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Officials in the coastal destination of Playa del Carmen are warning travelers about the growing number of passport thefts being reported in the popular hotspot.
Despite being one of the safest destinations in the Riviera Maya, criminals are always on the hunt for unsuspecting travelers and, increasingly, passports and other valuable identity documents.
With more travelers set to flock to the Mexican Caribbean this fall and winter, here’s the latest on the safety situation in Playa del Carmen and what travelers can do to protect themselves.
Travelers Told To Take Precautions As Passport Thefts On The Rise
Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular destinations in the Riviera Maya and the entire Mexican Caribbean, with nearly 90% of all hotel and resort rooms selling out in the coastal destination this summer.
Its skyrocketing popularity makes it a lucrative target for criminals, who seek to profit at the expense of foreign visitors, especially those hailing from the United States and other wealthy countries.
In recent months, passport theft has emerged as one of the most common forms of crime affecting travelers in the coastal hotspot. The number of thefts has risen considerably compared to previous years, and identity theft now makes up a growing proportion of all crimes.
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According to local law enforcement sources, passport theft most commonly occurs when visitors leave their bags unattended in a rental vehicle and in some cases, in plain sight of criminals.
Although far from being the worst crime to confront, having one’s passport stolen is an unpleasant experience and a logistical nightmare. Without valid proof of identity, travel can become nearly impossible, which is why officials are warning travelers to keep a close eye on their belongings.
New statistics reveal that, on average, two passports are stolen every day in Playa del Carmen, although the real number could be even higher.
Fortunately, local and state authorities have responded to the growing number of passport thefts by deploying more resources through the Tourist Protection Center (CAPTA), which assists travelers who fall victim to crime by contacting consulates or embassies.
CAPTA also helps travelers with paperwork, helping to save time and money. They can also notify consulates to cancel passports so that they cannot be used for identity theft or other crimes.
@lifeofjazz__ Replying to @Le Blanc Couture Is Mexico Safe? 🇲🇽 . I loved mexico and personally found it very safe! I visited Tulum & Playa del Carmen! #tulum #mexicosafety #mexico #ismexicosafe ♬ original sound – Jazz | Travel Content ✈️
The protocol for stolen passports varies from one country to the next, but generally speaking, embassies can issue emergency passports, which can be used to travel back home. However, they can cost several hundred dollars and take a few days to issue, potentially causing travel delays and extra costs.
Travelers can reach out to Playa del Carmen’s Tourist Protection Center online or via phone.
Follow These Tips To Stay Safe On Your Next Playa del Carmen Trip
One of the most important things travelers can do to protect themselves against passport theft in Playa del Carmen is to keep their identification documents securely stored in their hotel safe.
Travelers are urged to carry a photocopy of their passport on them when exploring Playa del Carmen and beyond. The same goes for things like credit cards and personal IDs, which are generally not needed, with a few notable exceptions.
@alfainmobiliariaazaola 😎Seems like safety is top of mind here in Playa del Carmen! Let’s ask some tourist see what they say about it. 🥸I just randomly ran into some tourists, and I asked them 🤔 if they feel unsafe on the streets? Or How come they here in Playa Del Carmen? and this is what they have to say to you😜 What do you think of Playa del Carmen? Let me know in the comments 👇 #strangerdangers #playadelcarmen #safetyfirst #socialdistancing #walkingdownthestreet #noproblem #unsafesituations #alejandroazaola ♬ sonido original – Azaola
In order to prevent petty crime, carry only the necessary amount of cash (U.S. dollars or local currency), and avoid flaunting valuable items like cameras, watches, or jewelry. Even touristy locations, such as Playa del Carmen’s Quinta Avenida or its popular beaches, are an ideal target for pickpockets, so maintain a high degree of situational awareness at all times.
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