It understandable why people are worried about travel to Mexico since the country has received a lot of bad press lately. Travel warnings to areas of Mexico always tends to put people on edge. Still, I have traveled to Mexico twice this year already and will likely go a few more times. Here’s why I feel more than comfortable and why you should consider this destination as well:
#1: Travel warnings don’t affect the main tourist areas.
While travel warnings are important, the warnings about crime from the U.S. Department of State don’t single out the main tourist areas like Los Cabos and Riviera Maya. In the Quintana Roo state where Riviera Maya is located, for example, they recommend you “exercise increased caution” due to an increase in crime over last year. If you stay in the main tourist areas and around your resort, you should feel perfectly safe. Use the same caution you would in any big city with the potential for crime (New York City, Chicago, Los Angeles, etc.) and you’ll be fine.
#2: Mexico is so affordable right now it’s insane.
Basic rooms start at less than $400 per night at this five-star luxury hotel. They aim to shower you with attention and pampering from the moment you walk through their doors. A similar hotel in another tropical destination like Jamaica or Nassau would easily cost twice as much or more. There are plenty of other affordable hotel options in Mexico as well, ranging from cheap digs in Cancun and Playa del Carmen to affordable spots in Los Cabos. And let’s not forget how many hotels in Mexico you can book with hotel points.
#3: It’s easy to get to, and you can even cover flights with airline miles.
My favorite way to get to Mexico is with Southwest Rapid Rewards since you can score two checked bags for free and flights are reasonable in points. But all of the major airlines fly there as well, making it easy to use nearly any airline currency form American AAdvantage to Delta Sky Miles to pay for your trip.
#4: If you’re stressed over crime, just stay on your resort.
Recently, someone I know said she was thinking of cancelling her trip to the Hyatt Ziva in Cancun due to fears over crime. I cautioned her against overreacting and instead offered an alternative. “Just stay on the resort,” I said. If you’re staying in an all-inclusive like the Hyatt Ziva, the Grand Palladium Riviera Maya, or the TRS Yucatan, everything you could possibly want is within reach anyway. You can eat and enjoy yourself without going anywhere.
#5: The people are amazing.
I travel the Caribbean and Mexico many times every year, and I am continually astonished at how welcoming and wonderful the Mexican people are every single time. I always feel bad that the wonderful people of this beautiful country suffer economically due to gang activity they can’t control. If you want to go somewhere where people are happy you’re there, Mexico is your place.
#6: There’s so much to see and do.
I love beautiful ocean water and both sides of Mexico have gorgeous beaches. Obviously, the beaches on Riviera Maya are superb, full of wildlife, and ideal for snorkeling. On the Pacific side of the country, you also have whales and sea lions, and even whale sharks!
Mexico also has cenotes to swim in, zip-lining, and caves. They even have ancient Mayan ruins that date back to the 13th century. The point is, there is so much to do in Mexico no matter your tastes. If you want a beach vacation with plenty of other things to do nearby, Mexico’s coastal resort towns are a good choice.
