This is a hard one. The food is usually cooked FAST and from fresh ingredients. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Baja California Sur, which includes tourist areas in:Cabo San Lucas,San Jose del Cabo,andLa Paz. Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following area with the noted restrictions: U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Guerrero, includingAcapulco,Zihuatanejo, andIxtapa. Though nearly everyone is a target in this country, being single makes you even more appealing to opportunistic criminals. The city offers all types of activities from swimming to diving, snorkeling, and fishing. With the proper habits and some extra attention, Mexico is safe for solo travelers. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Basically, its all about being sensible and avoiding any dangerous situations. Who are we kidding, its more than fine its amazing! Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism. Here are a few pointers to help you do that. The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Theres the question of whether its even safe to visit Mexico in the first place, whether the public transport is safe, whether its safe for children well even cover the all-important can I use Uber in Mexico?. If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. In some cases, the victims were involved in criminal activity in the area, in other cases they were just passing through. Gang violence, often associated with the theft of petroleum and natural gas from the state oil company and other suppliers, occurs in Guanajuato, primarily in the south and central areas of the state. Travel on Highway 5 is permissible during daylight hours. See state summaries and advisory levels below for information on your specific travel destination. The Mexican government has not tracked the numbers, testing is almost non-existent and the locals are not masking or distancing. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Wed recommend beingaway from border towns as this tends to be a hotbed for gang-related violence. Itll save you aload of time when organising transport and youll probably nab an EPIC DISCOUNT too! But since its not exactly the smallest region, weve only listed the safest areas below. Gang warfare is basically just that: violence between gangs. Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market andditch the plastic. While the rating and review system of the booking platform definitely offers the safest standards, you can still put yourself at risk if you book a place in a sketchy area. On Tuesday, Mexican Federal health authorities reported another 7,172 new Covid-19 as the third wave of the coronavirus gathers pace. Law enforcement capacity is greater in the tri-city area of Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira, which has a lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state. Dont leave your belongings out of sight DONT resist when youre being robbed! Dont walk around alone at night! Violent crime and gang activity are common. Last Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Featuring luxurious spas, golf courses, and beautiful beaches, Cabo San Lucas is one of the luxury hotspot destinations in Mexico. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has determined Mexico has a high level of COVID-19. This doesnt mean you shouldnt drink plenty of water. Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Jalisco state. After reading it, youll be far more prepared to travel to Mexico and to have an absolute blast while youre there. Alternatively, bring water purification tablets or a Grayl Geopress to make the water safe for yourself. Avoid these things in Mexico to add another level of safety to your trip: Stay away from drugs! Organized crime activity including gun battles, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, forced disappearances, extortion, and sexual assault is common along the northern border and in Ciudad Victoria. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees. Of particular concern is the high number of homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. Unless youre looking for trouble in Mexico, it shouldnt come looking for you. Almonte does not believe that visitors would be targeted directly, but he is concerned that they may become collateral damage. . As long as you do your research on the area you want to stay at, you should have a perfectly fine trip. Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping. Especially in remote areas, these are not always official and will demand cash in exchange for being able to pass. Theres plenty of them around and theyre pretty cheap. Petty theft is common and kidnappings are not exactly rare. We love the knowledge that our content keeps you adventuring. But remember that with every action there is a consequence. A bad reputation should not mean you dismiss a whole country! Also be open to whatever that may happen. People will be warm and welcoming. No matter where you are in Mexico, it always pays off to use your travel common sense. Theres more likely to be pickpockets (and more) down here then. Be prepared for what life throws at you. No. A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic booooring. