Mexico

Mexicohttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexicoMexicohttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-it-safe-to-camp-in-mexicoWith last May's horrific instance of violence still on people's minds, it's fair for travelers to wonder whether camping in Mexico is a good idea. Former drug war correspondent Joe Furey shares his tips on places to avoid, and camping spots he still recommends.2024-06-06T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-it-safe-to-camp-in-mexicohttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Travelers to Mexico were shocked by the news of three surfers (two Australians and one American) being found, killed and their bodies dumped, in Ensenada, <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-baja-california-safe">Baja California</a>, in May 2024. They were shot after refusing to surrender their truck to thieves thought to have a connection to organized crime.</p> <p>Understandably, this has raised specific concerns about the security of surf spots along the Pacific coast of Mexico and the safety of campers generally. I have toured most of Mexico in a variety of vehicles, and I have always camped where there has been wilderness to explore. So, it’s with this in mind that I have researched the state of camping in Mexico right now.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#safe">Is it safe to camp in Mexico? </a></li> <li><a href="#free">What about free camping?</a></li> <li><a href="#tips">General safety tips for camping in Mexico</a></li> <li><a href="#best">Best places to camp in Mexico</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="safe">Is it safe to camp in Mexico?</h2> <p>We all know there is danger, but it’s not spread evenly throughout the country. Cartel violence bedevils a lot of states. The worst affected, from a tourist perspective, are those whose territory – from supply lines to manufacturing centres – is being contested in headline-grabbing fashion. These are states at war, effectively.</p> <p>However, cartel-run states, like Sinaloa, where the war has been won within its own boundaries, at least for now, are relatively stable. The better organized the crime, the more diversified the ruling cartel’s business interests, and some cartels have invested heavily in tourism. They would rather not throw a cash cow on the barbecue.</p> <p>As of now, I wouldn’t support camping in Jalisco, where the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) is rapidly expanding; Michoacán, due to frequent clashes between La Familia Michoacana and CJNG; Zacatecas and southern Guanajuato, which the CJNG has moved in on; Chihuahua, where the Juárez Cartel is still fighting for control of one Mexico’s most lucrative smuggling corridors (the Copper Canyon is safer, yet still precarious); and Tamaulipas, which the Gulf and Northeast Cartels have turned into a shooting gallery.</p> <p>If you want to check for yourself where turf wars are being fought to ugly outcomes, <a href="https://brilliantmaps.com/map-of-drug-cartels-in-mexico-2024/" target="_blank">Brilliant Maps</a> and the Bureau of Consular Affairs’ <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mexico-travel-advisory.html" target="_blank">Mexico Travel Advisory</a> are valuable resources.</p> <p>If you don’t keep track of the news, and cartel movements aren’t a professional consideration to you, as they are to me, you can judge the safety of an area by the number of campers using it. Though strict security protocols – fenced perimeters, 24-hour surveillance – may suggest a fortress to keep out invaders, they are standard nowadays. Such campgrounds are usually privately run, and their services and amenities excellent, but they don’t come cheap and they tend to be crowded.</p> <p>In more rural areas, the protocols are relaxed, the amenities basic and the sites less thronged, though many are in tourist areas of great natural beauty. They are typically run by small communities – <em>ejidos</em> – and, as they are a major source of income, protected as best as the community can manage.</p> <h2 id="free">What about free camping?</h2> <p>It is strictly unrecommended, unless you’ve asked a local – preferably one who’s known to you – for advice, or a landowner for permission. As part of your preparations for travel, join an online camping community for tips and to befriend people on the ground. The main issue with free camping is your exposure to opportunist thieves and the possibility of trespassing on private land. You do not want to cap off your adventures with a hunting rifle in your face.</p> <p>The other issue is isolation. Scenic often means remote, so should an accident befall you – a fall, some vehicular trouble, a snake bite – you may not have cellular coverage and then not happen across another human being for days. If you must free camp, seek out those places where it’s popular, such as <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/cancun-other-places-to-stay-visit">Yucatan</a>, Campeche, Hidalgo, Nayarit, and Baja California Sur, but be aware that you’d be one of many presumably wealthier-than-the-average-Mexican tourists, and not getting robbed is a numbers game.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/mexico/camping/sierra-gorda.jpg" alt="A camper looks out the door of his tent onto the Sierra Gorda rock formations in Mexico." /> <figcaption>Statistically speaking, Sierra Gorda biosphere reserve is one of the safest places to camp in Mexico. Image credit: Getty Images / ferrantraite</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="tips">General safety tips for camping in Mexico</h2> <ol> <li>Prepare to camp under any conditions. Assuming you’ve done your research and got all the necessary permissions, remember that Mexican weather can be unpredictable, and camp with this in mind – tropical storms and shifting topography can throw surprises at the most seasoned of campers.</li> <li>Don’t travel when you might be the only car on the road – early in the morning or late at night.</li> <li>Keep your emergency/first-aid kit portably light so you’re not tempted to leave it in your vehicle if you intend to go hiking – that’s when you’ll need it most.</li> <li>Keep your travel documents in a safe, dry place.</li> <li>Adhere to local regulations and respect local customs.</li> </ol> <h2 id="best">Best places to camp in Mexico</h2> <p>Having pointed out the dangers at length, let us end this article on a happy note. Or series of notes. There are plenty of camping destinations that are settled (I prefer that word to “safe”), have space for RVs and campers and a lot to recommend them besides.</p> <p>Bahía Concepción, in <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/southern-baja-beyond-los-cabos">Baja California Sur,</a> has warm welcomes, sandy coves, the blue-green waters of the <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/kayaking-in-loreto-bay">Sea of Cortez</a>, little or no surrounding development, and you can even snorkel with whale sharks there – and don’t worry, they feed on plankton, not tourists.</p> <p>Valle de Bravo, a <em>pueblo mágico</em> in the State of Mexico, set among thickly wooded, mist-cloaked hills, is almost impossibly charming; and there’s splendid camping to be had there, by its lake. A favorite with the capital’s well-heeled, Valle, as it’s known locally, has a range of campsites to meet most budgets, and their safety is all but assured. While away your time boating, paragliding, and horseback riding.</p> <p>Now, you can’t camp within the strikingly beautiful Sumidero Canyon National Park, in Chiapas, which is home to the endangered spider monkey, jaguarundi, ocelot, lowland paca, and river crocodile, but you can bed down at Chiapa de Corzo, where you can book tours of the canyon, which is well patrolled by park rangers.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/mexico/camping/sumidero-canyon.jpg" alt="High cliffs rise above the river in Sumidero Canyon, Chiapas, Mexico." /> <figcaption>Spectacular Sumidero Canyon in Chiapas. Image credit: Ellen Hall</figcaption></figure> <p>If we’re going down the wholly statistical route, Yucatan, Campeche, and Tlaxcala are also among Mexico’s safest states, as is Querétaro, whose Sierra Gorda biosphere reserve is simply begging to be camped, though it has serious competition in the waterfalls, rivers, and caves of La Huasteca Potosina, a diamond of many carats in the crown of San Luis Potosí.</p>John Elk 1148747569 Getty Images A beach campground in Bahía Concepción, Baja California Sur, Mexico.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-tijuana-safe-travel-safety-tipsThis busy city on the border of Mexico and the US has a reputation for violent crime, but just how dangerous it? Joe Furey offers a balanced view of the risks, along with his tips for avoiding trouble.2021-05-06T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-tijuana-safe-travel-safety-tipshttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Tijuana is Mexico’s sixth biggest city and, according to the country’s 2020 census, its fastest growing. But to describe it in a strictly Mexican context is to misrepresent it.</p> <p>With San Diego, it’s part of a transnational metropolitan region with a population of around five million – and the border between these two international sister cities is the busiest land crossing in the world. But despite its often negative border-town reputation as a “city of migrants”, Tijuana has carved out a <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/border-towns-the-real-story">new identity</a> as a serious foodie destination, and its reputation for gourmet food, drawing on culinary influences from across the Americas, has fostered a <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/the-rebirth-of-baja-norte">general creative buzz</a>, inspiring a generation of artists, photographers, ceramicists, writers and filmmakers to stay in their city, and a great many creatives from the US to move there.</p> <p>Tijuana often makes the news for the wrong reasons and is the subject of countless scare stories, so as a former drug war correspondent, I hope to disentangle fact from fiction and offer a balanced view of a city I love and am happy to recommend to visitors who are smart enough to take advice.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#crime">Violent crime in Tijuana </a></li> <li><a href="#drugs">Drugs and drug cartels</a></li> <li><a href="#scams">Common scams </a></li> <li><a href="#transport">Transport </a></li> <li><a href="#corruption">Corruption in Tijuana</a></li> <li><a href="#lbgtq">LBGTQ+ traveler safety</a></li> <li><a href="#border"> Crossing the border from the US </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="crime">Violent crime in Tijuana</h2> <p>Tijuana closed out 2022 with approximately 2,000 murders. Though the figures are frightening, as the writer Mark Twain put it, there are “lies, damned lies, and statistics”. A closer, detailed look at the stats reveals not a city in a state of siege by organized crime, but, particularly in the east, a number of poor neighborhoods in the vise-grip of drugs: their sale, their consumption and their gang rivalries. Accept no invitations to house parties in Sánchez Taboada, Reforma, Camino Verde, and, farther out, Mariano Matamoros.</p> <p>The rule is, if you’re looking for trouble in Tijuana, it will find you first, and a beefed-up police presence, as you’ll encounter in Zonas Centro (the main tourist area) and Norte, is no insurance against events taking a turn for the worse. Zona Norte, Tijuana’s red-light district, is a case in point. Prostitution is legal in this “zone of tolerance” but be aware that brothels often pose as strip or hostess clubs, and that the <em>paraditas</em> (“standing girls”) advertising their services in Callejon Coahuila generally have muscle lying in wait. For those taking insufficient precautions, <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/nightlife-in-mexico">drink-spiking</a>, sexual assault, robbery with menaces, muggings, and kidnappings (usually of people spending with obvious abandon) are not uncommon. However, a sense of proportion obliges me to say that that would be true of any city with a relaxed attitude to vice.</p> <p>US travel advisories have recently warned against traveling to Tijuana – and they have had their own motives for doing so (keeping tourism in-country, for one).</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/mexico/tijuana-red-light-district-getty-1138576793.jpg" alt="A street in the red light district in central Tijuana." /> <figcaption>A street in the red light district in central Tijuana. Image credit: Getty Images / Photo Beto</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="drugs">Drugs and drug cartels</h2> <p>While much of the violence in Tijuana in the past 20 years was down to a turf war between drug cartels trying to secure one of the most lucrative cocaine smuggling corridors into the United States, the violence of late has been more localized, as street gangs vie for control of depressed neighborhood blocks to sell crystal meth and heroin to residents. This activity is easier for tourists to avoid, but the desperate have a habit of showing up where they’re not wanted. Having said that, in all the considerable time I’ve spent with friends in Tijuana’s tourist-friendly areas – Zonas Rio, Cacho, and the well-lit parts of Centro, green Chapultepec, and Playas de Tijuana – I’ve not witnessed a single incident that would make someone so much as <em>stroll</em> for cover.</p> <p>At night, if in doubt, stick to well-lit streets, and if you’re going somewhere unfamiliar, jot a map of it on a piece of paper – not everyone who consults their phone on the street gets it stolen, but it’s a safe bet that those who have had their phone stolen on the street were using it and looking lost.</p> <h2 id="scams">Common scams</h2> <p>If you’re on foot, don’t walk from the border to downtown Tijuana after dark. The shadows hold their share of drunks, addicts, beggars, and chancers (in the mistaken belief that Americans will have brought all the money they might need over the border). Plus, a <em>colectivo</em> (local shared minibus) costs practically nothing, you’ll have company, and you won’t be overcharged (which is more likely in a yellow cab than in a white Taxi Libre, but either way you should insist that your driver uses the meter).</p> <p>Don’t engage with strangers in the street, however hard their luck sounds. Just think – why would a Tijuanan ask you, a foreigner without any local knowledge, to help them? People claiming to be lost or to have been robbed or raped, are rarely telling the truth or operating alone (pickpockets tend to be double acts). Look for groups of other visitors, and wave to them as though they’re family, whether they see you or not – con artists don’t like to be outnumbered.</p> <p>Carry your cards and cash in a money belt, and keep a decoy wallet handy in case of muggings. A few dollars and some dead cards will be enough to satisfy a thief, who won’t hang around to check the viability of the cards.</p> <h2 id="transport">Transport</h2> <p>Taxi drivers in Tijuana aren’t averse to scamming, so Uber might be your best bet for a haggle- and hassle-free ride. Also, when taxis are held up – rare but not unheard of – their drivers are often in on it, so if you do take one, don’t hail it from the street.</p> <p>Another good option is to use your own vehicle. One of the great advantages of driving into Tijuana is that the entire Baja California peninsula is included in the Mexican Free Zone, meaning you don’t have to stump up for a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit and you can drive unimpeded from the city all the way down to Cabo San Luis in Baja California Sur. Do take out Mexican car insurance, though.</p> <h2 id="corruption">Corruption in Tijuana</h2> <p>The one obstacle to my free-thinking about driving around the Baja is police corruption, which at the municipal and state level, while greatly improved since the bad old days of Felipe Calderón’s presidency, still poses a concern. As reliable figures are hard to come by much of the “evidence” is anecdotal, but I know a couple who were stopped by uniformed officers for trumped-up reasons and invited to bribe their way out of jail.</p> <h2 id="lgbtq">LBGTQ+ traveler safety</h2> <p>Tijuana prides itself on being an “anything goes” city but, despite its twin streaks of Catholic conservatism and machismo culture, Mexico, in toto, has <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/lgbt-mexico-what-you-need-to-know">got behind LGBTQ+ rights</a>. It was the second Latin American country to enact anti-discrimination laws for the LGBTQ+ community and in 2011 the Mexican Constitution was amended to reflect that. Transgender identities are celebrated among the <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/the-muxes-of-juchitan-de-zaragoza">Zapotec people of Oaxaca state</a> and the Yucatán Mayas.</p> <h2 id="border">Crossing the border from the US</h2> <p>Visitors must have valid passports, visas, and a Tourist Migration Form (FMM), a short-term permit that allows for stays of up to 180 days. Expect long waits when crossing back into the US, both by car and on foot.</p>Getty Images / grandriver 11147815538 Getty Images Aerial view of the beach and boardwalk near the international border wall in Tijuana, Mexico.