Safety of travelers in Cancun Mexico
Over the last year, I have helped prospective travelers by posting on a variety of travel blogs. Some of the most common and frequently asked questions are “Are there drug wars in Cancun?” or “Is Cancun safe?” There were 23,000 violent deaths in Mexico during 2010 related to drug violence. Fortunately, only three of those drug-related deaths occurred in the Cancun/Yucatan area.
There is a growing misconception that if you travel to Mexico, you are at tremendous risk of being mugged, robbed, kidnapped or shot, and nothing could be further from the truth. The US media bears most of the blame, sensationalizing the slightest mishap in an effort to boost their ratings at everyone’s expense. Add to this our own State department issuing warnings that make it seem like the life expectancy of a tourist in Cancun is about the same as that of the point man on patrol in Vietnam in 1968, while France and the UK issue mild warnings. and common sense.
Cancun, Mexico, sees almost 5 million tourists a year pass through its small town. The economy here revolves around the area commonly known as the Hotel Zone, further south along the Riviera Maya and, of course, Playa del Carmel with the island of Cozumel serving as the Yucatan’s main cruise port. The night life consists of numerous bars and a growing number of casinos in Cancun for more entertainment. Vacationers who venture to the Hotel Zone can be sure that their safety is a major concern for the Federal and local Police who regularly patrol the area.
Of course, everyone should use common sense when in a foreign and unfamiliar city. Use the same means that you would use in any new or foreign city. At night it is advisable to travel in a group and take a taxi if your location takes you outside the usual tourist areas. If you are going to a local attraction in the city after dark, ask your hotel concierge if the area is safe. Most of the bars and casinos in the area have 24 hour outside security for your protection and theirs. I’m not saying Cancun is crime-free, but compared to downtown Detroit, Chicago, Los Angeles, or Atlanta, you’re safer here and less likely to become a victim of crime.
After living in the city for seven months, I have gotten used to walking late at night in my neighborhood (La Luna and Nichupté) without worries. Many of the local neighborhoods in the city post volunteer night watchmen on their street corners. These rotating shifts of volunteers sit up all night and watch for unfamiliar faces and also make sure area residents get to their doors safely. Perhaps the United States should learn a few lessons from our friends south of the border.
So, in response to your passionate question; No, Dorothy, you’re not in Kansas anymore, but come to Cancun anyway and the Mexican Munchkins will make your trip worth every penny…and bring your cute little dog with you. We’ll keep a light on for you.
