Introduction
Cancun is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and exciting nightlife. But when it comes to safety, there are some concerns that travelers should be aware of before visiting. In this article, we’ll explore the safety of traveling to Cancun and provide tips on how to stay safe while visiting.
Interview with a Local Travel Safety Expert
To get an insider’s perspective on the safety situation in Cancun, we spoke with travel safety expert and Cancun resident Alejandro Rodriguez. Rodriguez has been living in Cancun for over 10 years, and has extensive knowledge of the area and its safety issues.
According to Rodriguez, the biggest concern for travelers visiting Cancun is petty theft. “Pickpocketing and bag snatching are common in tourist areas,” he says. “It’s important for travelers to be aware of their surroundings and keep their valuables secure.” Rodriguez recommends using a money belt or wearing a fanny pack to keep items like wallets, passports, and phones out of sight.
Rodriguez also advises travelers to avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. “When you’re out after dark, stick to well-lit areas and avoid secluded streets,” he says. “And if you’re going to be out late, make sure to take a taxi instead of walking.”
Examining Crime Rates in Cancun
To get a better understanding of the safety situation in Cancun, it’s helpful to compare its crime rates to other popular tourist destinations. According to data from the Mexican government, the crime rate in Cancun is lower than in cities like Los Angeles and New York City. However, the crime rate in Cancun is higher than in cities like Tokyo and London.
When compared to the United States, the crime rate in Cancun is significantly higher. According to the U.S. Department of State, the overall crime rate in Mexico is more than four times higher than in the United States. This includes both violent and non-violent crimes.
Security Measures in Place in Cancun
Despite the higher-than-average crime rate in Cancun, there are several security measures in place to help ensure the safety of visitors. Many hotels and resorts have 24-hour security guards and surveillance cameras, and many attractions also have security personnel on site.
In addition, there is a strong presence of local law enforcement in Cancun. The city has a dedicated police force that patrols the streets 24 hours a day, and there is also a specialized tourist police force that is trained to assist visitors in case of an emergency.
Precautions that Travelers Should Take
While the security measures in place in Cancun can help to reduce the risk of crime, travelers should still take certain precautions to stay safe during their visit. Rodriguez recommends avoiding certain areas of the city, such as isolated beaches and deserted streets. He also suggests avoiding carrying large amounts of cash and leaving valuables unattended in public places.
Rodriguez also advises travelers to pay attention to their surroundings, especially at night. “If you’re out late and feel uncomfortable in any way, trust your instincts and find a safe place to go,” he says. “It’s always better to err on the side of caution.”
Feature Stories from Recent Travelers
To get a firsthand account of the safety of Cancun, we spoke with two recent travelers who visited the city. Both travelers reported feeling safe during their trips, and they took certain precautions to ensure their safety.
Diana, who visited Cancun in June 2019, said she felt safe during her trip. “I made sure to only carry enough cash for my daily needs, and I kept my passport and other valuables in the hotel safe,” she said. “I also avoided walking alone at night and took taxis instead.”
John, who visited Cancun in August 2019, also reported feeling safe during his trip. “I was careful not to leave my belongings unattended, and I stayed away from isolated areas,” he said. “Overall, I felt safe and had a great time.”
Conclusion
Cancun is a popular tourist destination that offers beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and exciting nightlife. While the crime rate in Cancun is higher than in the U.S., there are several security measures in place to help ensure the safety of visitors. To stay safe, travelers should take certain precautions such as avoiding certain areas, keeping valuables secure, and paying attention to their surroundings.
Based on our interviews with local experts and recent travelers, Cancun can be a safe and enjoyable destination for visitors who take the necessary precautions. Ultimately, it’s up to each traveler to make the right decisions to ensure their safety while in Cancun.
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