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Are Vacations to Mexico Safe? Recent Travel Advisories PLUS Four Tips for a Safe Vacation
As a travel advisor, I get this question often and understandably so. In today’s world we need to be more cautious for our own safety. I can say from personal experience that when I travel to Mexico I feel 100% safe and you can too!
Lately some of the media incorrectly reported on that the United States Department of State (DOS) issued a new travel advisory to Mexico after eight dead bodies were found this week in the popular destination of Cancun. This statement is not entirely true.
Yes - the Department of State did release a new travel advisory to Mexico.
Yes - there was a homicide with eight victims.
No - the travel adversary was not released in response to this homicide.
According to the Department of State’s website: “Homicides [in Quintana Roo] appeared to be targeted, criminal organization assassinations, turf battles between criminal groups have resulted in violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens. Shooting incidents injuring or killing bystanders have occurred.”
Out of the five travel warnings (with 5 at do not travel) Mexico is at a Level 2. Level 2 warning to “exercise increased caution” for Quintana Roo state — which includes the tourist areas of Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and the Riviera Maya — was already posted on the State’s advisory listing and does not reflect the recent string of murders, as some media reports indicate.
Last August I took my vacation in Mexico and felt safe 100% of the time. In fact, I just returned from a conference in Cancun! I traveled as a solo female! I know some of you must think I am crazy! Heck - maybe I am! Here are four tips that I use when traveling to Mexico that help me feel more safe:
1 - Stay on Property as much as possible - We stayed on the resort property 90% of our vacation. We did not tour the city “on our own.” Many resorts in Mexico you do not need to leave property! There is everything you need right there - waterparks and kids clubs, a variety of dining options, nightly entertainment, and even shopping! However; if you really want to get out and experience the local area see the next tip.
2 - Pre-Book Excursions with a preferred supplier - Avoid hailing cabs off the street. When we did tour excursions we booked them through one of White Glove Destinations preferred suppliers. Your safety is our #1 concern! We have built strong relationships with our suppliers. We have done tour excursions with them on our own vacations so that we know what we are booking you on is up to White Glove Destinations standards. I personally have used Amstar twice and feel comfortable traveling with them.
3 - Purchase some type of travel protection plan - At White Glove Destinations, we also will suggest that you purchase trip insurance. Emergencies and unexpected things can happen, when you purchase a trip protection plan you’ll have peace of mind that some level of coverage could assist with the final impact of those things. From something as small as lost luggage, to a medical emergency, to a natural disaster….a travel protection plan may cover you when you need it. Personally, I never travel without one. Yes, even to Disney! You never know if you’ll twist your ankle because you’re trying to be the first in line for Space Mountain and end up in urgent care.
4 - Know all the facts and educate yourself - Before you decide to cancel your family vacation to Mexico make sure you know what is true and what is false. While the media is good for getting information quickly, they sometimes do not get all the facts correctly. Checking with a valid source will provide you with the most up to date information. For more information please see the U.S. Department of State - Travel Advisories website.
Having worked for Walt Disney World and living minutes from the Orlando theme parks, Hallie has picked up countless insider tips and tricks. However, her passion for travel doesn’t end with Disney – she would be honored to plan your next dream vacation! Whether it be Mexico, Hawaii, Caribbean, or even a cruise, she will tailor your vacation to fits your wants and needs. Being diagnosed with Celiac Disease, Hallie understands the severity of traveling with food allergies. She can help arrange any special food accommodations you need during your vacation! Hallie is a proud graduate from Metropolitan State University with a bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Tourism and Even management with a minor is sales. She is also a College of Disney Knowledge Graduate, Certified Orlando Travel Expert, Universal Orlando Resort Specialist, Viking Master Cruise Expert, Emerald/Scenic River Cruises Specialist, Sandals Certified Specialist, AMResorts Master Agent, Hawaii Vacation Specialist, Royal Caribbean Cruise Expert, Autism Certified Travel Specialist and CLIA Member