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/video-guide-on-how-to-travel-safely-in-mexicoA drug dealer, travelers and locals offer advice on safety in Mexico. From women’s safety to avoiding theft, find out from the people on the streets of Mexico how to stay safe.2019-09-16T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/video-guide-on-how-to-travel-safely-in-mexicohttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Speaking to a drug dealer, a police officer and locals at the market, Patrick Abboud gets tips and advice on staying safe when traveling around <a href="/explore/guides/mexico-nomads-guide" target="_blank" title="Download our free guide to Mexico">Mexico</a>. He also meets travelers who echo the message from many locals that Mexico, including major cities like <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/4-tips-for-exploring-mexico-city" target="_blank" title="4 Ways to Explore the Charismatic Chaos of Mexico City">Mexico City</a> and <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/mexican-festivals-nomads-favorites#beer" target="_blank" title="Experience Oaxaca Beer Festival">Oaxaca</a>, are as safe as anywhere else in the world. Common-sense advice includes packing light, keeping belongings close by, using a money belt, avoiding the beach at night and letting your friends know where you are going.</p> <h3>Share your tips below!</h3> <br /> <div class="AccordionSection nst-component nst-is-collapsed"><button class="AccordionSection-title nst-toggle">Full transcript of the video</button> <div class="nst-content"> <div class="AccordionSection-inner">Patrick Abboud: Do you think it's safe for tourists to come to Tepito? <br /><br /> Gang Member: No. If they're coming with someone they know, then yes. If not, they'll leave without their camera. Don't come here, saying, "I'm a tourist." With their camera and their sunglasses. I hear people saying, "No! I got robbed right here on the corner." And there they are with their phones. On the actual corner, like this. Looking at your phone there sending Whatsapp messages and the gang watching. <br /><br /> Patrick Abboud: Have you ever felt bad about stealing from tourists? <br /><br /> Gang Member: No. It's a job. As long as you don't look for trouble the town takes you in. It's a good neighborhood. This town is so beautiful. Yes, it's fierce, but we're not thieves. This is a town of workers, sportsmen, singers, artists. <br /><br /> Patrick Abboud: It's the real Mexico City. You've really got to know where you're going. You've got to kind of like do the research, know where you are and what you're surrounded by. You don't realize that you could be crossing through dangerous neighborhoods. A lot of people think Mexico is a very dangerous place to visit as a traveler. You're a policeman. How true is that? <br /><br /> Policeman: The country of Mexico and its states are very safe. 100%. Unfortunately, sometimes on TV, due to the misinformation that news media gives... It's the same as in different parts of the world. Assaults occur, robberies, but Mexico City, the country of Mexico, the state of Oaxaca, are very safe places to visit. Tourists always receive that kind of security, and even more here in the city of Oaxaca, where we are. <br /><br /> Tourist: I think there is a misconception of Mexico as a dangerous place, but really, I don't feel any different here than I would in London. The idea of Mexico is it doesn't really translate into reality. <br /><br /> Local: We have some bad reputation about it, but I don't think it's more dangerous than other cities. <br /><br /> Tourist 2: It's a little bit similar everywhere. I feel quite safe here in Mexico. People are really nice. I left my bag a few times already and people are just running behind you. Like, "Hey, you forgot something". So, and it's not tourists really like Mexico, the locals. Yeah. Mexico City. Like the police are everywhere and they are warning you for like, be safe. Take your bag in front of you. <br /> <br />Local: As a woman, I don't go by myself to places when it is dark. I am very careful about the way I dress. If I am going to be by myself, <br /><br /> Tourist: When I'm asking for the way for example, I’m asking women, not men, most of the time. Why? Why is that? It feels safer. Sometimes you don't, you never know who is in front of you. So sometimes it feels safer to ask a woman and to have the answers from a woman. And it also gives you tips. Sometimes. <br /><br /> Local: You just have to be careful with where you go, know the route, know the time and not give a lot of information about yourself. <br /><br /> Tourist: When I travel, I try and travel just with one backpack and have it small enough that I don't need to put it on top of the bus. So I never lose control of it. You know, I can always have it at my feet. That's the precaution I take is traveling light, the less stuff you have, the less you have to worry about it. I have a padlock. You can make it stick to something in the bus. So that's my number one. So padlock for your case or something? Yeah. On the bus and your valuables in the money belt, under your clothes. Don't go to the beach at night, it's a hotspot for being mugged. <br /><br /> Local: To keep myself safe when I'm traveling I make sure I have apps like Uber, for example, on my phone or in Mexico, the auto app to have like, to be able to check everything. But also that people know where you are.</div> </div> </div>World Nomads 1 World Nomads A drug dealer shares his advice to the video team

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-copper-canyon-safeCopper Canyon (Barrancas del Cobre) is a haven for hiking, biking and adventure. But it's in the middle of drug cartel territory, so is it safe for travelers?2022-06-03T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-copper-canyon-safehttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#is-copper-canyon-safe">Is Copper Canyon safe?</a></li> <li><a href="#hiking">Hiking safety in Copper Canyon</a></li> <li><a href="#train">Is the Copper Canyon Railroad safe?</a></li> <li><a href="#women-safety">Safety for women in Copper Canyon</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="is-copper-canyon-safe">Is Copper Canyon safe?</h2> <p>Drugs are a way of life in the <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/north-america/mexico/copper-canyon-guide">Copper Canyon region</a> of southwest Chihuahua, the country’s largest state, in northern Mexico. Weed and opium poppies, the raw material for heroin, are the cash crops there, grown in the folds of the mountains, and zealously watched over by cartel muscle.</p> <p>The drug trade has led to deforestation in the area, the monopolizing of irrigation sources and the cartels diversifying their criminal portfolio to include illegal logging and wildcat mining, neither of which do they consider a spectator activity.</p> <p>Where the cartels are operating, the indigenous Rarámuri people, for whom the Copper Canyon has been home since records began, have been either displaced, killed or persuaded, for little or no money, to work for the gangs (they are known for their long-distance running ability – “rarámuri” means fleet of foot – and have been used to mule narcotics over the US border).</p> <p>For all its handicraft stores, bars, restaurants and colonial charm, the small town of Creel shouldn’t be taken at face value by tourists. The main hub for the Rarámuri and a stop on the Copper Canyon Railroad, it sits on one of most lucrative drug corridors on the planet (which leads to Ciudad Juárez, the former “murder capital of the world”) and marks a line between the territories of two major criminal organizations: La Línea, which works with the Juárez Cartel; and the Gente Nueva, which works with the Sinaloa Cartel. <br /> <br /> But as with most of the towns in the region, you’ll be fine there so long as you exercise a reasonable degree of caution, especially at night. It’s better to avoid trouble than learn firsthand about how police corruption is something of a specialty of the state of Chihuahua. If driving,</p> <ul> <li>Keep your vehicle doors locked and windows up</li> <li>Avoid driving after dark</li> <li>Stick to the main highways</li> <li>Steer clear of isolated roads.</li> </ul> <p>The towns along the way are relatively safe. Take caution when out at night and avoid withdrawing cash from an ATM. If you have had a bit of a rowdy night at a bar, don't walk back to your accommodation, grab a taxi instead.</p> <p>The local authorities advise avoiding wandering outside in any of the towns at night, and definitely avoid getting involved with illegal activities, such as drugs. Some local guides also advise travelers to avoid taking photos of anyone carrying a gun.</p> <h2 id="hiking">Is it safe to hike Copper Canyon?</h2> <p>Yes and no. Tourists are most assuredly not welcome where cartels do business, of course, but there’s a lot of Canyon to go around – 25,000 square miles of it. Wild, rugged, intensely beautiful and bigger and deeper than the Grand Canyon in the United States, it is hiking heaven. To get the most out of this scenic wonder, a trusted guide is recommended, especially one with knowledge of the native flora and fauna (the Copper Canyon is home to 290 recorded bird <em>species</em>, 24 of which are endemic to the area).</p> <p>Hikers who would rather do without expert assistance should travel in groups, wear plenty of sunscreen (the sun’s rays are stronger at high altitudes), carry as much water as is comfortable and have reliable, up-to-the-minute information as to the safety of their chosen routes, and then stick to those routes. </p> <p>The best time to visit is November to March. June to July is hotter than the sun, and August to September is monsoon season.</p> <h2 id="train">Is the Copper Canyon Railroad safe?</h2> <p>The Copper Canyon Railroad, also known as the <em>Ferrocarril Barrancas del Cobre</em>, the <em>Ferrocarril Chihuahua-Pacifíco</em> and <em>El Chepe</em>, is an engineering marvel and patrolled by armed guards, and yes, it’s safe. If you travel on the Chepe Express (Los Mochis, in Sinaloa, to Creel and vice versa) your journey time will be about nine hours. On the Chepe Regional (Los Mochis to Chihuahua and vice versa), it will be 16. The latter service offers more stops, and you can make three of them at no extra cost (El Fuerte, Bahuichivo and Creel would be my choice).</p> <h2 id="women-safety">Safety for women in Copper Canyon</h2> <p>For women traveling alone, stick to the well-traveled locations.</p> <ul> <li>Travel by train and keep your valuables secure while on the train</li> <li>Stay in tourist-orientated hotels along the main train line</li> <li>Always use a trusted guide, especially if you want to venture off the beaten track.</li> </ul> <p>Common sense usually prevails, so keep your wits about you and your trip should be trouble-free.</p>Getty Images/Arturo Peña Romano Med 1 Getty Images

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/mexico-travel-alerts-warningsWhat are the issues affecting travelers in Mexico? Read the latest travel warnings and alerts.2021-08-24T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/mexico-travel-alerts-warningshttps://www.worldnomads.com<h2>How safe are Mexico's border towns now?</h2> <p>Travel to Mexico does not come without risk and we encourage you to take precautions to ensure your safety. The <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mexico-travel-advisory.html">US State Department</a> lists Mexico as a Level 3 risk for the country overall, advising “exercise increased caution”. Some parts of Mexico have <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mexico-travel-advisory.html">Level 4 advisories</a>, including Colima state, Guerrero state, Michoacán state and Sinaloa state due to crime, as well as Tamaulipas state due to crime and kidnapping.</p> <p>Of the Mexican states listed as Level 4 due to crime and/or kidnapping, only one of them (Tamaulipas) is on the <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/border-towns-the-real-story">US border</a>. Some other border states (Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, Sonora) are at a Level 3.</p> <p>Violence is largely confined to a few areas thanks to the efforts of local authorities, with only the occasional incident occurring near tourist spots. If you participate in the drug trade, the risk to your safety increases considerably.</p> <p><strong><a href="/help/insurance/recent-events/coronavirus-faqs" target="_blank" title="Coronavirus FAQs">Wondering how your travel insurance might be affected by the COVID-19 outbreak? Find answers to some of our common questions about COVID-19</a>.</strong></p> <div class="AccordionSection nst-component nst-is-collapsed"><button class="AccordionSection-title nst-toggle">Tijuana and San Diego Border Closure - November 2018</button> <div class="nst-content"> <div class="AccordionSection-inner"> <h2>Tijuana and San Diego Border Closure – November 2018</h2> <p>US authorities have closed the major border control point of San Ysidro between Tijuana, Mexico and San Diego, United States, turning away all vehicles and pedestrians. Thousands of migrants and refugees have been making their way from Central America towards the US to seek asylum from poverty, political persecution and violence only to be met with tear gas launched by US authorities.</p> <p>San Ysidro is one of the busiest border crossings with nearly 100,000 people and vehicles heading north each day from Mexico.</p> <p>Further demonstrations are also planned for both sides of the border in days to come.</p> <p>Please check with authorities for more information, follow any official warnings and listen to local news reports to monitor the situation. Failure to comply with directives from government authorities will result in you not being covered by travel insurance.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="AccordionSection nst-component nst-is-collapsed"><button class="AccordionSection-title nst-toggle">Hurricane Willa - October 2018</button> <div class="nst-content"> <div class="AccordionSection-inner"> <h2>Hurricane Willa – October 2018</h2> <p>Hurricane Willa gained strength off Mexico's Pacific coast on Sunday and has become a major Category 3 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 115 mph (185kph). The United States National Hurricane Center (NHC) has reported that Will could reach Category 4 status (sustained wind speed between 130-156 mph (209-251kph)) before making an estimated landfall on Tuesday.<br /><br />Tropical Storm Vicente is also tracking from the south towards the same region, however, meteorologists have reported that Willa is likely to prevent Vicente from reaching hurricane status. Both systems will bring torrential rain, damaging winds, landslides, storm surges, and flooding. <br /><br />A hurricane watch has been posted for between San Blas and Mazatlan, however, the systems could also impact popular spots such as Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita, with Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo to experience strong winds from Hurricane Willa. Weather reports indicate that <span>Jalisco, Nayarit and Sinaloa states will experience significant rainfall which could lead to flash flooding and landslides.</span></p> <p>Travelers are advised to listen to local news, heed all warnings and directives from local authorities.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="AccordionSection nst-component nst-is-collapsed"><button class="AccordionSection-title nst-toggle">Security Alert, Playa del Carmen - 7th March 2018</button> <div class="nst-content"> <div class="AccordionSection-inner"> <h2>Security Alert, Playa del Carmen – 7 March, 2018</h2> <p>The US State Department has <a href="https://mx.usembassy.gov/security-alert-u-s-embassy-mexico-city-mexico-march-7-2018-2/">issued a travel warning</a> after receiving information about a security threat in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. <span>While there is no indication that American tourists are being specifically targeted, the agency urges travelers to exercise increased caution due to vio</span>lent crime, as well as a recent explosion on a tourist ferry. They suggest the following actions:</p> <ul> <li>Be aware of your surroundings.</li> <li>Purchase travel insurance that specifically covers you in Mexico and includes medical evacuation insurance.</li> <li>Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate if you need assistance.</li> </ul> <p>The Canadian State Department has also <a href="https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/mexico">issued an alert</a> urging Canadian citizens to exercise a high degree of caution when traveling in Mexico. </p> <p>NOTE: Two days later on 9th March the State Department downgraded the alert and also narrowed the area of concern to five neighborhoods bordered by Avenida Benito Juarez, 50 Avenida Sur (Highway 307), and Calle 34 Norte. The neighborhoods are: Centro, Calica, Gonzalo Guerrero, Quintas del Carmen, and the Villas del Carmen neighborhoods of Playa del Carmen.</p> <p>This area encompasses several popular tourist attractions including; the 3D Museum of Wonders, Riviera Grand Casino, The Beach Aquarium, The Grand Hyatt (along with several other hotels), and Walmart.</p> <p>The ferries to Cozumel leave from a terminal just one block south of this area.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="AccordionSection nst-component nst-is-collapsed"><button class="AccordionSection-title nst-toggle">How to survive a hurricane</button> <div class="nst-content"> <div class="AccordionSection-inner"> <h2>How to Survive a Hurricane</h2> <p>The absolutely best way to survive a hurricane is to avoid one. Get away from it, but if you make the decision to leave make that decision early. Don't leave it until the last minute because you may find yourself caught without proper shelter.</p> <p>If you decide to stay and "ride it out", it's advisable to get to an authorized shelter. The locations of these will be broadcast, or locals will know where they are. If there is no shelter, prepare to "shelter in place" in an internal room without windows.</p> <p>Once a "storm watch" has been issued, make sure you are prepared in the event that the watch becomes a "warning."</p> <ul> <li>Fill the gas tank of your car.</li> <li>Check batteries in flashlights and radios.</li> <li>Have extra batteries on hand.