How To Keep Yourself And Your Property Safe While Vacationing In Mexico
When traveling to Mexico for a vacation, it is good to be mindful that you are in a foreign country and that some areas may not be as safe and secure as your hometown. While most of Mexico is very safe for visitors, you should always be proactive in protecting yourself and your property while traveling. Hotel employees, tour operators, taxi drivers and others involved in the tourist industry have their best interests invested in keeping you safe and secure, but there are always those who may take advantage.
When walking in public markets and shopping areas, it is always best to keep a low profile while at the same time appearing confident. Walk with a sense of purpose and avoid looking lost, even if you are, as this will be a signal to unscrupulous types that you might be an easy mark. Don’t wear eye-catching jewelry or flash a lot of cash for the same reason. A middle-class look will work best as it doesn’t stand out as much, but still elicits respect. If you appear to be intoxicated, sick, tired, or physically weak you may become targeted for foul play.
It would pay to be extra cautious at night or in locations where there aren’t many people present. If you plan on going out at night, inquire at your hotel’s front desk about any areas that would be best to avoid and make sure to take a taxi or a tour rather than walk or hitchhike. Be vigilant when you use an ATM at night and make sure you always have someone with you. Also, some bars and clubs may have criminal elements that may try to drug your drink or try to isolate you somewhere where they can relieve you of your possessions. If this unfortunate event does happen to you, just let the money go and most muggers will not act violently towards you. Always remember that your life is much more important than any money, no matter how much.
Because of the sometimes unstable political unrest in Mexico, protests or political rallies can take place, often without much warning. The best action to be taken here is to simply leave immediately or avoid an area where such activities are happening. The Mexican Constitution states that foreigners cannot participate in political activities and can be deported or detained if they do. You may not intend to participate, but if you were present the case might be hard to prove otherwise and, in any case, it is not worth the risk.
Make sure you use the in-room safe in your hotel room for any excess cash, valuables, and your travel documentation. Don’t leave anything that can’t be replaced lying around your room, as a dishonest hotel employee can easily take it. Simple, common sense decisions that you would use at home regarding your personal safety and your property are a good rule of thumb to go by while you are traveling. By being vigilant, always traveling with a buddy, and sticking to high traffic areas you can keep yourself and your property safe while vacationing in Mexico.
I liked this article because I think the lessons are applicable outside of Mexico (any strange place, really) . I think that keeping a low profile among strangers can go a long way. No matter how friendly people seem, watch yourself and especially young children.
Thanks for the info, I am going to mexico in 2 weeks on vacation.
Hey
I realy appriciate your idea to safe your proprty & youeslef also.
I read the Survival comments also but he is absolutly right.
I think Survival Gear is spot on here, as this applies to so many countries, especially the tourist hotspots. Just showing a small degree of vigilance can make all the difference. Money can always be replaced, and that is the reason you should always get insured before you go.
Great advice,and aplicable anywhere, as survival gear said. I’m originally from the Caribbean and it’s amazing how much tourists find themselves in bad situations simply because they are either too trusting or go out of their way to stand out.
Great post and very good universal points that apply on any vacation. Flashing excessive cash, looking sick or lost may lead to serious problems so always be care full and take every thing seriously while traveling to any location other then your home town.
greatttt
This is great advice for anybody who is planning on going to Mexico. While Mexico is not as dangerous as todays news would have you believe (if you don’t count the areas near the U.S. border), it is still wise to take precautions.
You should be careful of things like this in any foreign country, not just in Mexico. One good tip is to always carry a $50 or $100 bill in your wallet. That way if you do run into trouble, the ability to hand over that cash may protect your well being.
Some really good pointers here which should come in handy when travelling all over the world. The best piece of advice in my opinion is to appear confident when walking around crowded tourist areas. Some of the locals looking to scam or trick will be well practiced in finding inexperienced or vulnerable travelers so it’s best to look as though you know what you are doing as well as where you are going.
Another great point is the damaging effects alcohol can have on people’s judgment. Drinking with friends is fine as you know you will be well looked after but going out alone and having a few too many with the locals could end in tears.
Alex – Hostel Booking
I agree that one of the big things you have to watch is appearing too much like a tourist. There are shady cons and thieves in every country. They usually prey on vulnerable people who look like easy targets.
You should also be careful with how flashy you are. If you’re wearing expensive clothes and/or jewelry, you become a tempting target. Definitely be discrete with any cash you are carrying.
thanks for shairing these information
I used to want to go, Beautifull country,
yes, i heard many street crimes in mexico even in nearest places to mexico. Your article is really helpful in these cases.
Fantastic information,and aplicable at any place, as survival gear said. I’m originally from the Carribbean and it is incredible just how much vacationers end up in terrible situations simply because they are either too trusting or venture out of their way to be noticeable.
This article is even more applicable today with the drug cartels’ violence. It is best to not look wealthy. I also agree with the comment made by survival gear, this is great advice to follow in any foreign country.
This is a great article specific to Mexico, and the teachings can be applied over the board to whichever country you are visiting.
Having been the victim of crime myself a couple of times while travelling around Europe, I welcome any safety advice, thank you.
We’ve been considering goint to Mexico and this article had us think about lots of things. Thank you