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S government employees to:Guadalajara Metropolitan Area,Puerto Vallarta (including neighboring Riviera Nayarit),Chapala, andAjijic. Get the best price for the best ride then use those savings to buy the best feed in town! Mexico can be very hospitable, but just as it can be nice, it could take the wrong turn very fast. Join the Tribe. Gang activity and drug-related crimes are the biggest safety threat in Mexico. Do not wear expensive watches or jewelry. Statistically, there are many more dangers involved in visiting somewhere like Mexico than there are of visiting countries like Switzerland or Japan. U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Chihuahua, includingCopper Canyon. Book your transport on Bookaway NOW. Car jacking is a daly occurrence and so are drive by shootings! If it does, stay well out of the way. In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities. U.S. government employees may only travel from Ciudad Juarez to Chihuahua City during daylight hours via Federal Highway 45, with stops permitted only at the Federal Police station, the Umbral del Mileniooverlook area, the border inspection station at KM 35, and the shops and restaurants on Federal Highway 45 in the town of Villa Ahumada. Robberies and pickpocketing (especially on public transport) are the only threat in touristy but these are fully avoidable. On Tuesday, December 7, the first COVID-19 booster shots became available for residents aged 60 and over in Mexico City. Use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER for a $10 discount. However, starting in January 2022, all incoming passengers will have to be vaccinated. The rest of the states are green, so all activities are permitted. Last month, Mexico registered some of the highest numbers of daily COVID-19 incidence since the beginning of the pandemic. I LIVE in Baja California normally but have been staying in the states because of COVID and crime. Violent crime and gang activity occur with increasing frequency in Veracruz, particularly in the center and south near Cordoba and Coatzacoalcos. No, Mexico is not too dangerous to visit if you use your common travel sense. Related: Is it safe to travel to Cancun? U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Do your research first, read the reviews and youll be perfectly safe. Thank you for your support . Mexico Citys bus system is unregulated. Campeche state Exercise Normal Precautions, Chiapas state Exercise Increased Caution. We dont ask for money, but if youd like to find out how you can help the site in more organic ways, click the button below. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Theyre either metered, or not, and you either pay per kilometer or per zone. Most visitors to Mexico are unaffected by crime thanks to how removed it is from touristy destinations. While not directed at tourists, shootings between rival gangs have killed or injured innocent bystanders. Investigators have not yet determined if the victims were long-term residents or visitors, although they are believed to have been in the area for several months. Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Morelos state. In Guadalajara, territorial battles between criminal groups take place in tourist areas. It is not safe to go to the resorts right now.. Armed marines patrol Cancuns beaches to safeguard local business owners, their establishments, and tourists from organized crime and rising violence. Other Mexican states that you need to be very careful with are: Baja California, Durango, Sinaloa, Guerrero, Chihuahua, Michoacn, Tamaulipas, and Nuevo Len. There are no travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state. Honestly if you want to enjoy travelling around and not worry about getting caught in a crossfire, Mexico will not be the best place to visit right now. Many things mentioned can also be applied when traveling to the USA. Its patrolled by police in the daytime, which is why wed saydont get the metro at night. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_3" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This website uses cookies to improve your experience. More information. The majority of homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. In the past 7 days, there were 11,374 daily new cases, on average. Yep, well say it again:Mexican food is amazing! Avoid it, if you can. What is the One Item Every Traveller NEEDS??? Went there in March this year and got involved in a shooting in the bar street in the (tourist) center of Tulum. