Women are looking for fun girlfriend getaways or inspirational solo trips more and more these days, but our closest international destination is getting a bad rap for drug cartel wars and crime. Security is a legitimate concern wherever you go, but this could be especially daunting if you’re unfamiliar with the country’s geography.
Luckily for us, Mexico is still an open option to enjoy a wonderful beach getaway with your best friend or a culinary cultural trip in a colonial jewel of a city. There is so much diversity here and a memorable journey is just waiting to happen if you only know where to go.
Let’s see what all the fuss is about, where it’s happening, and what this means for you as a traveler.
I’m sure you’ve heard the headlines last year about Mexico being in the midst of a major drug war. Army soldiers patrol the streets of border towns. Journalists have been killed. Cartel members shoot each other in the streets and supermarkets. People are kidnapped. It certainly is ugly in the border towns, also known as the frontier. But did you know that most of Mexico is as safe as ever?
The travel warnings issued by our government actually advise against visiting very specific places where drug cartels are waging their war. Unfortunately, after hearing “warning” and “Mexico City,” many Americans perceive the warning for the country as a whole, which is definitely not the case. The State Department listed several cities as not recommended to visit, including Ciudad Juárez, Tijuana, Nogales, Nuevo Laredo, Monterrey and Matamoros. The worst of the bunch is Ciudad Juárez, which is across the border from El Paso, Texas.
The media have focused their reports on the negative rather than reporting on reality. Mexico is still a very safe country, with the exception of Juárez and the other border towns. The rest of the country enjoys low crime rates compared to any large US city.
So where should you go and how safe are these places? Below is a list I’ve compiled of fantastic destinations within Mexico that you won’t hear about in the news (they’re too busy talking about the bad news).
CANCUN AND THE RIVIERA MAYA
Cancun is by far the most popular beach resort in Mexico and for good reason. Its beaches are impressive, the resorts incredible, the attractions are many and they are on a security scale… It is extremely safe. Exercising common sense is the most important thing here or in any destination. For example, don’t stray from tourist areas, don’t drink too much, avoid walking alone at night, only use public transport or drive on highways during the day, don’t dress in expensive jewelry. It’s just common sense, ladies!
MERIDA AND THE YUCATAN
When people think of the Yucatan region of Mexico, they usually think of the Mayan archaeological site of Chichen Itza, but Merida is a beautiful colonial city that can serve as a base for exploring other Mayan ruins, cenotes, haciendas, and cathedrals. It is an extremely charming city with well organized tours for its visitors. Beyond that, it is known as the safest and quietest in Mexico. Many American and Canadian expats have taken notice and retire here for this reason.
COLONIAL CITIES IN CENTRAL MEXICO
San Miguel de Allende has been a popular destination for wealthy Americans for several decades. This is a bohemian town in the mountains known for its quiet life, cobblestone streets, beautiful architecture and many art galleries. The nearby cities of Guanjuato, Querétaro and Zacatecas are other colonial towns as safe as they are charming.
OAXACA
Oaxaca has much to offer its visitors. It has a driving art scene and boasts some of the best food in the country. Nearby are the ruins of Monte Albán and artisan towns like Teotitlan del Valle, which are very beautiful and safe. Oaxaca also has amazing beaches and tourist towns like Huatulco and Puerto Escondido.
VALLARTA PORT
Think of a beautiful colonial city by the beach. This wonderful former hillside fishing village is now filled with elegant hotels, restaurants, art galleries and bars. Puerto Vallarta is safe, but common sense is recommended here. Stay in tourist areas and don’t walk alone at night.
THE CAPES
The region is very safe, with good roads and bustling towns. Many Americans visit this place every year, while others have even made it their home. Luxury resorts have spread across its stretch of beaches offering all-inclusive vacations. There is also a popular artsy town called Todos Santos about 45 minutes from the popular destination of Cabo San Lucas.
If you’re considering a trip soon, the best thing to do is figure out what kind of vacation you’re looking for. Mexico is an expansive country with many varied regions and destinations to satisfy all interests. It’s a matter of knowing a little geography and packing with a sense of adventure mixed with some common sense. Good trip!