</li> <li>Secure all doors and windows.</li> <li>Close shutters or board up the windows.</li> <li>Have extra supplies on <g class="gr_ gr_152 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar multiReplace" id="152" data-gr-id="152">hand</g> such as non-perishable food, clean drinking water, a half-gallon of water per person/per day (enough for a couple of days), and prescription drugs.</li> </ul> <p><strong>During the storm</strong></p> <ul> <li>Never go out during the storm. The winds can send flying debris into you causing injury and even death.</li> <li>Stay away from windows and doors.</li> <li>Keep on the alert for additional storm warnings. Hurricanes are known to spawn tornadoes so be prepared to take cover if one should strike.</li> <li>While the storm is in progress avoid using electrical appliances.</li> <li>Stay off the telephone.</li> <li>All pets should be secured in carriers. The storm will be a frightening experience for them as well, and they could injure themselves or you if they panic.</li> <li>Do not light candles or lanterns; they could get blown over causing a fire.</li> <li>The eye of the storm passing over could make you think the storm is over when the worst is still yet to come. Only use this calm in an extreme emergency to make critical repairs.</li> <li>Only after an official "all clear" has been issued is it safe to come out.</li> </ul> <p><strong>After the storm</strong></p> <ul> <li>Beware of downed power lines and gas leaks.</li> <li>Stay away from heavily damaged areas.</li> <li>Listen to your radio for instructions.</li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> <div class="AccordionSection nst-component nst-is-collapsed"><button class="AccordionSection-title nst-toggle">How to survive a tsunami</button> <div class="nst-content"> <div class="AccordionSection-inner"> <h2>How to survive a tsunami</h2> <p>What to do when you’re told <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/how-to-survive-a-tsunami" target="_blank">a tsunami is coming - essential safety tips.</a></p> <h2>Am I Covered for a Natural Disaster?</h2> <p>There may be cover for you if you purchased your policy prior to the storm or hurricane being declared, or before the earthquake or tsunami happened. Check your policy or call our <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/contact-us">customer assistance teams</a> if you are unsure.</p> <p>Coverage may vary depending on your place of residence and the level of cover you have purchased. Go to our <a href="https://helpdesk.worldnomads.com" target="_blank">help desk</a> and enter your country of residence then search for "natural disaster" to get an explanation of coverage relevant to you. Still confused, or have questions? Check with our <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/contact-us">customer assistance teams</a>.</p> <h2 id="worldwide-24-hour-emergency-assistance">Worldwide 24-hour Emergency Assistance</h2> <p>Are you a World Nomads customer and need assistance? Please contact the <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/emergencies">emergency contact telephone number</a>.</p> <p>So we can best assist you, please be ready with the following:</p> <ul> <li>Your policy number</li> <li>A contact number for where you are now</li> <li>The nature of your problem</li> <li>If you are ill or injured we will need details of medical consultations you have had</li> </ul> <h2 id="attack">Coverage for Assault or Attack</h2> <p>If you're hurt in a <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-insurance/whats-covered/terrorism">terrorist attack</a> or <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-insurance/whats-covered/assault">criminal assault</a>, there's coverage under most of our policies for:</p> <ul> <li> <p>Hospitalization</p> </li> <li> <p>Emergency out-patient treatment</p> </li> <li> <p>Medical transportation to bring you home</p> </li> </ul> <p>Bear in mind that some policies will not cover you if you are traveling to a county your government has warned you not to visit.</p> </div> </div> </div>Getty Images/John Coletti 1638921947 Getty Images The Mexican flag flies over the Zocalo, the main square in Mexico City

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/puerto-vallarta-safety-guideIs it safe to visit Sayulita, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, Acapulco and Oaxaca? Here are our top safety tips for your trip to Mexico's Pacific Coast.2024-01-29T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/puerto-vallarta-safety-guidehttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Mexico’s Pacific coast, from Mazatlan, in Sinaloa, to the state of Oaxaca, in the southwest of the country, has a lot to offer tourists. But how safe is this stretch of more than 1,200 miles (1,930km)? Here's the latest information.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#mazatlan">Is Mazatlan safe to visit?</a></li> <li><a href="#sayulita">Is Sayulita safe to visit?</a></li> <li><a href="#vallarta">Is Puerto Vallarta safe to visit?</a></li> <li><a href="#acapulco">Is Acapulco safe to visit?</a></li> <li><a href="#oaxaca">Is Oaxaca safe to visit?</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="mazatlan">Is Mazatlan safe to visit?</h2> <p>Though it’s in the state of Sinaloa, which gives its name to the oldest and most powerful criminal organization in Mexico, Mazatlan is the only part of the state that doesn’t come with a government travel warning.</p> <p>With 12 miles (20km) of sandy beaches, the city was, like Acapulco, known for its glamour in the mid-20th century, before becoming package-tourist fodder. Since then, it’s been overhauled, its historic “tropical neoclassical” center restored, and good times – as well as fine dining and vibrant nightlife – are being had again.</p> <p>There is no reason why cautious, vigilant travelers should not have a safe stay in Mazatlan. Cartels are not in the business of costing themselves money. Do bear in mind these few rules, however, which apply all the way down the Pacific coast: <a href="/explore/guides/spanish-travel-phrasebook">acquire some Spanish</a>; drink bottled water; plan your nights out; don’t make a show of your valuables; avoid packed buses (rapid transit systems are safer and quicker); don’t hail cars in the street, but Uber is fine; book accommodation through a reputable platform; keep a list of emergency numbers; hire a guide for tours outside the city limits; and watch out for scams – overcharging street and beach vendors, ATM skimming, and fake police officers.</p> <h2 id="sayulita">Is Sayulita safe to visit?</h2> <p>The Nayarit Riviera, almost 200 miles (322km) of coastline from San Blas in the north to Nuevo Vallarta near the Jalisco border, <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/surfing">draws a lot of surfers</a>, and Sayulita, with excellent surf camps and all-level breaks, is their capital.</p> <p>Formerly sleepy and recently designated a <em>Pueblo Magico</em> (a place notable for its beauty, historical significance or cultural import), Sayulita is a small town with the usual growing pains that come with sudden popularity (relatively sudden, anyway, since the mid-90s), but it is one of the safest spots in one of the safest states in Mexico.</p> <p>Reminding people of Puerto Vallarta in the 60s – tourists often outnumber the locals, and golf carts are the vehicle of choice – Sayulita’s lack of development is the main threat to your safety. Many businesses don’t accept cards, so you’ll need to carry cash. Use bank ATMS, avoid withdrawing at night, and wear a pickpocket-proof money belt.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/mexico/sayulita.jpg" alt="The beach in Sayulita, Mexico." /> <figcaption>The beach in Sayulita. Image credit: Getty Images / Alfredo Matus</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="vallarta">Is Puerto Vallarta safe to visit?</h2> <p>Mexico’s Pacific coast doesn’t get much more desirable than “Vallarta” as the number of expats, retirees, and second-homers there will testify. An <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/lgbt-mexico-what-you-need-to-know">LGBTQ+-friendly destination</a>, dubbed “the San Francisco of Mexico”, in terms of drinking, dining, clubbing, public art, and water sports the city wants for nothing, and it has its own airport and cruise ship berths too.</p> <p>Generally impressively safe, where Vallarta poses dangers – irritations, at least – it’s where it’s been a victim of its own success. After you pass through customs at the airport, you’ll have to head through “the shark tank”, which is where timeshare sales reps shoal. To describe their tactics as heavy-handed – free tequila shots, margaritas, offers of breakfast – is to not experience the onslaught up close. Though it’s possible to milk the reps for spa passes, massages, and whale-watching excursions, you are better off not engaging – it is doubtful you’ll get one over on people who are prepared to lie for their living.</p> <h2 id="acapulco">Is Acapulco safe to visit?</h2> <p>Acapulco is the largest beach and <em>balneiro</em> resort in Mexico, but since its heyday in the 60s, when Elvis Presley filmed there and Frank Sinatra and Elizabeth Taylor holidayed, it has gone the wrong kind of <em>loco</em>.</p> <p>After attracting all the wrong headlines for its top-ten placing on the league table of dangerous locales – for murder, abduction, and extortion, in particular – Acapulco had started to recover. Domestic tourists were returning, even if the convention centers weren’t full of international visitors. But the devastation wrought by Hurricane Otis in October 2023 has reopened the door to cartels vying for control of the city and its criminal economies.</p> <p>Acapulco is a crucial entry point for cocaine en route from South America to consumer markets in the United States, and the Jalisco Cartel New Generation, Sinaloa Cartel groups, Familia Michoacana, and the Acapulco Independent Cartel all maintain a presence there. For now, I would leave the city to its own devices.</p> <h2 id="oaxaca">Is Oaxaca safe to visit?</h2> <p>Mexico’s fifth largest state may be one of its poorest, but it’s <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/sierra-norte-guide">rich in diversity</a>, both topographically and culturally – being home to 16 indigenous groups, each with its own customs, traditions and language.</p> <p>It is also very safe, as it’s not cartel country – few contraband corridors run through the state’s forbidding landscapes: mountains, jungle and cacti-sentried scrubland.</p> <p>Apart from the big waves at Playa Zicatela, the 2-mile (3.5km) beach at <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/chasing-waves-on-the-west-coast">Puerto Escondido</a>, Mexico’s best-known surfing spot (which has its own airport), the region is largely unmapped swell territory. That’s because it’s undeveloped. You can drive for hours on the 200 coast road and not pass a single town, but one dusty shoreline track later…</p> <p>Upcoming surf towns include Manzunte, Zipolite, Barra de la Cruz, San Agustinillo, and Salina Cruz. Summer, from April when the southern swells start kicking off, is the peak season for surfing in Oaxaca, and winter is great for beginners. You should bear in mind, however, that the more remote the locale, the less likely it will come with warning signs or, traditionally, red flags. Every year, dozens of unsuspecting tourists fall prey to powerful <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/water-safety">undertows and rip currents</a> – surfers are better equipped than swimmers to withstand the conditions, but the risks are very real.</p> <p>The culture on the Pacific coast is laidback, and not averse to a party, so store your valuables, camera, and passport in a strongbox at your hotel/hostel and take just enough cash to see you through the night. Again, a money belt is your friend. For more tips to stay safe at night in Mexico, <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/nightlife-in-mexico">check out our article</a>.</p>Getty Images/Mint Images 11142883862 Getty Images City rooftops at sunrise in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-baja-california-safeThis Mexican peninsula south of the US state of California offers beaches, parties, and a multitude of outdoor activities. But how safe is it for visitors? Here are our safety tips for Baja California and what to know before you go.2025-03-04T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-baja-california-safehttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>The Baja California peninsula in Mexico shares a border with the US state of California and includes two states, Baja California and Baja California Sur. The entire peninsula is often referred to simply as “Baja California” (which translates to “Lower California”) or “Baja Cali” for short. Its northern border, which is the busiest land crossing in the world, is just an hour from downtown San Diego.</p> <p>I’ve made this crossing numerous times, both on foot and by bicycle, in an attempt to get to know some of the peninsula’s beaches, party towns, deserts, scuba diving spots, and steamy hot springs. I’ve also camped at half a dozen campgrounds, under some of the darkest and most star-spangled skies you can imagine. My most memorable trip to Baja California was to visit friends in Tijuana and Rosarito, with whom I embarked on a week-long roadtrip chasing the whale-watching season in <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/north-america/mexico/southern-baja-beyond-los-cabos">Baja California Sur</a>.</p> <p>Whether you’re camping and whale watching in Guerrero Negro, scuba diving in La Paz, surfing in Todos Santos, or clubbing in Cabo, here’s what you need to know about staying safe in Baja California, Mexico.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#baja">Safety in Baja California</a></li> <li><a href="#cabo">La Paz and Cabo San Lucas safety tips</a></li> <li><a href="#getting-around">Getting around Baja California safely</a></li> <li><a href="#solo">Is Baja California safe for solo female travelers?</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="baja">Safety in Baja California</h2> <p>The crime rate in the Baja California peninsula varies between its two states and between cites and towns within these states. The US Department of State issues <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mexico-travel-advisory.html" target="_blank">travel advisories</a> specific to each state.</p> <p>Currently (as of March 2025) Baja California Sur has a level 2 out of 4 rating, which simply encourages travelers to “exercise increased caution” due to crime.</p> <p>Baja California (the more northern state) currently has a level 3 rating, warning travelers to “reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping”. The region made international headlines in May 2024, when three foreign tourists were murdered in a carjacking gone wrong on a remote beach near Ensenada.</p> <p>As harsh and serious as these safety concerns are, it’s worth noting that the more serious crimes and homicides in Baja California are often limited to the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. If you’re sticking to the touristed areas or if you’re heading further south, the risk is significantly smaller.</p> <p>Aside from some <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-tijuana-safe-travel-safety-tips">Tijuana-specific safety tips</a> related to transportation scams, drink-spiking, and drug/prostitution-related crime, many of the Baja California safety tips are the same smart measures you’d consider for any destination.</p> <ul> <li>Stick to tourist areas, well-lit streets, and <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-it-safe-to-camp-in-mexico">marked, paid-for campgrounds</a>.</li> <li>Avoid walking alone, particularly at night.</li> <li>Don’t wear flashy clothing, jewelry, or watches.</li> <li>Carry money, phones, and personal belongings in front pockets or in a front-facing fanny pack.</li> <li>Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking around staring at your phone, as looking down or appearing lost can attract the wrong attention.</li> <li>Jot down directions and your hotel’s phone number to prevent you from having to stare at your phone, which could get stolen. If it does, you’ll know how to get back to your hotel.</li> <li>Only carry what you need, leave additional cash and valuables in your hotel safe.</li> <li>Never leave your purse or bag unattended, even for a minute.</li> <li>Do not attend parties or gatherings at someone’s home, even if the person inviting you seems friendly.</li> <li>Drink in moderation and do not leave your drink unattended.</li> <li>Rely on official taxis and rideshares like Uber instead of hailing cabs.</li> <li><a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/mexico-petty-crimes">Fake police officers</a> typically only approach solo travelers. If one approaches you and requests documents, demands you pay a fine, or that you accompany them somewhere – don’t go. Instead, contact emergency services through 911.</li> </ul> <h2 id="cabo">La Paz and Cabo San Lucas safety tips</h2> <p>First, let’s define what is generally referred to as “Cabo.” So-called Cabo is made up of the larger Los Cabos area, which includes the resort towns of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, along with the 20-mile Tourist Corridor that stretches along the coastline between the two towns. While Cabo has a reputation for high-end resorts and endless nightlife, La Paz (about two hours north of Cabo) is better known for outdoor adventures like <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/scuba-diving-travel-insurance">scuba diving</a> and <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/kayaking-or-rafting">sea kayaking</a>. Both areas are considered safe and consistently hold a level 2 travel advisory (“exercise increased caution”). The biggest concerns here tend to be theft and pickpocketing.