Is it Safe to Travel to Mexico?

Mexico, with its mariachi music, mezcal cocktails, and mesmerizing landscapes, is a traveler's dream. But let's address the lingering question: Is it all fun and games, or are there hidden hazards lurking beneath the surface? 

Let's cut to the chase: While nearly half of Mexico has received Level 3 or Level 4 ratings from the State Department, indicating travelers should exercise caution or avoid travel, this doesn't mean you should rule out Mexico entirely. There are plenty of peaceful places to explore, such as Mexico City and Quintana Roo. 

Mexico boasts countless tourist attractions and experiences, but it's also crucial to understand the potential risks and how to mitigate them. With AXA by your side, let’s cover everything you need to know to have a safe and enjoyable trip to Mexico. 

Safe Travel Practices 

Before you pack your sunscreen and sombrero, let's talk about keeping your Mexico vacation safe and sound. AXA prioritizes your well-being, so here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind: 

Do Your Homework: Research your destination thoroughly before you go. Learn about local customs, laws, and any potential safety concerns. Being informed is your best defense. 

Stay Connected: Keep loved ones in the loop about your travel plans. Share your itinerary and check in regularly during your trip. It's always good to have someone looking out for you, even from afar. Keep important contact info handy, like local emergency numbers and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. It's always good to have a lifeline in case of an emergency. 

Stay Aware: Be mindful of your surroundings wherever you go. Stay alert, especially in busy tourist spots, and trust your instincts if something feels off. 

Keep Your Valuables Safe: Keep your valuables secure and avoid flaunting expensive items. A little discretion goes a long way. 

Stay informed with STEP:STEP, or the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, is a free service from the U.S. Department of State for Americans traveling abroad. When you sign up, you'll get updates from the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate about any potential risks at your destination. Plus, if there's an emergency, STEP helps the Embassy or Consulate find you and offer the support you need to stay safe. Sign up here.  

Download Guest Assist: If you're heading to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cozumel, or anywhere in Quintana Roo, think about grabbing the Guest Assist app on your phone. It's a handy tool from the Mexican government that gives you info on emergency help and support services for tourists. 

Necessary Vaccinations 

Before you jet off to Mexico, it's essential to make sure your vaccinations are up to date. Ideally, aim to check this off your list at least a few months before your trip. After all, staying healthy is key to enjoying every moment of your Mexican adventure. 

General Recommendations: Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) travel website to get the latest news on infectious diseases at your destination. While no shots are mandatory for Mexico, it's smart to get a few to stay in tip-top shape. For short stays, consider getting covered for Tetanus, Typhoid, and Hepatitis A. If you're planning a trekking adventure or a longer stay, you might want to think about adding Dengue, Rabies, Meningococcal Meningitis, and Hepatitis B to your vaccine roster.  

COVID-19 Considerations: As of May 2024, Mexico has eased its COVID-19 policies. While getting vaccinated is recommended, it's not mandatory. You won't need to provide negative COVID tests, quarantine upon arrival, or wear masks while exploring the country. 

Region-Specific Vaccines: For most tourists in Mexico, the risk of getting malaria is very low. However, in certain parts of the country, especially rural areas, there's a small chance of encountering the parasite. If you're planning to trek through places like Oaxaca, Hiapas, Sinaloa, and others listed, it's wise to think about taking malaria vaccination. These areas can have malaria all year round, so it's essential to be prepared if you're heading there. 

Dangers, Threats, and Alerts 

While most parts of Mexico are safe, it's essential to be aware of potential dangers that may affect your travel plans. Let’s take a closer look at any alerts or concerns you should know about before embarking on your Mexican adventure. 

Violent Crime: Violent crime can happen in any part of Mexico, even in well-known tourist spots. Travelers should stay alert, steer clear of places where illegal activities are known to happen, and leave swiftly if they find themselves in risky situations. Check out the Mexico Travel Advisory for detailed info on safety in each state. 

Transportation: Opt for the subway, plane, light rail, or big buses. Generally, planes and trains are safer than buses as they're involved in fewer accidents. If your budget permits, opting for official taxis or trusted rideshare services like Uber is the most secure way to travel. Avoid hopping into unmarked vehicles to stay safe from scams. Driving yourself comes with its own set of risks, from police demanding bribes to insurance complications. Experts recommend having comprehensive insurance that includes coverage for uninsured motorists and bail. Avoid driving at night to minimize the risk of robbery or accidents.

Food Safety: Keep an eye on what you eat and drink to avoid any unwanted stomach issues during your trip. Stick to bottled water with an unbroken seal and opt for cooked food served hot. Avoid salads or raw vegetables that may have been rinsed in contaminated water. When in doubt, go for fruits you can peel yourself, like bananas, and remember to wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer to stay healthy on your vacation.  

Theft: Avoid leaving valuables lying around in your hotel room unless you've locked them up in the safe. This is especially important in Mexico, where poverty can lead to tempting targets for theft. Always keep your passport tucked away in the hotel safe, whether it's in your room or at the front desk. Additionally, try to avoid drawing attention to valuables where you go in Mexico, like sporting pricey watches or jewelry. 

Counterfeit Medication: Fake medicine is widespread and could be ineffective, too strong, or even harmful. Always consult a doctor and buy your medication from trusted places to get the right treatment. 

Areas to Avoid 

Although most of Mexico is generally safe, it's essential for visitors to be discerning when choosing their destinations. Here's a heads-up on the places in Mexico you might want to think twice about or steer clear of entirely, according to the State Department: 

Do Not Travel: Travel is discouraged in five Mexican states due to rising crime rates and kidnapping incidents. These states include Colima, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas. Guerrero, home to tourist spots like Acapulco and Ixtapa, is also on the "Do Not Travel" list due to widespread crime. 

Reconsider Travel: Think twice about traveling to five Mexican states due to concerns about crime and kidnapping. These states include Sonora Chihuahua, Guanajuato, Jalisco (including Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta), and Baha California. Additionally, Morelos and Durango are also on the "Reconsider Travel" list due to elevated crime levels. 

Exercise Caution When Traveling: U.S. citizens must be extra cautious when traveling to 17 areas in Mexico, mainly due to concerns about crime and occasional kidnapping threats. These areas include Mexico City, Aguascalientes, Hidalgo, Coahuila, Baja California Sur (including Cabo San Lucas, San Jose del Cabo, and La Paz), and Chiapas.  
 
Mexico is a beautiful destination that offers incredible experiences for travelers. By staying informed, taking necessary precautions, and being mindful of local customs, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to this diverse country!