In this blog post I share my thoughts on whether I think Mexico is currently safe for solo travel and share some tips for ensuring safety when traveling around Mexico.
In early March 2023 in the Mexican border town of Matamoros, 4 Black American tourist were abducted in broad daylight. Several days later, two of them were found murdered, one was injured and the other physically unharmed. There was significant coverage of this story in both USA press and in Mexico. This story really hit close to home for many of us because we are unused to seeing people that look like us in a news story such as this one. This incident resurfaced the age old question of whether Mexico is safe for travel. The reality is that bad things can happen to any of us at anytime anywhere. Matamoros is considered one of the most dangerous places in Mexico. It is unclear whether the Americans were aware of how dangerous was when they drove over the border but my heartbreaks for them and their families. In a recent YouTube Live I share my thoughts on whether I think Mexico is safe for solo travel.
Mexico is a beautiful and diverse country with a rich culture and history, making it a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. However, safety concerns have caused many solo travelers, especially those who are Black women over 50, to question whether it’s safe to travel to Mexico alone. In this blog post, we will explore the safety considerations for solo travelers in Mexico and recommend some non-beach destinations and less touristy beach locations that are worth considering for travel and are known to be safe destinations for solo travel.
Firstly, safety should always be a top priority when traveling alone, regardless of your destination. Mexico has a reputation for being dangerous due to drug cartel violence, but the reality is that most of the violence occurs in specific areas, primarily along the US-Mexico border. The Mexican government has taken steps to improve security in tourist areas, and many popular destinations are considered safe for visitors. However, it is still essential to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night or in unfamiliar areas.
For Black women over 50, it’s also important to be aware of potential cultural differences that may impact your experience. While I have never personally experienced any racism in Mexico, racism and discrimination exist in Mexico, as they do in many other countries, and some travelers may face microaggressions or other forms of mistreatment. However, Mexico is one of the most welcoming and friendly countries I’ve ever been too and despite isolated incidents, many Black travelers have very positive experiences in Mexico.
Now that we’ve addressed some safety concerns, let’s talk about some non-beach destinations that solo travelers might enjoy. Mexico City is a bustling metropolis with plenty of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and historic sites. Oaxaca is another excellent choice, with its beautiful colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and delicious cuisine. San Miguel de Allende is a charming town with a thriving arts scene and plenty of boutique shops and cafes to explore, while Queretaro is a lesser-known gem with a beautiful historic center and lovely plazas to relax in.
If you are looking for a beach getaway, there are plenty of less touristy options to consider. Bacalar is a stunning lagoon with crystal clear waters, while Mahahual is a laid-back fishing village with beautiful beaches and great snorkeling. Isla Holbox and Isla Mujeres are two island paradises that offer a more relaxed atmosphere than the bustling Cancun.
When it comes to accommodations, many solo travelers choose to stay in vacation rentals like Airbnb. However, it’s essential to ask about carbon monoxide detection in any property you are considering. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be deadly, and many vacation rentals in Mexico do not have functioning detectors. I strongly recommend traveling with your own Carbon Monoxide Detector. I like this Kidde Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector, Battery Powered, Combination Smoke & CO Alarm with Voice Alert. It is small enough to slip into a carryon suitcase.
I share some other travel safety advice for short term rentals specific to Mexico in my video chat so be sure to watch it all the way through. As for getting to Mexico, flying into the country is generally safer than driving, as the highways, especially the non-toll roads, can be dangerous, especially at night.
In conclusion, Mexico can be a safe and enjoyable destination for solo travelers, including Black women over 50. As with any trip, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and be aware of potential cultural differences. Non-beach destinations like Mexico City, Oaxaca, San Miguel de Allende, and Queretaro offer plenty of cultural attractions and experiences, while lesser-known beach locations like Bacalar, Mahahual, Isla Holbox, and Isla Mujeres provide a more laid-back vibe. When booking accommodations, be sure to ask about carbon monoxide detection, and consider flying into the country instead of driving. With a little bit of planning and caution, Mexico can be a fantastic destination for solo travel.
No matter where you plan to solo travel your travel should include a travel safety plan. Grab the BaldGirlWillTravel: A Guide to Travel Safety and Security for Solo Female Travelers and ensure you follow the safety tips to ensure a safe solo travel experience.
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