</p> <p><em>Planning a trip to Mexico? Find out <a href="/travel-insurance">how travel insurance can cover</a> adventure activities, lost or stolen baggage, sudden illness and more.</em></p> <h2 id="getting-around">Getting around Baja California safely</h2> <p>To rent a car anywhere in Mexico (including Baja Cali), you’ll need an International Driving License or a valid driver’s license in a language using the Roman alphabet (like English).</p> <p>You’ll also need to buy Mexican personal liability insurance in order to drive legally, which some Mexican rental companies sell. Some US credit cards also offer free collision damage waiver car rental insurance to their cardholders, but most Mexican car rental agencies don’t honor it.</p> <p>If you’re coming across the California border, you could also drive your own vehicle, as many travelers do. The entire Baja California peninsula is within the Mexico Free Zone, so you don’t need to secure a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit. This way, you can drive from Tijuana all the way down to Cabo, at the tip of Baja California Sur, and back up with no problems. However, even if you drive your own car, you should still take out Mexican car insurance.</p> <p>If you’re not driving, you can safely rely on Uber within Tijuana, La Paz, and Cabo (it likely won’t get you to smaller and further-out towns). InDrive is a regional rideshare app that can be used in Baja Cali Sur. Another popular option in Baja California (Sur, in particular) is hitchhiking.</p> <h2 id="hitchhiking">Is Baja California safe for solo female travelers?</h2> <p>Baja California is as safe for female travelers – if not safer – than many other destinations in Mexico and Latin America. Still, women need to exercise more caution than men, so even though there is never any excuse for catcalling, harassment, assault, or rape, it’s in our best interest to take additional steps to avoid unwanted attention and inappropriate behavior.</p> <p>There is safety in numbers so even if you’re traveling alone, consider sticking close to other groups of travelers, particularly if it’s dark out or you’re in an unfamiliar area. If someone approaches you for money, directions, other types of help, or if they are hitting on you, look for other groups of visitors nearby and pretend to know them. Wave at them, and even if they don’t see you, call to them so the harasser/con artist thinks you’re part of a group, as they don’t like being outnumbered.</p> <p>While it’s important that men also avoid getting drunk or leaving their drink unattended, women tend to be more targeted in bars. They are more likely to have their drink spiked and to be taken advantage of physically if they become drunk. Unfortunately, not all men can be trusted to behave themselves so minimizing alcohol consumption and always keeping an eye on our drinks – especially when alone – is extremely important when traveling.</p>Getty Images/Sergio Mendoza Hochmann 1590575543 Getty Images Sunrise in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/nightlife-in-mexicoMexico's nightlife is vibrant, with locals and travelers who are looking for a good time. Here are a few common sense tips and safety precautions to keep you safe on a night out.2020-10-20T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/nightlife-in-mexicohttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#travel">How to travel safely at night</a></li> <li><a href="#personal">Personal safety tips</a></li> <li><a href="#fake">Fake tequila</a></li> <li><a href="#poison">Alcohol poisoning</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="travel">How to travel safely at night in Mexico</h2> <p>When traveling after 9pm, only use licensed taxis rather than hailing a taxi on the street or taking public transport. Ask your accommodation/restaurant/bar to call one for you.</p> <p>Before getting in the taxi, check your driver has a license (sometimes the license is displayed on the windscreen, some drivers will also wear uniforms). If the taxi has a meter, either ask the driver to use it or negotiate the fare before hopping in otherwise you may end up with an unpleasant surprise at the end of the ride.</p> <p>Robberies have occurred in fake taxis (often a gang member or criminal who has borrowed the licensed taxi) so always be on your guard and watch out for creative fare scams such as changing the price after agreeing to an initial price, asking for gas money etc. In worst-case scenarios, these taxis can be the starting point for <a href="https://bit.ly/2MNqOBF">express kidnappings</a>.</p> <h2 id="personal">Personal safety tips</h2> <ul> <li>Avoid walking alone and stick to well-lit areas</li> <li>Ask locals or at your accommodation about safe places to go to at night and where to avoid</li> <li>Pickpockets are active in tourist-heavy destinations around Mexico, day and night, despite the beefed-up police presence in these locations. Only take out with you what you need, keep your valuables secured and be aware of your surroundings</li> <li>Snatch and grabs can occur so never leave your bag or wallet unattended, over the back of a chair while dining or just sitting on the table</li> <li>If you end up making friends with the locals, you may be asked back to their home. Be cautious and if it doesn't feel right, and politely decline</li> <li>Always drink in moderation so you can navigate your way back to your accommodation safely, as there have been reports of sexual assaults and robberies</li> <li>Avoid leaving your drink unattended, and think twice before accepting free or special drinks that you didn’t order. Aside from the bootleg alcohol factor, the drink may also be spiked</li> <li>Fake police will generally approach solo travelers. If a police officer approaches you, asking for documents, to pay a fine or to go with them to the station or elsewhere – don’t go; instead contact emergency services on 112.</li> </ul> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/mexico/crimemexicolead-Torresigner.jpg" /><figcaption>Image: Getty Images/Torresigner. Mexico City's Downtown at Twilight.</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="fake">Fake tequila</h2> <p>Many people partake in Mexico’s national drink, tequila, but check that it’s 100% agave. Mexico takes its tequila very seriously and there is a regulatory council that oversees tequila standards in production and sales. By law, authentic tequila is produced in just five Mexican states – Jalisco and designated towns in Guanajuato, Nayarit, Michoacan and Tamaulipas.</p> <p>Some bars and restaurants (particularly in popular locations such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and other areas of the Yucatan Peninsula) have been caught serving unregulated and potentially dangerous liquor to guests, including fake tequila.</p> <p>When ordering a drink, make sure you can see what is being made and check that the brands are reputable.</p> <h2 id="poison">Alcohol poisoning</h2> <p>Anything that is passed off as tequila which isn’t 100% agave is generally diluted with methanol which if consumed, can be fatal. Authorities routinely make arrests and <a href="https://www.vice.com/en_nz/article/3kkqg9/a-huge-amount-of-deadly-fake-booze-was-confiscated-from-resorts-in-mexico-vgtrn">seizures</a> of fake tequila and other alcohol.</p> <p>You can't see, smell or taste methanol in drinks so if you, or anyone you are traveling with, suspect that you may have been poisoned, seek medical attention immediately and report all cases of methanol poisoning to the local police.</p> <p>Methanol poisoning symptoms to look out for include blurred vision, dilated pupils, fatigue, nausea, headache and abdominal pain.</p> <p>If you still feel unsure, you might want to stick to bottled wine, bottled or canned beer.</p>Getty Images/Pixelchrome Inc 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/safety-for-women-travelling-to-mexicoIf you're a woman heading to Mexico to explore, here's what to expect, and how to stay safe while traveling.2025-04-08T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/safety-for-women-travelling-to-mexicohttps://www.worldnomads.com<div> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As a travel writer born and raised in Mexico, I often get asked for tips by friends with upcoming trips. They want to know about the weather, which parts of the country they shouldn’t miss, and my takes on the best places to eat in each city or coastal town. What they probably don’t always expect is a rundown on safety measures to follow while there, but there are things you should know, especially if you’re a woman visiting Mexico.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Mexico is a huge country with varying degrees of violence depending on the region, and chances are nothing will happen to you as a tourist. However, <a href="https://www.visionofhumanity.org/gender-based-violence-in-mexico/">violence against women</a> is a serious issue in Mexico, one that shouldn’t be ignored, and local women are used to taking precautions that tourists are often unaware of.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Here's what to expect and safety measures on how to stay safe as a woman traveling to Mexico.</span></p> </div> <ul> <li><a href="#blending">Blending in in Mexico</a></li> <li><a href="#aware">Stay aware</a></li> <li><a href="#safe">Stick to safe areas</a></li> <li><a href="#transport">Know your transport options</a></li> <li><a href="#money">Be careful with money</a></li> <li><a href="#personal">Watch your personal belongings</a></li> <li><a href="#alert">Stay alert while drinking</a></li> <li><a href="#location">Share your location with friends</a></li> <li><a href="#walk">Walk with confidence</a></li> <li><a href="#emergency">Emergency numbers</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="blending">Blending in in Mexico</h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“But it’s obvious I don’t look like a local,” you might think. Not necessarily. There are millions of foreigners living in Mexico, so it’s better to look like a knowledgeable expat than stick out like a sore thumb as a tourist.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While coastal towns are used to people wearing anything they want and no one will bat an eyelid at the sight of bare legs, cities maintain a </span><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/north-america/mexico/social-etiquette"><span style="font-weight: 400;">certain etiquette</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Shorts will definitely make you stand out as a tourist (and might call unwanted attention such as stares or catcalls) in cities such as <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/4-tips-for-exploring-mexico-city">Mexico City</a> and Oaxaca, as local men and women of all walks of life prefer longer pants, jeans and more modest skirts, regardless of the weather.</span></p> <p>When it comes to jewelry, leave anything expensive back home. Mexicans aren’t flashy about wearing expensive jewelry out in public.</p> <h2 id="aware">Stay aware in Mexico</h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It might come naturally to walk around in awe of new places you visit but try to remain aware of where you are and who’s around you. As a woman, it’s not advisable to walk alone at night, ever. If you must (say, if you’re a block away from your accommodation and it’s too short a walk to get an Uber or taxi), don’t let strangers get too close or walk right behind you.</span></p> <p>On a related note, be aware of the information you disclose to strangers. Unless it’s your tour guide, hotel concierge, or Airbnb host, there’s no need to go around telling taxi drivers and random people you meet that you’re traveling on your own (if that’s the case).</p> <h2 id="safe">Stick to safe areas</h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Whether you like traveling “</span><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/north-america/mexico/off-the-beaten-path-mexico"><span style="font-weight: 400;">off the beaten path</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">” or not, research the area you’re staying in to avoid less savory parts of town. For example, staying in the historic center may sound appealing (as it does in most cities worldwide), but in Mexico City, most streets in the area haven’t been gentrified yet and can be dodgy at night. Instead, there are leafy central suburbs like Roma and Condesa that are way safer options to stay at.</span></p> <p><strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">must</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> go to places deemed dangerous (like <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/puerto-vallarta-safety-guide">Acapulco</a>, a once cherished beach town turned narco playground), stay at the hotels within the gated communities.</span></strong></p> <h2 id="transport">Know your transport options</h2> <p>A <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/world/exclusive-mexico-citys-transport-ranked-as-most-dangerous-for-women-global-p-idUSKCN1NK058/" target="_blank">2018 study commissioned by the Thomson Reuters Foundation</a> found that three in every four women felt unsafe while using public transport in Mexico City. Overcrowding was cited as a major concern, which led to groping and other sexual harassment, and fellow travelers were unlikely to come to a woman's aid. To address the problem, women-only train carriages (normally the first three cars) were implemented some 20 years ago, but they are not available on all the metro lines, and a <a href="https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/abs/10.1086/707421?journalCode=edcc" target="_blank">2021 study by the University of Chicago</a> found that that the program has only reduced sexual harrassment by 2.9%.</p> <p>When it comes to taxis, it’s a good practice to avoid hailing them off the street in big cities as street taxis have been known to be involved in crime. Instead, get a taxi from a taxi rank (your hotel or restaurant can usually call one for you). In smaller towns, ask at your lodgings whether catching a taxi off the street is acceptable in terms of safety.</p> <p>If available in the place you’re visiting, Ubers are preferable to taxis. In general, Ubers are cheap in Mexico and a safer way to get home than walking home alone at night. Local women often share Ubers with a friend when going back home after a night out and always check in with each other to make sure everyone gets home safe.</p> <p>If you’re traveling long distances by bus, avoid nighttime buses. Try to travel during the day instead. (The same goes for driving on highways, especially around areas where there’s a higher chance that there are narcos or narco fields.)</p> <h2 id="money">Be careful with money</h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It’s not advisable to go to ATMs at night. When you take money out, put it away discreetly, trying to avoid accidentally flashing it. Always keep some money and credit cards locked up at the hotel (in the safety deposit box or inside a locked suitcase).</span></p> <p>If you go out at night, take only one card that you know works, preferably not a card attached to a large bank balance that's visible on the screen, and <a href="/travel-wiser/practical/how-to-travel-safely-with-cash">some money in cash</a>. Should you get mugged, ALWAYS hand over the money. Don’t try to argue with the mugger or chase someone down the street if they take your bag – you never know if that person will have a knife or gun, and they probably won’t be afraid to use it.  </p> <h2 id="personal">Watch your personal belongings</h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Never hang your handbag on the back of a chair at an outdoor restaurant. While sitting on streetside terraces, Mexican women will usually dine holding their purses on their laps. Similarly, don’t leave your bags unattended in a shop to go grab something in a different part of the shop, even if you’re planning on being away for just a minute. And, while walking, don’t let your bag hang loose on your backside, always clutch it towards your front.</span></p> <p>When it comes to your passport, leave it locked up at the hotel with most of your credit cards. Take a photo of it and carry a print copy as well in case you ever get questioned by the police.</p> <p><em>Planning a trip to Mexico? Find out how travel insurance can help in case of unexpected illness, lost or stolen baggage, or other travel mishaps.</em></p> <h2 id="alert">Stay alert while drinking</h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Like anywhere in the world, don’t leave your drink unattended. And it’s always a good idea to make sure you’ve eaten if you’re planning on drinking. Altitude, <a href="/travel-wiser/wellness/how-to-overcome-jet-lag-tips-for-travelers">jet lag</a>, and tiredness from catching early flights can all contribute to you having less tolerance to alcohol that you would back home. You’ll want to stay alert if you’re traveling on your own.</span></p> <p>On a night out, don’t get drunk or put your friend in a cab or Uber by herself if she gets drunk. This isn’t a lesson in morality, it’s a fact that women disappear in taxis in Mexico when going home at night, so it goes back to being aware of your surroundings and who’s around you as much as you can.</p> <h2 id="location">Share your location with friends</h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you’re considering meeting someone through a dating app, try meeting during the day for the first time. It’s a good idea to meet in a public place that’s not too close to your lodgings, that way you can avoid your date offering to walk you home in case you need to get out of the date. (It’s always better to be able to get out of it using a cab or Uber, as you don’t want someone you didn’t like or know well to know where you live –this applies back home too, actually!)</span></p> <p>Take a screenshot of your date’s photo and info and send it to a friend (even if they’re abroad). WhatsApp lets you share your live location with a friend for up to 8 hours. Consider telling them the area you’ll be in and ask them to monitor the map and check in on you if you stir too far from where you’re supposed to be on the map. This may seem extreme, but once you feel comfortable, you can let them know you’re okay. (Your friend doesn’t actually need to be checking the screen for the whole 8 hours.) </p> <h2 id="walk">Walk with confidence</h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Be wary of overly helpful people, smile, say “<em>No gracias</em>” and keep walking straight ahead. There are some very creative scams happening in touristy areas. As an example, I once witnessed my Canadian flatmate’s mom being a victim of a “the bird pooped on you” scam in downtown Mexico City.</span></p> <p>It consisted of a group of women surrounding her to help her wipe “bird poop” from her face (after one of them had sprayed her with water while no one was watching) while one of the perpetrators went through her bag. The point was just to distract her from paying attention to her bag. Thankfully, hers was a travel bag with lots of hidden compartments, so they never got to her money, passport, or any valuables.</p> <h2 id="emergency">Emergency numbers</h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Should something happen, opt for the tourist police rather than the regular police. They are known for being more helpful and less corrupt. Mexico operates multilingual Tourist Assistance Centers in Los Cabos, La Paz, Acapulco, Playa del Carmen, Mazatlan, Ciudad Madero, and Querataro.</span></p> <p>If not available in the city or town where you’re staying, consider getting help from your country’s consulate or embassy.</p> <p>In Mexico, you can reach <a href="https://embamex.sre.gob.mx/eua/index.php/en/2016-04-09-20-40-51/tourism/1600-planning-resources" target="_blank">Tourist Assistance</a> by dialing 078 from any phone. They can provide information on embassies or consulates, hospitals, and other issues.</p> <p>For emergencies call 911.</p>Getty Images/Starcevic 11049060804 Getty Images Teotihuacan pyramids in Mexico