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities. Keep traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. Also remember that when you go to Mexico, or any different country, be on your best behaviour and keep your wits about you. You can take Ubers by yourself or with friends. According to the prosecutors office, a security guard at the tourist apartment complex in the city center was also injured. Save $$$ Save the Planet Save Your Stomach! Tribal Bali: The Best Coworking Hostel in the World Has Opened Its Doors. The app includes links and services for emergencies, extortion and kidnapping, robbery, lost or stolen passports, roadside assistance and even a way to file complaints for local tourism service providers. An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Following the report, the security authorities arrested seven Mexican individuals, and seized three firearms and 31 small bags of marijuana, according to the Secretary of Security of the municipality of Solidaridad, where the famous tourist center is located. Well be covering a range of topics in our guide to safety in Mexico. Authorities further stated that the person was wanted worldwide for fraud. Besides enjoying a stress-free holiday, there is also an abundance of snorkeling spots with stunning coral reefs. Id like to see the real Mexico, but that doesnt sound like its possible without huge risk. Then you can just enjoy everything! But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers. Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta are the safest areas to stay in Mexico. Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations. And then let the shenanigans begin. Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. includingCancun,La Paz, and Los Cabos. Its a wild world out there. Click the button below to get a quote on your insurance or read our in-depth review of World Nomads coverage. Global Work & Travel matches you with the best work-travel opportunities. According to reports from the Solidaridad municipal police, the shots were fired between Calle 1 and Calle 14, on the famous Fifth Avenue. This could lead to you being assaulted and/or robbed. . ), culture, family vibes, and big, long, lazy meals of some of the best food in the world. 750 to 800 homicides are committed each year with 7000 to 8000 wounded! Worldpackers trips are insured! Restrictions on U.S. government travel: U.S. government employees may not travel between cities after dark, may not hail taxis on the street, and must rely on dispatched vehicles, including app-based services like Uber, and regulated taxi stands. At the end of the day, it wont be easy but it will be super rewarding. Get to know people and be friendly but dont tell them exactly where youre staying, your address, itinerary. Known aslibre roads, thesecan be winding, less well maintained and sometimes a good hiding place for gangs. The CDC's latest guidance on international travel for vaccinated people can be foundhere. People are very friendly and helpful. While most gang-related violence is targeted, violence perpetrated by criminal organizations can affect bystanders. The same day, Deputy Health Minister Hugo Lpez-Gatell said at a morning press conference that the third wave was on the wane in all 32 states. The US Department has recently warned citizens against traveling to Baja California, Tijuana, Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa and Tamaulipas, due to increasing criminal activity. /* Add your own Mailchimp form style overrides in your site stylesheet or in this style block. Its also very cheap! The first three people were reported injured but they are currently stable. U.S. government employees should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas. Children are a big part of society and youll be well looked after if you travel there with your own in tow. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe! Nuevo Laredo, for example, is terrible right now. It will keep your valuables safe no matter where you go. They should also be prepared to verbally state their reason for travel and vaccination status while boarding. 19 months into the pandemic and the U.S. is finally reopening the border with Mexico for vaccinated tourists. En una rpida intervencin, policas de la Secretara de Seguridad Pblica y Trnsito Municipal de Solidaridad aseguraron a 7 sujetos, luego de un reporte de detonaciones de arma de fuego en la colonia Centro. To help you out a bit, weve listed the absolute no-go areas in Mexico. Dont wear expensive clothing as well as typical Mexican clothing. Vaccines approved by the CDC are Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson. Venturing out to local markets and seeing the life and color of the country is easily done with children. But we do it because we love it we love providing epic and free content. The United States will send Mexico 8.5 million more doses of COVID-19 vaccines as the delta variant spreads like wildfire across all Mexican states. Petty crime occurs frequently in both tourist and non-tourist areas. Ongoing security and protection strategy in place, and is continuing communications with the State Police, alongside federal and local agencies and the private sector to maintain updated security measures to keep a safe and enjoyable environment for residents and visitors. said the Director of the State Tourism Board. I was attacked at the border crossing when a police officer directed me into a trap and I was lucky to get away fro 700 pesos (about $35 US). U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Yes, the food in Mexico is safe and yes: its amazing! Dont even try. