Is it Safe in Cancun?

By admin • April 21, 2009

We get many questions about whether or not Cancun is a safe travel destination, based on recent reports about tourists having trouble in Mexico.

Overall, from our research and the many, many responses from both readers and Cancun travel writers, agents in the industry, etc., we understand Cancun is very safe and should not pose any safety hazards to tourists with common sense.

While we believe that Mexican tourist destinations – especially those with mostly all-inclusive, resort-style accomodations – are safe, following are some tips to ensure you have a happy and safe holiday in Cancun.

Book with a reputable hotel company, preferably a chain with hotels in many worldwide destinations. This will ensure you are dealing with an international rather than a local management team, and can have any unforeseen issues handled – hopefully – in a professional manner.
Purchase your airport transfers ahead of time, or book with a travel company which includes hotel transfers. There are many taxis and ‘other’ rides available at the airport in Cancun, however you are at risk of (at best) being bamboozled into a time-share sales pitch-while-driving, and (at worst) being at the mercy of an unscrupulous driver in a foreign country. Without hotel-sanctioned transport, you have no recourse should something happen to you.
Keep your passport and other valuables with you at all times. If youu have an in-room safe, use it (with one small caveat: certain hotels have guests who reported staff theft, even from in-room safes: try TripAdvisor to see if this an issue at your hotel of choice – even if the hotl doesn’t acknowledge it - and if so you may be better off to carry your important documents with you) – lock away your passport and any other valuable paperwork, money, jewels, etc., and only open it when you need them or when you’re ready to return home.
When planning and booking excursions, ensure the provider is reputable and ideally recommended by your hotel or travel agent. Look for a professional set-up and many happy previous customers, if possible, and use common sense at all times. Do not leave the group, watch your belongings, and follow any safety guidelines given.
Do not partake in any activities you would not do in any large urban area: don’t go out alone late at night in unfamiliar neighbourhoods, don’t wander around intoxicated with your ID and passport in your pocket, etc..