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/lgbt-mexico-what-you-need-to-knowIs Mexico LGBTQ+- friendly or not? Here's everything you need to know, from local laws to marriage and muxes, we take a look.2020-10-20T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/lgbt-mexico-what-you-need-to-knowhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Mexico offers a wide range of experiences for LGBTQ+ travelers, including cosmopolitan cities, beautiful gay-popular beaches, culturally rich towns and endless historic sites to explore. Queer visitors should expect a warm welcome throughout the country, but it’s important to note that the experience for locals may be different.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#legal">LGBTQ+ laws</a></li> <li><a href="#locals">LGBTQ+ locals</a></li> <li><a href="#visitors">LGBTQ+ visitors</a></li> <li><a href="#areas">LGBTQ+-friendly areas to visit</a></li> <li><a href="#transgender-in-mexico">Mexico's third gender: Muxe</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="legal">The LGBTQ+ legal status in Mexico</h2> <p>Though laws favor LGBTQ+ people, there are still significant obstacles. Homosexuality was decriminalized in 1871, 132 years before the USA. Same-sex marriage is allowed in Mexico City and 12 states (and recognized nationwide). Transgender persons can change their legal gender and name in Mexico City and two states.</p> <h2 id="locals">Is Mexico safe for LGBTQ+ locals?</h2> <p>The country is strongly Catholic; even gay people are often faith-driven; and family still plays a central role in the lives of LGBTQ+ Mexicans, who must often express their sexuality discreetly. The culture is stronger than the printed law, and each Mexican state can override national decriminalization laws by finding “adjacent“ excuses — like public decency laws — for making an arrest in rare situations. Interestingly, tolerance for homosexuality and non-binary gender identity is higher among indigenous Mexicans, especially among <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/the-muxes-of-juchitan-de-zaragoza">Isthmus Zapotecs, who recognize a distinct and respected third gender - <em>muxe</em></a> - and Yucatán Mayas.</p> <h2 id="visitors">Is Mexico safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?</h2> <p>Basic displays of same-sex affection, like kissing and handholding in public (except for in or around a gay bar in, say, Mexico City), are invitations for scrutiny and potential backlash, which wouldn’t be much different from a small, conservative, rural town anywhere in the world. Gay-popular Puerto Vallarta has a defined gay area and beach. But, a five-minute walk in either direction and the rules change completely. Visitors are encouraged to exercise common sense and respect local culture. Visitors enjoy “tourist privilege” with little likelihood of harm, but it’s important to exercise discretion with locals you meet so you don’t inadvertently put them in harm’s way.</p> <h2 id="areas">LGBTQ+-friendly areas to visit in Mexico</h2> <p>The legalization of gay marriage has reinvigorated LGBTQ+ culture in Mexico City and the place is rich with art, culinary experiences, historical sites, parks, great people watching and a super fun gay area called Zona Rosa packed with queer people, <span>LGBTQ+</span>-popular restaurants and gay bars. Note that many feminine-presenting women may be male prostitutes. The ‘good vibe guys' (or ‘<em>chavos buena onda</em>') solicit along stretches of Paseo de la Reforma, just on the periphery of the 'Pink Zone'. </p> <p>The area was reputedly named the Pink Zone by Mexican artist José Luis Cuevas in the 1970s when he claimed the district was "too timid to be called red, too frivolous to be white." Now, a seen-it-all vibe prevails.</p> <p><a href="https://www.gaytravel4u.com/event/mexico-city-gay-pride/">Mexico City Pride</a>, scheduled for June 26-July 1, 2024, is an especially fun time to visit.</p> <p><a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/puerto-vallarta-safety-guide">Puerto Vallarta</a> is Mexico's <span>LGBTQ+</span> capital. As well as hosting an annual <span>LGBTQ+</span> parade, there are plenty of hotels, tours, cruises, and venues (from sleek martini bars to gritty strip clubs and drag shows) that all aim to take a slice of the lucrative, upwardly mobile <span>LGBTQ+</span> market. In many bars, you'll come across Purple Hand, the only beer (produced by a small Mexican brewery called Minerva) marketed at the LGBTQ+ community.</p> <p>Many other places such as <span>Cancún, Acapulco and Playa del Carmen</span> have queer bars and significant LGBTQ+ populations, which you can look up online. You can connect with other queer people using dating apps but always practice discretion (meet in a public place) for your safety and theirs.</p> <h2 id="transgender-in-mexico">Mexico's third gender: muxe</h2> <p>Southeast of Oaxaca, the lowland Isthmus of <g class="gr_ gr_61 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="61" data-gr-id="61">Tehuantepac</g> has a strong Zapotec culture in which alternative notions of sexuality are not only accepted, they're celebrated. Once a matriarchal society, Zapotec women are hard-core saleswomen who also like to take the lead in all manner of village affairs.</p> <p>Then there are the <g class="gr_ gr_66 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling" id="66" data-gr-id="66">muxe</g> (pronounced ‘moo-she'), a 'third gender‘ that takes both male and female characteristics and is neither devalued nor discriminated against in their communities. Muxes are not transgender, they are distinct. Vestidas <g class="gr_ gr_75 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar multiReplace" id="75" data-gr-id="75">are muxes</g> who dress as women and apply makeup, but there are also <g class="gr_ gr_67 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling" id="67" data-gr-id="67">pintadas</g>, the less common muxes who wear men's clothing.</p> <p>Just five hours from Oaxaca city, the town of Juchitán is a ‘queer paradise' where gender stereotypes are obliterated at every turn. You'll see priests offering communion to women dressing like men and taking male lovers but still occupying traditional female roles.</p> <p>Occasionally muxes will take on more ‘manly' career paths; one notable <g class="gr_ gr_69 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling" id="69" data-gr-id="69">muxe</g>, Amaranta Gómez Regalado, ran for Mexico's congress in 2003. Muxes also serve as a sexual outlet for men before marriage, often dating men who go on to marry women (who will visit the <g class="gr_ gr_68 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="68" data-gr-id="68">muxe</g> to learn some tips about their new spouse). When the daughter gets married and leaves home (usually at a very young age) the gay son generally assumes the role of caregiver to aging parents.</p>GettyImages/VIEWpress-Contributor 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/mexico-transport-optionsMexico is an large country with so much to see so how do you get around? We take a look at how to stay safe while on the road.2019-02-11T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/mexico-transport-optionshttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#mexico-bus-transportation">Bus Travel</a></li> <li><a href="#taxi">Taxis</a></li> <li><a href="#road-travel-in-mexico">Driving in Mexico</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="mexico-bus-transportation">Bus Travel</h2> <p>When people think of bus travel in Latin America, the image of a colorful school bus spluttering along in a fog of fumes, reverberating to cacophonous Banda music springs to mind. Sure enough, off-the-beaten-track, that's the reality of bus transportation in Mexico. Chicken buses connect small towns and villages, or rather stop randomly for anyone, anytime, man or beast. While terribly inefficient, traveling <em><g class="gr_ gr_93 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="93" data-gr-id="93">segunda</g> <g class="gr_ gr_94 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="94" data-gr-id="94">clase</g></em> provides memorable insights into Mexican culture. And yes, you may be sitting next to a chicken at some point.</p> <p>First-class bus services efficiently connect most major cities and towns, but journeys can be long and costs can accumulate. If you were to travel from Tijuana to Cancún, it could take up to three days on several buses, and set you back up to US$650, depending on which provider you go with.</p> <p>So, if your travels are time-sensitive (or you're concerned about traveling through known drug-trafficking regions), a domestic flight is often not much more expensive.</p> <p>However, the first class (<em><g class="gr_ gr_97 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="97" data-gr-id="97">primera</g> <g class="gr_ gr_99 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="99" data-gr-id="99">clase</g></em>) buses are very comfortable and fully equipped with air conditioning, entertainment, Wi-Fi and bathrooms. But, if you want to travel a long distance in style, deluxe <em><g class="gr_ gr_98 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del multiReplace" id="98" data-gr-id="98">ejecutivo</g> </em>or Pullman buses are the way to go. These intercity cruisers have plush, fully reclining seats and free snacks. Replete with every bell and whistle, they come with a suitably hefty 35-40% cost premium over regular first-class tickets. Something to consider if you are watching your travel dollars.</p> <p>While you can save the price of a hotel room if you travel overnight, there are risks attached. Always check locally on the safety situation <g class="gr_ gr_90 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="90" data-gr-id="90">along</g> your route before reserving tickets on overnight buses. Should you choose to travel at night, be aware that a luxury tourist bus is a magnet for thieves and highway robberies can happen. For safety's sake, we suggest you avoid traveling at night.<br /><br />Regardless of the time of day, always keep an eye on your belongings and secure your valuables. Transport hubs are hotspots for pickpockets and thieves.<br /><br />Don't forget to pack some motion sickness tablets, as some roads can be windy or rough, plus toilet paper and anti-bacterial gel. There's nothing worse than needing to use the bathroom and finding there's no paper.</p> <h2 id="taxi">Taxis</h2> <p>Taxis can be a cheap way to get around some of Mexico's major cities and popular holiday spots. They are also a safe option especially if you plan to head for a night out. But you need to know which ones to hire as picking the wrong type can sometimes mean the difference between being scammed on the fare or worse, getting <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/mexico-kidnapping-and-other-crimes">express kidnapped</a>.<br /><br />It's best to get your accommodation or restaurant to book you an authorized taxi <g class="gr_ gr_102 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Style multiReplace" id="102" data-gr-id="102">or</g><g class="gr_ gr_101 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Style replaceWithoutSep" id="101" data-gr-id="101"><g class="gr_ gr_102 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_disable_anim_appear Style multiReplace" id="102" data-gr-id="102">, </g>if</g> you are traveling from a transport hub, pick up one from an official rank (<em><g class="gr_ gr_96 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling" id="96" data-gr-id="96">sitio</g></em>). Make sure the driver is licensed (displayed in the taxi), that the driver looks like the person on the license and the taxi has number plates (a series of numbers and a capital letter on a white plate).<br /><br />Some drivers will tout for fares inside the terminal, waiting for unsuspecting travelers to scam with an expensive fare. A simple "<em>No, gracias</em>" usually solves the problem.<br /><em><br /></em>Authorized taxis are regulated by the city they operate in and operate by <g class="gr_ gr_85 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins doubleReplace replaceWithoutSep" id="85" data-gr-id="85">meter</g>. <g class="gr_ gr_84 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_hide gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar" id="84" data-gr-id="84">Sometimes that meter isn't working, so negotiate your fare.</g> It's best to carry cash as often card payment isn't available.<br /><br />Try to avoid traveling during peak hours if you are staying in a city, traffic congestion can make a ride more expensive than usual. Avoid hailing taxis from the street after dark.<br /><br />Knowing some Spanish can help you get where you are going plus negotiating the fare. If language is still a barrier, make sure you have a map (hardcopy or digital) or the details of the place you are heading to e.g accommodation, restaurant etc.<br /><br /></p> <h2 id="road-travel-in-mexico">Driving in Mexico</h2> <p>Mexican roads present challenges for every driver, from busy city areas to poor road conditions in rural areas. More than 16,000 people lost their lives in 2016. Mexicans drive on the right side of the road. To rent a car in Mexico, you must be 23 or older and carry a full valid license plus an International Driver's Permit. The wearing of seat belts is compulsory.</p> <p>In Mexico City, some locals disregard the road rules, run red lights and stop signs and make illegal turns. Even when you aren't confronted with negligent drivers, it can sometimes feel like the whole city was designed just to enrage you. Mexican cities seem to have a large number of one-way streets (sometimes with no street signs). <br /><br />Since 2017, the use of cell phones while driving has been illegal however people still push their luck. The blood alcohol limit in Mexico is 0.08, which is higher than in many other countries. </p> <p>Traveling outside of big cities can seem daunting for any visitor behind the wheel. While new highways are in excellent condition (especially the shockingly expensive toll roads), when driving on village roads you may need to navigate crater-size potholes, livestock that may wander in front of your vehicle when you least expect it, and omnipresent topes (large speed bumps). Roadside shrines stand as testaments to the perils of driving Mexico's serpentine mountain routes (often unpaved and with no lighting) which are prone to mudslides during bad weather.</p> <p>For safety reasons, it's strongly advised that you do not drive at night due to the high risk of robbery and violence from thieves. </p> <p>Distances in Mexico can be inaccurate and GPS can be of little help if you are driving in remote areas. If you get lost, it's always a good idea to cross-check information with a few sources. </p> <p>Corrupt Mexican police may stop foreign-plated vehicles or rental cars for no reason other than to solicit a bribe. The local authorities are trying to stamp out this behavior, however, if you are stopped by police officers trying to make some extra coin on the side, <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/laws-and-legal-issues-you-need-to-know-about-before-going-to-mexico#drive">check out our advice on how to deal with a <em><g class="gr_ gr_95 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling" id="95" data-gr-id="95">mordida</g></em></a>.