You have heard the horror stories about travelling to Mexico, the risk of too much tequila, the dodgy fish tacos that will repeat on you.
Or maybe movies like We’re the Millers or The Counselor, full of drug smuggling dangerous Cartel gangs, have made you reconsider.
To experience the best of Mexico’s rich culture and culinary delights you don’t need to be armed, except with these few travel tips from Travel Insurance Direct’s Travel Safety Specialist, Phil Sylvester, for a safe Mexican getaway.
Avoid travelling at night or alone
If you are travelling by car, avoid travelling after dark. This is especially critical if you are traveling on toll-free roads. Though highway bandits have become less common, it’s better to avoid the risk altogether.
Learn key safety phrases
Though many people in Mexico speak English, especially in popular travel destinations, it’s a good idea to learn a few key phrases. When it comes to safety, travellers should at the very least know and understand the following words –
emergencia = emergency (pronounced “emm ehr hen zee uh”)
peligro = danger (pronounced “peh lee grow”)
ayuda = help (pronounced “ah you duh”)
Be careful about what you eat and drink
Though the water quality in Mexico has improved in recent years (especially in popular travel destinations) it’s safest to avoid drinking tap water. If you’re visiting a rural area, be sure to use bottled or boiled water when brushing your teeth. At restaurants, stick to bottled beverages and avoid ordering any uncooked food items like salads, especially outside the major tourist zones.
Update your vaccinations
The recommended vaccines for Mexico are fairly common and include the following: Hepatitis A, typhoid, MMR and Tetanus-Diptheria. Malaria is a risk throughout the year, particularly in the state of Chiapas, in rural areas of Nayarit, Oaxaca and Sinaloa, and in some parts of Chihuahua, Durango, and Sonora.
Be smart about valuables and cash
Mexico has a high crime rate. Petty theft is common so keep money in a money belt and only small amounts on you at any one time. Don’t leave your belongings unattended in public.
