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Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination for sun-seeking travelers is in the balance following recent U.S. travel warnings.
Despite the alarming situation, the region remains the safest in Mexico for travelers as millions of visitors are expected to flock there over spring.
By following some essential safety tips, travelers can continue to enjoy everything the Mexican Caribbean has to offer, from ancient Mayan landmarks to countless white-sand beaches.
Here are 5 important safety tips to keep in mind on your next Cancun getaway:
Choose Your Accommodation Wisely
When it comes to safety, one of the most important things travelers can do is book accommodation in a well-known resort area.
Cancun’s resort zone is not only packed with high-end resorts but it’s also protected thanks to the presence of several law enforcement agencies.
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Travelers booking online rentals, including Airbnbs, are encouraged to research the area before booking.
Opt for central locations and avoid remote neighborhoods where there are fewer police.
Additionally, book an online rental that includes a surveillance system as well as other safety features.
Enjoy Cancun’s Bustling Nightlife Safely
If you’re headed to Cancun over Spring Break, it’s likely partying and enjoying the city’s vibrant nightlife will be high on your bucket list.
While there’s no denying Cancun’s world-famous party vibes, travelers should party responsibly, avoiding excess alcohol use and saying no to illegal drugs.
The U.S. Department of State’s most recent travel warning specifically mentions the unrestricted sale of alcohol as well as rising rates of alcohol spiking as some of the main risk factors to watch out for. Choose well-known party venues like Coco Bongo or The City Nightclub Cancun.
Keep This In Mind When Enjoying Cancun’s Beaches
Millions of travelers flock to Cancun for two things: sea and sun, which the seaside destination offers in abundance. Cancun’s unbeatable white-sand beaches are a delight for travelers, but they also come with some important risk factors.
Although rare, drownings occur each year, mostly due to excessive alcohol intake or poor swimming skills. Travelers are advised to opt for Cancun’s popular Blue-Flag beaches, including Marlín and Delfines, where lifeguards watch over swimmers from early morning until the late afternoon.
Weather conditions are another key element to watch out for; luckily, Cancun beaches use a color-coded warning system to inform travelers about swimming safety. Look for a green or yellow flag prior to enjoying the beach, and avoid swimming if a red or black flag is on display.
Watch Out For These Scams
Petty crime, including pickpokets and scams, is the most common form of crime affecting travelers in Cancun. Welcoming millions of well-earning visitors, the city has become a hub for fraudsters, from fake taxi drivers to pushy street vendors.
The best way to avoid being scammed in Cancun is to book as much of your trip beforehand as possible: from accommodation to private airport transfers and excursions, opt for booking online securely. When in town, stick to popular tourist attractions and leave valuable items in your resort, and carry a small but reasonable amount of cash.
Here’s How You Can Report A Crime
Not all crimes can be prevented, and some travelers will inevitably fall victim to scams of theft. Fortunately, local officials have devised several options for visitors that find themselves in that predicament.
Quintana Roo’s Guest Assist platform is the region’s main online tool for reporting crimes and receiving around-the-clock assistance.
The website is easy to use, offering a wealth of information and contact details for different authorities.
Travelers that experience a taxi scam can also reach out to the local taxi union by using their 24-hour hotlines. For general emergencies, 911 is the way to go.
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