</p>GettyImages/Glow Images 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/laws-and-legal-issues-you-need-to-know-about-before-going-to-mexicoTraveling to Mexico? Here's what you need to know about local laws, illegal activities, and staying out of trouble in Mexico.2023-02-27T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/laws-and-legal-issues-you-need-to-know-about-before-going-to-mexicohttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Traveling to Mexico? Here's what you need to know about the local laws and how to stay on the right side of them. Foreign nationals who commit illegal acts under Mexican law have no special privileges and are subject to full prosecution under the Mexican judicial system.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#car">Car rental laws</a></li> <li><a href="#alcohol">Alcohol consumption</a></li> <li><a href="#drugs">Drugs in Mexico</a></li> <li><a href="#lgbtq">LGBTQ in Mexico</a></li> <li><a href="#bribe">What is a Mordida?</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="car">Car rental laws</h2> <p>First, to rent a car in <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico">Mexico</a> you’ll need either an International Driving License or a valid driver’s license in a language that uses the Roman alphabet (this one).</p> <p>To legally drive in Mexico, you’ll need to buy Mexican personal liability insurance. Some rental companies will lean on you to purchase it from them, which is illegal, but the most you can do is argue with them – they’re not obliged to do business with you. Some US credit cards offer their cardholders free collision damage waiver car rental insurance, but most Mexican car rental agencies won’t honor it. </p> <p>If you’re involved in a serious accident, wait for the police to come and have your insurance ready. But for minor fender-benders, Mexicans usually settle up in cash by the side of the road. If it’s your fault, offer a few hundred pesos (unless you have full coverage, you’ll have to pay for it later); and if it’s not, it’s up to you if you want to ask for money or call your insurance company.<br /><br />In remote areas, be aware that you may come across unofficial roadblocks, even on main roads, manned by locals seeking toll money. Use the official <em>cuota</em> – toll – roads where possible.</p> <p>As far as the driving culture goes, passing is the most important thing to get your head around. Drive on the right and pass on the left, but on many one-lane highways in Mexico, especially on the newer toll roads, there’s a wide shoulder on either side divided by a broken white line. When someone wants to pass you, drive about halfway onto the shoulder to let them get by.</p> <h2>Alcohol consumption laws</h2> <p>The legal drinking age is 18 in Mexico, and while passengers of the requisite age aren’t prohibited from drinking inside a vehicle, it’s illegal to drink in the street, and visitors can be fined or jailed for public inebriation.<br /> <br /> Driving while drunk in Mexico is, of course, a criminal offense. And Mexican authorities employ DUI checkpoints to enforce the law. Rental cars carrying foreigners around party-hearty tourist spots are often pulled over. <br /> <br /> When a car is stopped at a checkpoint, the driver is breathalyzed. If they fail the test – if their BAC (blood alcohol concentration) is over .08 in most states, but over just half that in Aguascalientes, Chiapas, Estado de México (including Mexico City), Hidalgo, Jalisco, Michoacán, Tamaulipas and Veracruz –  they may do up to 36 hours in jail, be fined up to USD $2,500, and denied future entry into the country if they’re found to have had a drunk driving conviction in the past 10 years.<br /> <br /> The government likes to keep things “tranquilo” in the run-up to elections and referenda, both state and federal. Where it is implemented, <em>ley seca</em>, or dry law (which, until 2007, was enforced at a national level – the authorities of each state now determine whether or not to apply it) bans alcohol sales for up to 48 hours, the day before elections and throughout election day. Very occasionally the law has been brought in to ensure calm during religious holidays.</p> <h2 id="drugs">Drugs in Mexico</h2> <p>Trafficking proscribed drugs and possession beyond the legal amounts set out for personal use are federal offenses, and convicted offenders, for whom bail is not an option, face jail sentences of up to 25 years. It’s not uncommon for foreigners charged with drug offenses to be detained for up to two years before a verdict is reached.</p> <p>In 2009, the Mexican government adopted legislation decriminalizing possession of small amounts of drugs for "personal and immediate use” – defined as up to half a gram of cocaine, five grams of marijuana, 50 milligrams of heroin, 40 milligrams of methamphetamine and 0.015 milligrams of LSD.</p> <p>If you need to take prescription drugs while in Mexico, ensure you have the necessary paperwork (a doctor’s letter or prescription), but note that some drugs that are legal in your home country may not be in Mexico, and you may be subject to arrest for arriving in the country with a controlled substance. Over-the-counter medicines that contain stimulants, such as codeine and pseudoephedrine, which is in Actifed, Sudafed and Vicks inhalers, are prohibited. </p> <h2 id="lgbtq">LGBTQ+ laws in Mexico</h2> <p>As of 2022, 19 out of 32 states have approved a law that allows any person to change their legal documents to align with their chosen name and gender identity; and a bill to ban the pseudoscientific practice of conversion therapy, with punishments of up to 12 years imprisonment for anyone practicing or promoting it, was passed by the Mexican Senate in October.</p> <p>However, political protection and social convention are different things. Public policy in Mexico is heterogeneous, in the sense that, despite rulings from the nation’s Supreme Court of Justice mandating equal legal, social, and political recognition of gender and sexual minorities, many states and entities do not create laws to this end. The enforcement of a binary sex model continues to pathologize transgender people and expose them to stigma and violence – data collected in 2017 for the <a href="https://www.ipsos.com/en/global-attitudes-toward-transgender-people">Global Attitudes Toward Transgender People</a> survey revealed the country is second only to Brazil in the number of known homicides against transgender people worldwide. To find out more, <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/lgbt-mexico-what-you-need-to-know">check out our article</a> from our LGBTQ+ expert, Ed Salvato.</p> <h2 id="bribe">What is a mordida?</h2> <p>If you hire a car, do yourself a favor and avoid speeding, running a red light, using a cell phone or any other traffic offense or the local police will pull you over and give you a ticket. Always remain calm and respectful. If you are given a fine, ask the officer to take you to the local police station to pay for it legally. However, you may be asked for a <em>mordida</em>, in other words, a bribe – <em>mordidas</em> literally means “bites”.<br /><br /><a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/corrupt-police">Police corruption</a> remains a concern. Reliable figures are hard to come by, but uniformed officers still invite tourists to bribe their way out of trumped-up charges. These bribes are best dealt with calmly. Ask for identification, and be seen to note down the officer’s name, badge and patrol car numbers.</p>GettyImages/stockcam 0 Grand official building in Mexico

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-cancun-safeThe Yucatan Peninsula is known for beaches, Mayan ruins, and outdoor adventure, but crime and violence do sometimes occur. Here’s how to stay safe when visiting Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen.2024-04-30T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-cancun-safehttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Considered to be one of the safest places to <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-mexico-safe">travel in Mexico</a>, the Yucatan Peninsula is famous for sun, fun, history, and adventure. Sure, the beachside cities of Cancun and Playa del Carmen get most of the attention, but the Yucatan Peninsula is also home to some of the most impressive Mayan ruins and the best scuba diving and snorkeling in the entire country.</p> <p>After several solo scuba diving trips to Cancun and Playa del Carmen, I returned with my family to explore more of the peninsula. We rented a car and drove from town to town, stopping at Mayan ruins and historic sites along the way. The Yucatan Peninsula is that special destination that attracts solo travelers, couples, and partygoers while somehow remaining family friendly.</p> <p>Here is all the safety information you need to know when planning your trip to the Yucatan Peninsula.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#safety">Safety in the Yucatan Peninsula</a></li> <li><a href="#playa">Is Playa del Carmen safe?</a></li> <li><a href="#cancun">Safety in Cancun</a></li> <li><a href="#tulum">Safety tips for visiting Tulum and Chichen Itza</a></li> <li><a href="#crime">Crime hotspots in the Yucatan Peninsula</a></li> <li><a href="#weather">Weather-related safety</a></li> <li><a href="#solo">Safety precautions for solo travelers</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="safety">Safety in the Yucatan Peninsula</h2> <p>The Yucatan Peninsula is generally considered to be made up of three states: Yucatan, Campeche, and Quintana Roo. Each has its own flavor and appeal but many of the same safety tips apply across the board. Learning <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/guides/spanish-travel-phrasebook">some basic Spanish</a>, staying vigilant, and following a few rules will go a long way in keeping you safe.</p> <p>When it comes to Mexico safety advisories, the US Department of State issues <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mexico-travel-advisory.html#Quintana%20Roo%20state" target="_blank">travel advisories</a> specific to each state because safety varies so much between them. Currently, the states of Campeche and Yucatan have no travel advisories. Merida, the vibrant capital of the state of Yucatan, and Campeche, the port city and capital of Campeche, are two of the safest cities in Mexico so the biggest safety concern is pickpocketing.</p> <p>However, Quintana Roo – where Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen are located – has a level two advisory (on a scale of one to four) due to crime. Travelers are encouraged to “exercise increased caution” here.</p> <h2 id="playa">Is Playa del Carmen safe?</h2> <p>In general, Playa del Carmen (in Quintana Roo) is a safe city. I’ve been three times and have always felt comfortable walking around the tourist areas even while alone, with children, and at night. It has a more laid-back vibe when compared to big and bustling Cancun, so it’s easy to feel at ease. Relax but don’t get too comfortable, as you’ll want to avoid side streets away from the main beachfront area at night, which can get a bit dicey.</p> <h2 id="cancun">Safety in Cancun</h2> <p>As a much larger city that is as known as much for partying, drinking, and gambling as it is for snorkelling and sunbathing, Cancun requires a bit more caution than Playa del Carmen. The US State Department issued a cartel crime-related travel advisory to Cancun as recently as October 2023, but it’s not the crime hotspot <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/puerto-vallarta-safety-guide#acapulco">that is Acapulco</a>, so don’t be too quick to cross it off your travel list. Why? Because pickpocketing and petty theft are far more common than murder.</p> <p>In Cancun, travelers are advised to use official taxi stands or rideshares like Uber instead of hailing cabs off the street. And while official taxis are safe, it’s worth noting that some taxi drivers have harassed Uber-hailing tourists and blockaded streets in Cancun because they believe Uber drivers are stealing their customers. Because the situation can change rapidly, speak with your hotel in advance to confirm what they believe is the best way to get around when you arrive.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/mexico/cancunlead-arthurgonoretzky.jpg" alt="An aerial view of hotels and resorts in Cancun, Mexico." /> <figcaption>Beachfront hotels and resorts in Cancun, Mexico. Image credit: Getty Images / Arthur Gonoretzky</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="tulum">Safety tips for visiting Tulum and Chichen Itza</h2> <p>Tulum and Chichen Itza have long been hailed as home to some of the most stunning Mayan ruins in all the Americas. In fact, Tulum has the special recognition of being the only Mayan historical site that was built on the water, making for an especially scenic landscape with brilliant blue water serving as the backdrop behind the ruins.</p> <p>For many years, pickpocketing was the chief concern in these consistently packed tourist areas, but in recent years, the city of Tulum has seen an increase in violent crime, including assault and homicide. Most of the crime is driven by gangs and drug violence but tourists can get caught in the crosshairs. To minimize the chance of encountering violence, stick close to the tourist area and do not go out at night.</p> <h2 id="crime">Crime hotspots in the Yucatan Peninsula</h2> <p>Though the Yucatan Peninsula is one of the safest places for travelers in Mexico, there are a handful of crime “hotspots” to avoid. Touristed areas tend to be the safest, and while pickpocketing can occur, muggings and more serious crimes are unlikely here. If you stray away from touristed areas and wander into alleys and side streets (particularly at night), you could run into problems.</p> <p>And while buses tend to be a very safe way to travel around Mexico (and I’ve spent dozens of hours criss-crossing the country this way), like in many other countries, bus terminals sometimes attract sketchy people late at night. Buy your tickets during the day and avoid hanging out or sleeping in the terminal overnight.</p> <p>Do a bit of research to <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/mexico-petty-crimes#jetski">avoid crime and scams</a> like fake police officers, rigged ATMs, and dodgy taxis. These scams and safety threats exist all over Mexico (and the entire world, for that matter), but you can avoid a lot of it by doing a bit of research, sticking close to the tourist area, and only using official bank ATMs and certified taxis or rideshares.</p> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Mexico.html" target="_blank">In case of emergency, dial 911</a>.</p> <h2 id="weather">Weather-related safety</h2> <p>First and foremost, know that safety isn’t all about crime. At worst, weather can pose a significant threat to your safety, and, at best, it can simply create an unpleasant trip.</p> <p>I first traveled to Mexico with my high school Spanish Club when I was 18. Having never left my state before, I was completely unprepared for the heat. On the first day at the beach, I caught a bad case of heat stroke, and spent several days cooped up in the hotel with a headache and painful sunburn. Part of staying safe in warm weather environments is <a href="/travel-wiser/survival/how-to-stay-safe-and-hydrated">staying hydrated</a>, applying sunscreen, and limiting time in the sun.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/mexico/chichen-itza.jpg" alt="The main pyramid at Chichen Itza, famous Mayan ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico." /> <figcaption>"El Castillo" at Chichen Itza. Image credit: Cassandra Brooklyn</figcaption></figure> <p>On the more serious end of weather-related safety, the Yucatan Peninsula experiences <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/how-to-survive-a-hurricane">a hurricane season</a> that can sometimes include devastating winds and rain. While the official hurricane season is from June through November, the greatest risk of tropical storms exists in August, September, and October. Hotel rooms and flights are often cheaper during these months, but there’s a reason for the discount.</p> <h2 id="solo">Safety precautions for solo travelers</h2> <p>All the previously mentioned crime and safety tips apply to travelers in general, regardless of whether they’re traveling alone, with a partner, a group of friends, or family. However, there is often safety in numbers, so solo travelers should remain especially vigilant.</p> <p>When traveling alone, it’s especially important to be careful at night, particularly to areas outside of the tourist zone. If you choose to visit bars, parties, or clubs, keep a close eye on your drink so nobody can taint it. Avoid wearing flashy watches or jewelry and keep your phone and money in your front pockets.</p> <p>If you’re carrying a fanny pack or purse, wear it in the front or hold it tucked tightly under your shoulder. When walking, pay attention to your surroundings instead of staring down at your phone or getting lost in your headphones.</p>Cassandra Brooklyn 0 Cassandra Brooklyn Mayan ruins along the coast in Tulum, Mexico.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-mexico-safeMexico isn't dangerous if you know what to look out for. Kidnapping, crime, drugs, scams, natural hazards, health and transport safety tips.2022-06-06T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-mexico-safehttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Safety is something many travelers think about before traveling to <a href="/explore/guides/mexico-nomads-guide" target="_blank" title="Mexico: Where Nomads Go">Mexico</a> – but despite what you might see in the media, thousands of people travel here trouble-free every year.</p> <p>Before you go, check your government's travel advisory for the most up-to-date information relevant to you.</p> <p>This is what you need to know to stay safe and out of harm's way in Mexico.