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Authorities in Tulum have released a bulletin statement seeking to clarify the current security situation for travelers, expats, and Tulum natives.
In the statement, the authorities mention the huge success of recent operations to remove criminal activity from the area, announcing a large number of arrests and the seizure of weapons and narcotics.
Recent months have been worrying for many planning a trip to the area as there have been several high-profile shootings. Although authorities hope to remind travelers that these incidents are almost exclusively amongst rival criminals.
The Authorities Are Acting
While this statement can seem concerning at first, it acts as an update from the security forces operating in Tulum that shows the efforts in place are having a positive effect.
The police and military are working in unison to make the area completely unattractive for criminals to operate in. Efforts were recently stepped up massively when a 100-day crusade against crime in the area was announced.
It can’t be understated there is a level of commitment to improving safety in Tulum that is to be commended. The local police force has been working tirelessly, with the backup of Marines from the nearby Isla Mujeres unit, to implement fully a range of security initiatives.
As well as the police and Mexico’s highly professional Marines, who regularly train with their U.S. counterparts, there is a large presence of national guard officers in the area conducting higher-level investigations and operations against criminal elements.
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The Rise Of Incidents In Tulum
It wasn’t so long ago that Tulum was a sleepy village with almost no tourism. But that has changed dramatically, with the area now having a trendy reputation that draws visitors from every corner of the globe.
This huge growth happened in a very short period, and unfortunately, it also brought unwanted side effects.
Tulum at night has a heavy party vibe with music festivals and wild night spots contrasting the super-relaxed daytime experience of the beach and Caribbean sun.
Unsurprisingly, where there are young people partying, criminals quickly follow with the hope of providing narcotics to the blossoming party scene. And unfortunately, Tulum hasn’t managed to avoid this.
It should be understood that not all young travelers come to Tulum to engage in this activity. The vast majority are only seeking to have an enjoyable vacation with friends.
But the minority that does take part in narcotics are helping to drive a rise in crime for their fellow travelers, as well as having a negative impact on the fantastically friendly locals who have welcomed the world to enjoy their slice of paradise.
Should Travelers Reconsider Tulum?
Even with the rise in negative incidents and the now-questioned reputation Tulum has for security, the area is still extremely safe for most travelers.
Those who visit Tulum and engage in illegal recreational activities put themselves in dangerous situations that can be easily avoided.
For travelers who come to Tulum with the intention of basking in its near-endless sunshine, fascinating culture, amazing food, and welcoming locals, it remains an amazing part of the world that will leave positive memories that last a lifetime.
How To Stay Safe
The key ways to stay safe while on vacation in Tulum are no different from any other destination, although they may carry more weight:
- Avoid narcotics completely.
- Engage in the responsible consumption of alcohol. The majority of non-narcotics-related incidents involve alcohol.
- Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash.
- Only use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps, and avoid hailing taxis on the street.
- Be aware of common scams and frauds.
- Learn some basic Spanish phrases to communicate with locals so you can ask for help if it’s ever needed.
- Avoid dimly lit and quiet areas at night. Being seen can mean being safe.
- Keep your passport and other important documents in a secure location, such as a hotel safe.
- Purchase travel insurance prior to arrival to protect yourself in case of medical emergencies, flight cancellations, as well as other unforeseeable circumstances.
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