Solo travel in Mexico can make one feel very vulnerable at times though that goes for anywhere, especially in Latin America. Hitchhiking is an inherently risky way of getting around its best avoided in Mexico. The culture can be homophobic; if youre traveling with your girlfriend, be very discreet. Is it safe to travel to Mexico? Here's what you need to know As an affiliate, I receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. Reconsider Travel To: Baja California state due to crime and kidnapping. Is It Safe To Travel To Mexico Right Now? Salt & Wind Travel Its important to remember that even in countries with political problems or issues with violence, danger is not a 100% guarantee. Save money on currency conversion and keep your travel money safe with Wise. The Ultimate Paid Time Off: 17 Companies That Will Give You Money To Travel, Ranked: The 20 Most Dangerous Places to Live, Bucket List Travel: The Top 50 Places In The World, Why You Should Skip Iceland And Go To These 9 Under-the-Radar Places. In the other states, the program is sponsored by Community Federal Savings Bank, to which we're a service provider. The 2020 OSAC report noted that acceptance and openness to the LGBTQ+ community was greater in urban centres, with more conservative attitudes in rural parts of the country. Again, some places are much safer than others and it is a different experience than simply visiting Mexico. Col. Cuauhtmoc, Mexico, D.F. Remember, you are a guest when you are travelling in Mexico. Bus travel allows people to hop on and off so make sure you keep an eye on your valuables. 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. Here is some advice and top tips: Lastly, and most importantly, remember that no is a full sentence. Then theres traveling around the country itself. Its not foolproof protection but it can slow someone down just enough for you to alert others you need help or find an escape route, says Pond. Colourful art, soulful music, elaborate food, rich history So before people consider travelling to Mexico, they end up asking themselves (or the internet), Though, granted, its not just a place you can drop into unannounced and expect everything to be hunky dory. "Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations," the advisory warns. Whether or not driving is safe in Mexico will depend a lot on where you are going. Even if you speak Spanish, pretend you dont when approached by strangers who set off your internal alarm bells. With views like this, its no wonder travelers, flock to Mexico. If you have a feeling that its better to get out then get out of the taxi, the bar, the whatever. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock), Here, we listthe 10 most dangerous places for solo female travelers. The kidnapping and killing of US travelers this week in the Mexican city of Matamoros, just over the border from Brownsville, Texas, has put a glaring spotlight on violence in a country that millions of international visitors flock to each year. Re: 25 Yr old woman going to Mexico City alone. Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, including in popular tourist destinations, the alert said. 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. "It is relatively safe for travelers to head to tourist destinations and major urban centers such as Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey," Lopez-Aranda told CNN Travel. Hurricane season and earthquakes really are up to Mother Earth. A report from NewsNation Now found that more than 30 million U.S. citizens traveled to Mexico in the first 11 months of 2022. At the end of the day, Mexican people are friendly, family-oriented, religious, fun-loving, helpful, and open. Its not the first warning about travel to Mexico: In December 2016, the government cautionedtravelers about going to almost half of the countrysstates some of which are home topopular vacation areas like Los Cabos and Acapulco because ofviolence and crime. Again, before people start losing it in the comments, Ive done it. Why its so dangerous:Armed robberies, express kidnappings, carjackings, petty theftand credit card fraud top the list of State Department concerns in this South American country known forMachu Picchu and the Inca Trail. People will be warm and welcoming. Consider not drinking at all or only drinking only from sealed bottles you inspect yourself. Do this and youll be getting around with no trouble at all. Though Im not going to encourage anything without good, solid research. 06500, US Embassy telephone: Highway buses (camiones) are safe in Mexico, easy to get, and are run by reputable bus companies. The citys police force has been successful in reducing violent crime, particularly homicides, and the number of killings has been cut almost in half over the past three years. In just a moment. (I would hope that last one really is common sense but hey, covering all bases.). But even in less dangerous places, there have been recent examples of crimes against travelers. Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023. Be mindful of local conditions and culture, especially if you are traveling alone, and contact the American Citizens Services unit at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate with concerns . Heres What You Need to Know. And Sinaloa is where the arrest of Ovidio Guzmn . You might be wondering whether it is safe to travel to Mexico right now because of Covid. The Americans were attacked as a result of confusion, according to Irving Barrios, the state prosecutor in Tamaulipas. One of the Americans was scheduled for cosmetic surgery. Unfortunately, yes, there are some things that women should be aware of before they start their travel to Mexico. They have generally low crime rates. As in almost every country, there are areas that are better avoided if you want to have a safe trip. With that, is Mexico safe to visit right now? Get up to date advice and information from the US Embassy in Mexico, and the Mexico country page on the State Department website. For a start, youre less likely to be travelling through the rougher and less trodden paths that backpackers would be taking. The stock image wouldn't lie now, would it? If you use this guide, do your own research, andpractise common sense, you will have a safe trip to Mexico. For travel in Mexico, Lopez-Aranda says precautions could include: Traveling with a trusted driver in a private vehicle Traveling only in daylight hours outside urban centers or in higher-risk locations Avoiding trouble spots in major cities Avoiding traveling alone Staying up-to-date through news and government alerts Making sure your mobile device is charged. Ive spent years now travelling Mexico safely. The advisories come as four Americans were kidnapped in Tamaulipas on Friday. Solo trip to Mexico: a complete guide for safety and fun - Worldpackers Though Mexico has a good reputation for many, many other things. The best way to deal is to ignore the person and keep moving. In October, a local politician was shot and killed in an upscale steakhouse in suburban Guadalajara as terrified diners crawled to safety. For the sake of caution, I suggest not putting them on your Mexico itinerary. Update 03/08/23, 11:30 a.m. The U.S. Embassy has received multiple reports indicating tourists have been robbed at gunpoint or knifepoint in tourist locations in the downtown areas of Nassau; several of these incidents occurred during daylight hours, says the State Department. Turmoil among taxi drivers in Cancn. Mexico has many gems, so theres no reason to visit no-go areas. However, when it comes to health and security, in some places women travelers may face additional risk. But as long as you stay in your lane, mind your business, and practice caution, you should have no problem. In certain states (some of which are home to popular resortareas), the State Department warns that U.S. citizens have been the victims of violent crimes, including homicide, kidnapping, carjacking and robbery. This shows no signs of slowing down, with murder rates in Mexico increasing as of 2020. Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe! World Nomads mission is to support and encourage travellers to explore their boundaries. Turkey, one of the top 10 most dangerous places. As of early March, the department had issued its strongest possible warning Level 4: Do Not Travel for six states, including Tamaulipas and Sinaloa. 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. Based on a survey of Trip by Skyscanner users, the list comprises the lowest rated countries. The map above shows the advisory level for each Mexican state. Crime and kidnapping are the words thrown around a lot when referring to safety in Mexico. And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. 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. 1. 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. Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. Healthcare facilities in cities are excellent but its worth knowing that rural areas tend to have more basic facilities, and slower emergency service response times.