If you are planning to visit Mexico, you need to know how to travel safely. To begin with, it is recommended that you plan your arrival in the daytime and leave at least two or three hours before the sun sets. Arriving after the sun goes down can be very unsafe. Also, it is important to be careful not to reveal too much personal information. If you have any doubts, trust your instinct.
Avoid dangerous spots in Mexico City
It is important for tourists to avoid certain areas when they visit Mexico City. The historic center is a particularly dangerous area, and you should be extra vigilant. Don’t go down alleys on your own, and stay away from areas such as the Merced and Tepito. These neighborhoods are known for pickpocketing.
Be sure to carry a cell phone and a power bank while traveling to Mexico City. Travelers can easily get lost in the maze of streets and buildings in Mexico City, so a smartphone with data is essential. Using Google Maps on your smartphone can help you find your way. You can also buy a SIM card in Mexico, which is very cheap. It is advisable to go with Telcel, which offers the best coverage.
As with any other city, you’ll want to avoid areas where crime is prevalent. Mexico City is home to the country’s highest crime rate, but it’s not the most dangerous. In fact, Mexico City’s crime rate hasn’t decreased since the health crisis, although many crime cases are still linked to organized crime. While there are still many interesting places to explore in Mexico City, you need to know the best areas to avoid if you want to stay safe.
While Mexico City is known for its low crime rate, tourists should always be vigilant in popular tourist areas. There is a high rate of petty theft, and you should stay away from busy areas where people tend to loiter. In addition, you should also avoid protests, which can be violent. Also, be aware of natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes, as they can strike unexpectedly. If you want to travel safe, consider hiring a tour guide or a private tour.
Avoid traveling at night
Traveling in Mexico during the night can be hazardous for drivers and passengers. Often, criminal trafficking rings operate at night, and the lack of street lighting increases the risk of an accident. In addition, local roads may not be paved and may have potholes or damaged shoulders. Also, many rural routes lack street lights, so drivers need to be extra vigilant.
The best time to travel is during the day, as the traffic can be much less chaotic. However, if you absolutely must travel during the night, you should consider using a taxi or using a transportation app. You should also avoid walking after dark, especially if you are going to a restaurant.
Driving at night is not only dangerous, but it can also be more difficult to get emergency services in the event of an accident. Traffic laws in Mexico are not enforced as strictly as those in the United States, so be on the lookout for cars running stop signs or driving in unpredictable ways. While the speed limit in Mexico is usually between 25 and 50 miles per hour, the highway speed limit can be as high as 68 miles per hour.
Traveling alone at night can also put you at risk of physical assaults. Many locations have reports of physical attacks against tourists, so it’s best to avoid these areas. In addition to avoiding traveling alone in the dark, make sure you keep your wallet out of sight. It’s also important to avoid taking public transportation at night. Instead, take a taxi or use a ride app, and always wear something modest.
Avoid traveling on free roads
When traveling in Mexico, it’s important to avoid free roads and highways at night. Cars are often not well lit and cargo trucks are often the victims of robberies. It’s safer to drive on paved highways and main roads, which are known as cuotas (pay-toll roads). Compared to the free roads, these are better maintained and safer.
While free roads may be tempting, they can also be dangerous. They’re often populated with cattle, potholes, and other hazards. While some of these may be harmless, they can cause a major accident if you’re not careful. You may also run into problems when you hit a tope while speeding, which can damage your car. Also, it’s safer to stick to paid roads, like highways, when traveling at night.
Avoid traveling with kids
Taking your children on vacation can be challenging, but there are some precautions that you should take. First, make sure your kids’ passports are current, and make photocopies if necessary. You should also consider buying travel insurance for them. Children do not need any special vaccinations to travel to Mexico or Belize, but you should still be prepared for any emergencies. You should also bring enough clothes for your children and their favorite toys. In addition, you should bring maps and kid’s activity books to keep your child busy.
If you are planning to drive to Mexico, make sure your licence is valid. You should also avoid riding on intercity buses, which can be unsafe. Even if these buses are regulated, the crime rate is high after dark. You should also check with local authorities if you’re pregnant. In addition, it is important to ask about the Zika virus, especially if you’re traveling with small children. Insect-borne diseases and air pollution are other potential health risks.
If you’re planning to bring your children on your vacation to Mexico, you’ll need to make sure they wear sunscreen that has a high protection factor. The sun’s rays can penetrate even the clouds, so your child’s skin will be exposed to UV rays. You can buy sunscreen from a local pharmacy, but make sure your child is wearing a hat and wearing appropriate clothing for the weather. Similarly, do not let your kids drink the local tap water, as it could lead to dehydration or sleep disturbances.
Avoiding scams
When traveling to Mexico, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. It’s common for pickpockets to pick off tourists who’re distracted by things around them. Be especially alert when taking public transportation, especially during rush hours. Pickpockets lurk in corners and wait for travelers to get off the train or metro.
While taxis are a common form of transportation, they can also be a source of scams. It’s wise to negotiate the price of a cab before getting into the car. You can also use the ADO bus, which is a cheap and convenient way to travel around the country. Make sure to take note of the taxi’s number so you can call or send it to a friend in case of emergency. In addition, you should know the name of the driver so you can identify him in case of an emergency.
If you’re traveling in Mexico on your own, be aware of pickpockets. The majority of them are poor and desperate, so they’re going to approach you for money. However, some of them are mentally unstable or are part of a scam. If you come across such a person, you should never give him money. Even if the person seems honest, they could end up getting violent.
The best way to avoid these scams is to know the local currency. Be wary of people who change larger bills for smaller ones. Always check your change, and always negotiate prices when you can. When paying for food, don’t be impulsive when trying to find change. Try not to pay for alcoholic beverages when you are under the influence.
