Mexico travel guide for a safe and splendid experience
Every year, several travelers from around the world flock to Mexico to witness its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and delicious local food. While immersing yourself in this captivating country, it's crucial to prioritize safety and focus on ways to have a hassle-free travel experience. Here's what you should do to make your #MexicoDiaries all the more memorable and fun.
Take only Uber or Cabify for local commute
Innumerable unregistered taxi drivers in Mexico often dupe people and commit crimes too. Cases of "express kidnapping" in which criminals disguised as taxi drivers rob travelers have seen an exponential increase in the country over the last few years. Hence, it's best to book cabs with apps including Uber or Cabify. This will ensure you have a safer experience.
Use only ATMs placed inside authorized banks
The streets in Mexico have many unauthorized and fake cash machines that you should be wary of. These ATMs are not linked to any bank and are rather designed to swallow your card, putting your financial information at risk. Safeguard yourself from this by only using cash machines installed inside banks. Additionally, use your card as little as possible and instead do cash transactions.
Double-check your food bills in restaurants
Most restaurants in Mexico try to swindle tourists by charging them extra money in various ways. They may add items to your bill that you haven't ordered, levy extra/higher taxes, or offer you a different menu with higher prices to extort some additional cash from you. Avoid being scammed by double-checking your bill and not eating at places that are exaggerated by touts.
Don't waste your time on hot deals
Timeshare scams are very common in Mexico, especially at popular tourist spots and railways/airports. You will find enthusiastic sales representatives offering you hot deals like affordable accommodation, free transfers, free meals, discounts on tourist passes, etc. At first, they may lure you but later they would ask for deposits and won't refund. Avoid interacting with them and move on.
Locals are warm, but sometimes dangerously over-friendly
When visiting a nightclub, you might encounter overly friendly locals attempting to make your acquaintance. They engage in conversation, dance with you, and continuously order food and drinks. The catch? You're left with the bill. This common scam is reported not only in Mexico but also in many other countries, often targeting solo travelers or those unfamiliar with the local language.