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#street">Street safety</a></li> <li><a href="#petty">Petty crime in Mexico</a></li> <li><a href="#violence">Violent crime in Mexico</a></li> <li><a href="#scams">Scams in Mexico</a></li> <li><a href="#drugs">Drugs and drug cartel country</a></li> <li><a href="#night">Nightlife safety</a></li> <li><a href="#transport">Transport crime</a></li> <li><a href="#kidnapping">Express kidnapping</a></li> <li><a href="#women">Women's safety</a></li> <li><a href="#lgbtq">LGBTQ+ safety</a></li> <li><a href="#hazard">Natural hazards</a></li> <li><a href="#health">Travel health</a></li> <li><a href="#video">Video: Tips on how to stay safe in Mexico City</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="street">1. Street safety in Mexico</h2> <p>Despite the media headlines telling us that Mexico is rife with crime, the majority of travelers experience one of the world's most vibrant and extraordinary cultures without incident. If you use your common sense, stay aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables out of sight, your trip to Mexico will be uneventful in the best sense of the word</p> <h2 id="petty">2. Petty crime</h2> <p>Pickpocketing, theft, and snatch-and-grabs can happen in Mexico, particularly in crowded areas such as markets, plazas, parks and transport hubs – Benito Juárez International Airport is one such hotspot.</p> <p>Pickpockets often work in teams, aiming to distract you while they fleece you of your phone, wallet, purse, or bag. Be aware of who is around you and where you are. </p> <p>On a day out, don't take anything more than you need for the day and secure your valuables in a safe at your accommodation. If there is no safe available, divide your money up and secrete it away in different places.</p> <p>If dining out, don't leave your bag over the back of the chair or on the table. Keep it between your feet or on your lap, with the strap around your wrist or leg. Don't leave your wallet, purse or phone on the table.</p> <p>Should you experience petty crime, report it to your embassy and the police, though, in the latter case, with the sad proviso that you would be likely wasting your time.</p> <h2 id="violence">3. Violent crime</h2> <p>Most of the time, visitors to Mexico won't experience anything more than petty crime. While the country has a notably high murder rate (back in the tens, the border city of Ciudad Juárez held the distinction of being “the murder capital of the world”), the killings are chiefly the result of <span><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/the-truth-behind-drug-violence">turf wars between drug cartels</a></span>.</p> <p>If you are threatened for your money and other valuables, don't resist or fight back. The assailant may be armed and won't hesitate to use the weapon.</p> <p>Physical and sexual assaults have been reported in many locations in Mexico. Avoid wandering alone at night, particularly in poorly lit areas and near beaches. Avoid traveling alone among ruins, and don't hike solo in remote areas, such as the <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-copper-canyon-safe">Copper Canyon</a>.</p> <h2 id="scams">4. Scams in Mexico</h2> <p>Fake taxis, fake cops, airport scams, watered-down drinks, car rental damage scams and the good old foreign exchange switch.</p> <p>These are just some of the <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/mexico-petty-crimes">scams</a> that can test any traveler in Mexico and, in some cases, drain your holiday funds. Most locals aren’t out to bilk you, but with a little care and by being aware of who is around you and what is going on, you can avoid becoming a con artist’s next victim.</p> <h2 id="drugs">5. Drugs and drug cartel country</h2> <p>Unfortunately, there’s no ignoring that Mexico has a reputation for <span>drug-related crime</span>, and it doesn’t restrict itself to the mean streets of the cartel-run states of Sinaloa, Guerrero, Colima and Michoacán. It goes where the money is, and that includes tourist spots such as <span><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/cabo-san-lucas-travel-tips">Cabo San Lucas</a></span>, <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-cancun-safe"><span>Cancun</span><span style="text-decoration: underline;"> and the Mayan Riviera</span></a>, Puerto Vallarta and Playa del Carmen. <br /><br />Most travelers report trouble-free trips, but some have found themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time or did not follow government safety warnings and advisories. In the case of the <span>Copper Canyon</span>, the popular hiking spot, in the absence of a reputable local guide, wrong turns are all too easy to make and have proved fatal.</p> <h2>6. Nightlife safety in Mexico</h2> <p>Mexicans throw a great party. From sunset to sunrise, whether you are at a bar, in a club or enjoying a nighttime festival, <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/nightlife-in-mexico">it’s important to look after yourself</a>, your fellow travelers and your belongings. Drink spiking can occur, which places you at risk of assault and theft. So, watch your drinks and drink in moderation so you can get back to your accommodation safely.</p> <h2 id="transport">7. Transport crime</h2> <p>If you’re renting a car, don’t drive overnight, and stick to toll roads during the day; otherwise, use first-class coach services between cities as illegal roadblocks and highway robberies are becoming predictable in states such as Guerrero, Michoacán, Oaxaca, Chiapas and along <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/border-towns-the-real-story">the US border</a>. <br /><br />Pickpockets are common on city buses, so use car-sharing and ride-hailing apps. Travelers also need to take personal safety precautions and secure their valuables around transport hubs.</p> <h2 id="kidnapping">8. Express kidnapping in Mexico</h2> <p><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/mexico-kidnapping-and-other-crimes">Express kidnapping</a> is a growing issue in Latin America, not just Mexico. Never flag down an apparently licensed taxi in the street. The vehicle might have been borrowed or stolen by a criminal who, once you have climbed inside, will make demands for money and take you to the nearest ATM to withdraw cash. The driver may take your valuables, too, or take you hostage until your family or friends make a ransom payment. <br /> <br /> Normally, these encounters end with a trip to the cash machine. Either way, it’s vital that you don’t resist. Money and valuables can be replaced – you can’t.</p> <h2 id="women">9. Women's safety in Mexico</h2> <p>While most locals are friendly, there are some who have a machismo attitude towards women. <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/safety-for-women-travelling-to-mexico">Solo women travelers</a> may experience harassment as a result. Dressing modestly, especially in rural locations, can help avoid unwanted attention. Ask locals about the safe places to go when in town and if you’re unsure about exploring by yourself, take a tour. It’s also a great way to meet other fellow travelers. Avoid traveling at night.</p> <h2 id="lgbtq">10. Is Mexico safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?</h2> <p>Mexico is welcoming more <span><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/lgbt-mexico-what-you-need-to-know">LGBTQ+ travelers</a></span> each year, but the Catholic Church continues to exert a conservative influence, so discretion is usually advised in areas that don’t come recommended by gay friends. Large pockets of Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Mérida and Mexico City are very LGBTG+-friendly. And let’s not forget that <span><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/north-america/mexico/the-muxes-of-juchitan-de-zaragoza">parts of Mexico have been gender-queer</a></span> since pre-colonial times.</p> <h2 id="hazard">11. Natural hazards</h2> <p>Every so often, Mother Nature decides to challenge Mexico with <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/worldwide/how-to-explore-volcanic-landscapes-safely">volcanoes</a>, <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/worldwide/how-to-survive-an-earthquake-travel-safety-tips">earthquakes</a>, <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/worldwide/how-to-survive-a-hurricane">hurricanes</a>, intense heat, poisonous plants, venomous reptiles and spiders (rattlers, coral snake, black widow) and predatory big cats (puma, jaguar). But the difficulties we face aren’t always so dramatic – many people drown each year at popular beach resorts due to a combination of dehydration and rip currents. If throwing yourself on the mercies of the natural world is your thing, <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/mexico-disasters-and-dangers">there are many ways you can stay safe</a>.</p> <h2 id="health">12. Travel health</h2> <p>Split by the Tropic of Cancer, Mexico has both tropical and temperate climates, which are home to a variety of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever, malaria, the Zika virus and chikungunya. The country also has great hiking spots, some of which are thousands of feet above sea level, posing the risk of altitude sickness. Throw in a dose of “Montezuma’s Revenge” and staying healthy while traveling in Mexico can throw down the gauntlet to even the most intrepid traveler.</p> <h2 id="video">13. Video: Tips on how to stay safe in Mexico City</h2> <p>Watch as Patrick Abboud speaks to a drug dealer, a police officer and locals at the market, to find out just how safe Mexico City is for travelers.</p> <div style="position: relative; display: block; max-width: 960px;"> <div style="padding-top: 56.25%;"><iframe width="300" height="150" style="position: absolute; top: 0px; right: 0px; bottom: 0px; left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 100%;" src="https://players.brightcove.net/5486793334001/zFA6yZIBx_default/index.html?videoId=6049876568001" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div> </div>Getty Images/ElOjoTorpe 1619492274 Getty Images View of beach in Acapulco, Mexico

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/the-truth-behind-drug-violenceFind out where the drug-related crime hotspots are in Mexico, learn about the drug laws, and what you need to know about traveling with medication.2022-05-31T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/the-truth-behind-drug-violencehttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Mexico is the most popular travel destination for US residents by a very generous margin, at least doubling the total of its nearest competitor, Canada. And while the overwhelming majority of visitors to <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/north-america/mexico/the-rebirth-of-baja-norte">Mexico</a> have a perfectly safe and happy time there, cartel-related violence – homicide, kidnapping, carjacking and robbery – is on the rise across the country, and if your aim is to stay out of harm’s way while you’re there, there are a few factors to bear in mind.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#avoid">Places to avoid in Mexico</a></li> <li><a href="#victim">How to avoid being a victim of crime in Mexico</a></li> <li><a href="#drugs">Medication and the law in Mexico</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="avoid">Places to avoid in Mexico</h2> <p>The US State Department has issued a Level 4 warning against travel to five parts of Mexico: Tamaulipas in the country’s northeast corner; and the Pacific states of Sinaloa (the home of <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico">Mexico</a>’s oldest and largest criminal organization), Colima, Guerrero and Michoacan.</p> <p>US border cities, such as Tijuana, Ciudad Juarez, Nuevo Laredo, Matamoros and Piedras Negras, remain trouble spots, but it’s important to remember that the map of cartel-contested territories is constantly changing. The gangs aren’t fighting solely over control of the drug trade, but a gamut of criminal activities, from illegal logging and mining to human trafficking and <em>huachicoleo</em> (the theft and illicit sale of fuel), as well as muscling in on legitimate businesses, such as livestock producers, fisheries and farmers (Michoacan is the world’s biggest avocado-growing region, and the only state in Mexico that is fully authorized to export to the American market).</p> <p>The global obsession with Mexico’s narco culture means that the extent of the impact of organized crime and political corruption on ordinary Mexicans often goes unreported. For those wanting to do their own research, the <a href="https://insightcrime.org/">InSight Crime</a> website is invaluable.</p> <p>A further 11 states have been given Level 3 – “reconsider traveling to” – status, which brings the blacklist total to 16 out of 32 states. That should provide the budding visitor with food for thought, as the US government has limited ability to provide emergency services in those areas where US government staff are prohibited or restricted from traveling.</p> <p>Popular tourist spots are usually far safer as the authorities go to great lengths and expense to make them so, yet in 2021 and 2022, two tourists were killed in a shooting in Playa del Carmen, four American travelers were injured when gunmen opened fire on a beach in Cancun, and a travel blogger from California and a German tourist were killed in the crossfire during a drug-gang shootout in <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/cancun-other-places-to-stay-visit">Tulum</a>.</p> <h2 id="victim">How to avoid being a victim of crime in Mexico</h2> <p>As I once said to a friend, “Put your phone away. I’m not saying you’re going to get robbed, but if someone in this neighborhood gets robbed in the next 30 minutes, it’s going to be you.” As it turned out, it was.</p> <p>When <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/explore/north-america/mexico/social-etiquette">traveling</a>, solo or with friends, make caution your watchword. There is safety in numbers, so avoid visiting remote areas unfamiliar to tourists. It’s also preferable to avoid driving overnight, and to stick to toll roads and first-class coach services between cities as illegal roadblocks and highway robberies are becoming common in states such as Guerrero, Michoacan, <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/the-muxes-of-juchitan-de-zaragoza">Oaxaca </a>and Chiapas. The rest may read like an idiot’s guide to not coming a vacation cropper, but it’s worth learning by heart:</p> <ul> <li>learn some basic Spanish</li> <li>do not dress to impress</li> <li>keep your valuables out of sight</li> <li>never leave your drink unattended </li> <li>use car-sharing and ride-hailing apps rather than street taxis and public transport (which pose particular dangers for female travelers).</li> </ul> <h2 id="drugs">Medication and the law in Mexico</h2> <p>If you need to take prescription drugs while in Mexico, ensure you travel with the necessary paperwork (a doctor’s letter or prescription), but note that some drugs that are legal in your home country may not be in Mexico, and you may be subject to arrest for arriving in the country with a controlled substance. Over-the-counter medicines widely used in the US, such as Actifed, Sudafed and Vicks inhalers, which contain pseudoephedrine, are prohibited. <span>To find out more, check out our Mexico<span> </span></span><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/tips-for-water-and-food-in-mexico">travel health article</a><span>.</span><br /><br />Don’t commit any crimes yourself. Foreign nationals who commit illegal acts under Mexican law have no special privileges and are subject to full prosecution under the Mexican judicial system. Trafficking proscribed drugs and possession beyond the legal amounts set out for personal use are federal offenses, and convicted offenders, for whom bail is not an option, face jail sentences of up to 25 years. It’s not uncommon for foreigners charged with drug offenses to be detained for up to two years before a verdict is reached.</p>Getty Images/PEDRO PARDO - Stringer 1 Getty Images

