Travel Tip: Stay Safe While Traveling in Mexico Suzanne Barbezat - About.com
go to original August 23, 2012

Most people who travel to Mexico have a wonderful time and don't encounter any problems. However, as in other tourist destinations throughout the world, crime is a fact of life, and as a tourist you may be targeted for theft. In order to increase your chances of having a safe and pleasant vacation, follow these tips for Mexico travel safety.

Before you leave:

• Research your destination. The US State Department's Web site has information about Mexico as well as current warnings and public announcements regarding safety issues for travelers. World Travel Watch also offers frequently updated reports.

• As you're packing, think twice about taking valuables with you. If they're not essential, they're probably better off left at home. This will also make for lighter bags, allowing you greater ease of movement which can deter potential thieves.

• Scan your passport and travel documents and e-mail them to yourself. That way, if your documents are lost or stolen you can easily access copies from your e-mail.

• Take your bank or credit card's international telephone number with you (the 1-800 numbers used in the United States don't work in Mexico).

• Leave a copy of your itinerary with someone at home, but don't share details of your travel plans with others you meet while traveling.

• Buy a money belt (not a fanny pack) to carry your money and passport underneath your clothing. Compare Prices

• Credit or debit cards are the most convenient way to access your money while traveling, but losing your card (or having it swallowed by a cash machine) can be a great inconvenience, so have a back-up plan. Take some travelers cheques (or a small amount of cash) just in case.

While you're there:

• Blend in as much as possible. Walking around with a camera around your neck and a guidebook in your hand advertises your tourist status and may make you a mark for thieves. Try to be discreet.

• Choose ATMs in malls or stores if possible. Avoid using ATMs at night or in deserted places. When you withdraw money from an ATM put it away immediately.

• Carry only the cash you need for the moment in your pocket or purse. Carry your passport, credit card and extra money inside your clothes in a money-belt, or leave them in your hotel's safe. When you need to get something out of your money belt do it in a private place.

• Exercise particular caution when in crowds, markets or on public transportation. Pickpockets can be very crafty and sometimes work in pairs - one person will distract you while another takes your wallet.

• Ask your hotel manager or another knowledgeable person if there are some areas of the city you should avoid.

Taxis

In Mexico City you should avoid hailing cabs in the street. Ask your hotel to call a cab for you. They will take note of the number of the taxi and the driver's name. At the airport and bus stations in Mexico City and other major cities there are official taxis (Taxis Autorizados) that you should take.

Upon arrival at the Mexico City Airport, and at other airports and major bus stations, there is a system of authorized taxis set up to help ensure the safety of travelers. Although they may cost a bit more than a cab you can hail on the street, it's a good idea to always take authorized taxis when available (the price is still very reasonable).

How to take an authorized taxi

First locate the authorized taxi booth or stand. These are usually marked by the sign "Taxis Autorisados" or in airports "Transporte Terrestre". There may be taxi drivers standing around trying to solicit your business. You should avoid these and head to the stand to purchase your ticket.

At the taxi booth you will see a map of the city marked off in zones and the cost for transportation depending on which zone is your destination. Tell the ticket agent your destination and pay the fare. This fare is for up to four people with up to two bags per person. If there are more than four people in your party or your luggage will not fit in a sedan then you will have to pay more for transportation in a larger vehicle.

After purchasing your taxi ticket proceed to the taxi area - you should see signs with arrows pointing you in the right direction. There you will give the ticket to your driver who will help you load your luggage into the car. Tell the driver your destination - and off you go. Generally a tip is given to the driver who helps you with your luggage, otherwise no tip is necessary.

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