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Its popular inMexico Cityas well as several other major cities (several = 46!) Mexico is far more dangerous Id rather travel the us than travel mexico I was born and raised in mexico. Country Summary: Violent crime such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery is widespread and common in Mexico. Living in Mexico wont make you immune from the same sorts of crime that affects tourists. Apart from the capital city, booster shots also rolled out in Jalisco, Chiapas, Oaxaca, Sinaloa, and Yucatn. Travelers may use Highways 2 and 2D to transit between Mexicali, Los Algodones, and San Luis Rio Colorado during daylight hours. That doesnt mean you cant have a safe, enriching trip or even travel alone. Aguascalientes is now the only red state, which means that hotels can only accommodate visitors who are engaged in critical activities.. Tabasco state Exercise Increased Caution. Port of Entry; travel via Anapra is prohibited. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. It is a very gray area and it can be whatever you want it to be. From incredible food to interesting history and one or the other natural wonder, Oaxaca is a great place to have a real adventure. That tip about always complying with your kidnappers is great advice. Read thecountry information page for additional information on travel to Mexico. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S government employees to other parts of Nayarit, including tourist areas in:Riviera Nayarit(includingNuevo Vallarta,Punta Mita,Sayulita, andBahia de Banderas),andSanta Maria del Oro. Mexico is hot and you dont want to get dehydrated. Also read: US Issues Alert Against Traveling To Cancun As Violence Is On The Rise. There can be checkpoints at random places along highways theyll ask to see your drivers license. Investigators found an identification card of the male victim with three different names in the apartment where the remains were discovered. Violent crime and gang activity are common. If in doubt even if its been freshly cooked slather on a load of. Travel to San Jeronimo is permitted only through the United States via the Santa Teresa U.S. If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. Drug-related violence in the northern states of Coahuila, Chihuahua, Durango, Nuevo Leon, Sinaloa, Sonora, and Tamaulipas isnt just about rival gangs, however. It always pays off to do your research of the area you want to visit. Digital Content Manager & Editor - Americans and other foreign visitors, as well as local hospitality employees, have lost their lives in different attacks in the last few months. Mexico is a country thats rich in all sorts of things: food, culture, music, history, nature. Some days ago, prosecutors and police said the remains of two Canadians were found in an apartment in the Mexican resort town of Playa del Carmen, with their necks slashed. There is also a long pedestrian walkway that winds parallel to the sand that is filled with restaurants, cafes, shops, and bars. Wash your hands with hot water (if possible) and soap before eating. Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure dont be daft! While the State Department normally issues a Level 1 to 4 warning for each country in the world based on concern for the overall safety for travelers, the travel advisory for Mexico changed to specific states on May 2. Having your kids with you will help break down barriers between you and locals, making for a more authentic, memorable experience. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Review the. ), Japan Is Open For Tourism But Only Received 1,500 Since Reopening On June 10, Is It Safe To Travel To MEXICO Right Now? Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Coahuila state. Do your own research. It sounds like complete lawlessness. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. What is this forgotten essential of the backpacker-life? Sunhats are a good idea. Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping. On Monday morning, a gunshot occurred on Fifth Avenue in Playa Del Carmen. Itsreallycheap. Be especially cautious when living or backpacking in MexicoCity. Smaller towns dont have metered taxis. Theres also animals on the road, vehicles driving with no lights Its a smorgasbord of hazards and real danger that isnt worth it. Constantly update family and friends of your whereabouts. Obviously not everycantina and food stall is going to have top-notch sanitation, so were here to give you a few pointers when it comes to having the gourmet experience of a lifetime AND not getting ill at the same time. You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State. Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling Mexico. If you want MORE top-tier Broke Backpacker content like this, then sign up for our weekly newsletter below to get the latest and greatest! Dont be afraid to go outside your comfort zone and try something new our mouths are watering just thinking about it. Baja California Sur state Exercise Increased Caution. There is also a turtle sanctuary to visit and the remains of an ancient Mayan temple to explore. The cartels are not very careful about how they kill, he said. https://t.co/Cr9lAr8rl2 pic.twitter.com/CAVGV9CWiB. Dont go there looking for trouble. The cars are clean, the drivers are respectful, they use Google Maps or Waze, you can pay with cash if you like. These in additionto all of the other safety tips weve given you, should be considered when and if you decide to travel to this spellbinding nation.