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/mexico-petty-crimesFrom fake taxis and phony souvenirs to dodgy tour operators, these are the scams you should watch out for in Mexico.2024-05-14T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/mexico-petty-crimeshttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Having made at least a dozen trips by myself, with my family, and while leading group tours, it’s safe to say that <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico">Mexico</a> is my favorite place in the world. It’s a large country with hugely diverse geography and a seemingly endless amount of food, culture, history, architecture, and music to explore.</p> <p>However, like many countries, there are some common scams in Mexico to look out for. While scammers in Mexico are not lurking at every corner (and I’ve never experienced a scam firsthand), it pays to be vigilant. Here’s what you need to know about avoiding scams and petty crime so you can have a fun, safe, and exciting trip.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#taxi">Fake taxi scams</a></li> <li><a href="#police">Corrupt police in Mexico</a></li> <li><a href="#atm">ATM skimming scams</a></li> <li><a href="#note">Bank note switching</a></li> <li><a href="#souvenirs">Fake souvenirs</a></li> <li><a href="#operators">Dodgy tour operators</a></li> <li><a href="#tips">General safety and scam-avoidance tips</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="taxi">Fake taxi scams</h2> <p>One of the most popular scams in Mexico is the unlicensed taxi, also known as fake taxis. These taxis could be posing as ride shares in private vehicles (in which case, always confirm the license plate number on your phone), or they could be a local criminal who borrowed or stole an official taxi.</p> <p>Instead of flagging down a cab on the street, only <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/mexico-transport-options#taxi">hire an authorized taxi</a> from an official taxi stand (<em>sitio</em>) or by having your hotel, B&B, or the restaurant you’re at call one. Once you find a reliable drive, keep their number in case you need to use them again. Express kidnappings in Mexico are not everyday occurrences but they do happen, so remain vigilant. What is more likely to happen is that you’ll be dramatically overcharged for the ride (at best) or robbed (at worst). If you’re robbed, call 911 immediately.</p> <h2 id="police">Corrupt police in Mexico</h2> <p>There have been reports of fake police infiltrating some police stations in Mexico <span>– but</span> some criminals pose as fake police without even bothering with that. Rather, they may throw on a fake uniform and approach a group of tourists in Mexico City, or they may pull over friends road-tripping their way from <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-tijuana-safe-travel-safety-tips">Tijuana</a> through <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-baja-california-safe">Baja California</a>.</p> <p>In any case, it’s important to ask for credentials and not just assume the person is an officer. Also note that real police officers will never ask you to immediately pay a fine or demand you accompany them to an ATM. If you’re truly being charged by an officer, you’ll be asked to follow them to the station to pay a fine, not to follow them to an ATM machine to pay cash on the spot.</p> <p>While corrupt police in Mexico do sometimes ask for bribes, do not ever offer a bribe to an officer, which could make the situation worse. If you think you were approached by corrupt police, you can call 078 from any phone to reach a tourist information line, or you can call 911.</p> <h2 id="atm">ATM skimming scams</h2> <p>Like many countries, Mexico has its fair share of ATM skimming scams. These so-called “fake ATMs” are outfitted with skimming devices that copy your bank details from the card or they could even swallow your card completely. To avoid encountering these machines, only withdraw money from ATMs that are located inside of banks or upmarket hotels (in other words, not the janky ATM machine outside of the budget hostel, which criminals could corrupt far more easily).</p> <h2 id="note">Bank note switching</h2> <p>Credit cards are widely accepted in Mexico (even by many street vendors), but cash is still king here. Any time you pay with cash anywhere in the world, there is the potential to receive fake bank notes in return as change. Because it’s simply not worth it for criminals to illegally print and circulate small bills, counterfeit bill switching is more likely when paying with large bills.</p> <p>It can take a while to get accustomed enough to a local currency to be able to spot when the texture of the paper or the style of the watermarks is off, but it’s still worth studying local bills a bit to get comfortable with what they look and feel like. To avoid fake notes in the first place, use credit or debit when possible, and never “help out” a stranger (including fellow tourists) asking you to exchange money for them. Avoid paying for small purchases with large bills, and if all you have are large bills, ask the bank or your hotel to exchange them for you before heading out.</p> <h2 id="souvenirs">Fake souvenirs</h2> <p>It’s hard to find a location in the world that doesn’t sell fake souvenirs, and Mexico is no different. Here, you may encounter small markets selling fake handicrafts and relics, particularly in holiday hotspots and touristy attractions. Think someone is offering you an ancient Mayan relic for only US $100? They’re not, they’re offering you a fake.</p> <p>When buying handicrafts, look for the artists name, which wouldn’t appear on mass-produced knockoffs that were likely made overseas. If something is shockingly cheap, it’s likely a fake. Silver jewelry should be stamped with the hallmark 925 and should only be purchased from established jewelry stores, not from beach hawkers or sidewalk vendors.</p> <p>You may even find fake tequila. As Mexico’s national drink, it’s a very popular souvenir, but you’ll want to check the label to ensure that it is 100% agave and that the brand is reputable (the same goes when ordering in a restaurant).</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/souvenir-stalls-mexico-scams.jpg" alt="Souvenir stalls at the Teotihuacan ancient site in Mexico." /> <figcaption>Items for sale at major tourist sites may make great souvenirs, but you aren't likely to find authentic treasures. Image credit: Getty Images / Sindre Elligsen</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="operators">Dodgy tour operators</h2> <p>Another popular scam around the world that also occurs in Mexico is a dodgy tour operator trying to bill you for damages that you didn’t cause. For instance, you’re staying in <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/southern-baja-beyond-los-cabos">Baja California Sur</a> or <a href="/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/is-cancun-safe">Cancun</a> for a sun and fun vacation and you rent a jet ski for a few hours. You hire an operator, pay them, then return the jet ski a few hours later. It’s at this point that the operator blames you for damaging the jet ski and threatens to call the police. They say you could get jail time unless you pay them cash on the spot (in which case, they wouldn’t call the police).</p> <p>Fake jet ski damage claims are common, and you may encounter it at beaches all around Mexico (especially popular tourist destinations). However, it could also happen if you rent a bicycle, scooter, or any other equipment so only hire a reputable operator and document any existing damage before using it.</p> <h2 id="tips">General safety and scam-avoidance tips</h2> <ul> <li>Only rent equipment and go on tours with reputable operators.</li> <li>If you’re seeking authentic handicrafts or jewelry, only buy from reputable stores, not street stalls or beach vendors.</li> <li>Only use ATMs inside banks and reputable hotels.</li> <li>If approached by police, request their credentials.</li> <li>Never attempt to bribe a police officer.</li> <li>Only carry what you need – leave additional cash and valuables in your hotel safe.</li> <li>If you are robbed, call 911 immediately. If you plan to file an insurance claim, you may need to produce a police report.</li> <li>Stick to tourist areas and well-lit streets.</li> <li>Avoid walking alone, particularly at night.</li> <li>Don’t wear flashy clothing, jewelry, or watches.</li> <li>Rely on official taxis and rideshares like Uber instead of hailing cabs.</li> <li>If a fake police officer approaches you and requests documents, demands you pay a fine, or that you accompany them somewhere – don’t go. Instead, contact emergency services through 911.</li> </ul>GettyImages/ferrantraite 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/mexico-disasters-and-dangersHurricanes, volcanoes, earthquakes and and dangerous rip currents. Here's what to look out for and stay safe while exploring Mexico.2020-10-20T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/mexico-disasters-and-dangershttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#hurricanes">Hurricanes</a></li> <li><a href="#earthquakes">Earthquakes</a></li> <li><a href="#volcano">Volcanoes</a></li> <li><a href="#air">Air Pollution</a></li> <li><a href="#land">Dangerous wildlife</a></li> <li><a href="#ocean">Ocean safety</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="hurricanes">Hurricanes</h2> <p>Like much of the Caribbean, Mexico's hurricane season is between June and November, with most activity between August and October, affecting the Pacific Coast, Yucatan Peninsula and Gulf Coast. Severe storms, mudslides, landslides, and flooding usually follow hurricanes, with coastal areas experiencing the most damage.</p> <p>If a hurricane strikes while you are in Mexico, you should get plenty of warning so you can prepare to evacuate or ride it out. Keep an eye on local news reports and social media, and always follow instructions from local authorities. For more tips on how to prepare, <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/how-to-survive-a-hurricane">read our article on hurricane safety.</a></p> <h2 id="earthquakes">Earthquakes</h2> <p>Due to Mexico's location, on the Cocos-North American plate boundary in the Pacific Ring of Fire, the country has a history of earthquakes; many of them catastrophic, causing significant damage and taking many lives. Some of them have caused <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/how-to-survive-a-tsunami">tsunamis</a> which have flooded miles inland.</p> <p>On average, Mexico experiences 4,200 earthquakes each year with a magnitude of 4.5 or more. Such is the strength of some of these earthquakes that in 2017, a 8.2 magnitude quake <a href="https://www.iflscience.com/environment/mexicos-huge-2017-earthquake-split-a-tectonic-plate-in-two-baffling-geologists/">ruptured the Cocos tectonic plate</a>.</p> <p>Most of Mexico's quakes occur on the Pacific Coast, home to popular destinations such as Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita and Acapulco.</p> <p>While the likelihood of experiencing a major earthquake in Mexico is low, it's important that you know what to do should you find yourself rattling and rolling.</p> <p>For more information, <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/how-to-survive-an-earthquake-travel-safety-tips">read our expert tips</a> on earthquake preparation, survival and post-event tips.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/mexico/earthquake2017-izanbar.jpg" /><figcaption>Image: GettyImages/izanbar. Mexico City damaged building after the 2017 earthquake.</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="volcano">Volcanoes</h2> <p>There are approximately 3,000 volcanoes in Mexico, however, only 48 are considered active. Popocatepetl, near Mexico City, is Mexico's largest volcano, and roared to life In December 2018, spewing ash and volcanic gases into the air. Mexico's National Center for Prevention of Disasters rates <span>Popocatepetl at a level 2 alert (showing signs of unrest), and the volcano is closed off to the public due to the ongoing risk of pyroclastic material eruption. On the Jalisco/Colima border, 77 miles (125km) south of Guadalajara, Volcan de Colima is also closed to the public, with a 5-mile-radius (8km) exclusion zone in place.</span></p> <p>Pay attention to local news reports and government warnings about any volcano in Mexico. While hiking up a volcano might be a great way to see Mexico's natural landscape, it's not a great place to be if the volcano decides to wake up. Do not disobey any volcano closures.</p> <h2 id="air">Air pollution</h2> <p>In major cities such as Mexico City, Monterrey, Puebla, Toluca and Salamanca, air pollution can be a concern for travelers, particularly those with respiratory difficulties.  Mexico City's high altitude, and its location in a valley surrounded by mountains and volcanoes, allow air pollution to linger. The pollution is at its worst between March and June. Anyone with lung, respiratory or heart problems should be cautious when traveling during these months and carry the necessary respiratory relief medications.</p> <h2 id="land">Dangerous wildlife in Mexico</h2> <p>Aside from the obvious risk of mosquitos in parts of Mexico, there are other critters that can bite or give you a nasty sting.</p> <h3>Snakes</h3> <p>Mexico is home to hundreds of snake species, a small number of which are dangerous to humans, such as coral snakes and vipers. If you are planning to visit jungle areas or hike in mountainous spots, always wear closed-in shoes, and stick to well-worn paths. Usually, the vibration from your footfall tends to send any snake on its way. Should you be bitten by a snake, immobilize the affected limb and seek medical treatment immediately. Carry a travel first aid kit.</p> <h3>Scorpions</h3> <p>There are more than 200 species of scorpion in Mexico but, thankfully, only eight are dangerous to humans. The warmer months are the prime time for scorpion activity, as they thrive in the tropical heat. Mostly nocturnal, you'll rarely see these guys when you're out and about during the day. Scorpions will only sting if they feel threatened, so if you leave them alone, they will leave you alone.</p> <p>Unfortunately, scorpions like spiders, like to hide in dark, warm places such as shoes, sleeping bags and bags. Before putting your shoes on each day (particularly if you are in a scorpion-prone area) give them a good tap and shake. Open up and shake your sleeping bag if you are camping. Take care when looking in your bags for things and keep them secured so scorpions can't crawl in.</p> <p>If you do get stung by a scorpion, apply a cold pack or ice to the sting site and seek medical attention.</p> <h2 id="ocean">Ocean safety in Mexico</h2> <p>Each year, locals and visitors drown at popular beach holiday spots across Mexico due to the conditions, rips or drunken misadventures.</p> <p>Puerto Vallarta has rock-lined shores, which can make swimming or snorkeling hazardous, especially if water conditions are a bit rough. Jellyfish can also be a hazard, leaving you with a nasty sting.</p> <p>Strong rip currents and swells can swiftly sweep you out to sea in places like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and many other coastal holiday spots.</p> <p>The majority of beaches across Mexico aren't patrolled so if you are staying somewhere without lifeguards, always ask locals where the safest swimming spot is, or only swim where lifeguards have designated as the safest spot on the beach. Some patrolled beaches have a colored flag system which lets you know if it's safe to swim or not.</p> <p>If the beach is closed, it's closed for a good reason. It may not look rough out there, but sometimes continuous rips can make conditions unfavorable for using the ocean.</p> <p>Should you find yourself getting carried out in a rip, here are some tips to help you survive:</p> <ul> <li>Don't panic. A rip will flow against the waves, back out to sea, so if you swim parallel to the beach into the breaking waves, after just a few meters you can often swim out of it.</li> <li>You can also float and go with the rip, because it will often disperse just beyond the breakers; as long as you are a strong swimmer you can get yourself back to shore.</li> <li>If you are in trouble and need help, float, raise one arm up in the air, wave and call for help.</li> </ul>GettyImages/©fitopardo.com 0 An erupting volcano in Mexico

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/mexico-kidnapping-and-other-crimesSerious crimes such as express kidnapping can happen in Mexico. Here's what visitors need to know and how to stay safe.2019-02-06T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-america/mexico/mexico-kidnapping-and-other-crimeshttps://www.worldnomads.com<p><strong>Before <a href="/explore/guides/mexico-nomads-guide" target="_blank" title="Download our free guide to Mexico">traveling to Mexico</a> don't forget to check government travel advisories for noted kidnapping hotspots in case you need to avoid certain areas.</strong></p> <h2>Express kidnapping in Mexico</h2> <p>While the majority of victims are locals, criminals are increasingly targeting more and more travelers for <em>secuestro exprés</em> or express kidnapping, particularly in urban areas of Mexico. <a href="https://www.vox.com/2018/5/11/17276638/mexico-kidnappings-crime-cartels-drug-trade" target="_blank" title="Vox.com">News reports indicate that the increase in kidnappings in Mexico since 2005</a> is largely fueled by the drug trade and a surge in the number of criminal gangs. This crime is also not exclusive to Mexico, <a href="/travel-safety/south-america/colombia/kidnapping-in-colombia-are-you-a-target" target="_blank" title="Kidnapping in Colombia">as the risk is widespread across Latin America</a>. Authorities believe drug cartels are choosing express kidnappings as a way to get high volume, low reward income compared to long-term hostage-ransom situations.</p> <h2>How does it happen?</h2> <p>This crime occurs when a traveler hails what they think is a legitimate taxi cab. The cab is instead being driven by a local criminal who has borrowed the taxi and will take you to an ATM to force you to withdraw cash. The driver may also take your valuables; sometimes they’ll call your family and ask for a ransom payment.</p> <p>Normally, these criminals let their victims go after a trip to the cash machine. These kidnappings can happen in other areas including the Metro. Another kidnapping method is of the virtual kind. Criminals call future victims saying they‘re police officials and that they have one of the person‘s family members in jail. They will ask for payment to have the person released.</p> <p>If you do fall foul of a kidnapper, it’s vital that you do not resist. As much as it’s an inconvenience losing your valuables, they can be replaced, you can’t.</p> <h2>How to reduce the risk of being kidnapped in Mexico</h2> <p>To reduce your risk of being kidnapped, book a taxi over the phone or use official <em>sitio</em> ranks at airports. Try to use only ATMs indoors in public places like malls or inside banks during the day. Travelers have also reported incidences of being robbed by gangs after changing money at airports, so avoid exchanging money there.</p> <ul> <li>If you are kidnapped, do what they ask of you</li> <li>Do your best to memorise faces or number plates – these details are crucial for police when solving crimes or identifying who was behind it all</li> <li>As soon as you are dropped off and the criminals have left, find a police station and report the crime.</li> </ul> <h3>If you've been the victim of a kidnapping, do you have any tips to share with our community?</h3>Getty Images/Siqui Sanchez - Contributor 1 Getty Images