Mexico is diverse and exotic, and one of the most desirable tourist destinations in the world. And while it undoubtedly has its charms, it’s also incredibly important that you’re aware of its dangers. Being mindful of the dangers of where you’re going it’s an important part of staying safe.
Remember, Mexico isn’t the same as home. They don’t have the same police presence as you have back where you live. Staying safe goes beyond just avoiding crime, too.
To ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip, here are some of the most important things you should avoid when traveling to Mexico.
Stay Under the Radar
Rather than flashing expensive items like electronics or expensive jewelry, you should try and keep yourself under the radar. In other words, it’s wise to exercise caution, especially in crowded areas.
Keep cash and valuables at home in a safe, and avoid drawing attention to yourself if possible. You could find yourself a victim of a robbery, which can be devastating if you’re on vacation and just want to have a good time.
Don’t Drink the Water
You’ve probably heard people talk about how you shouldn’t drink the water in Mexico, and the stories are true! Mexico’s tap water is definitely not safe to drink, and consuming it can lead to serious health complications beyond just diarrhea.
You can even get an amoeba which could cause lifelong problems with your digestion. Stick to bottled water, for drinking water and also brushing your teeth, and any ice in your drinks should be made from purified water.
Always be cautious with street food while you’re at it, since they may have washed ingredients or cutlery with contaminated water. Take a look at places that seem to have a large crowd of locals, and generally, this is a good sign that it’s reputable and you won’t get sick.
Pay Attention to Laws
Mexico has its own unique laws that are different from the United States. It’s important that you respect these laws if you hope to avoid offending locals or worse, getting in trouble with the law.
Even a small amount of marijuana, for example, is still illegal in Mexico and can lead to jail time. It’s also important to note that no matter how much you may have had to drink on your Mexican vacation, public drunkenness is considered unruly behavior. It is extremely frowned upon and can result in fines or in worst-case scenarios, arrest.
Get to know local customs and laws before you arrive so that you’ll shine a positive light on other tourists, and ultimately pave the way for others to have a positive travel experience after you.
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