Getting Around Safety Concerns for Tourists in Mexico.
Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Mexico 2023. (PHOTO: google)
Mexico is a diverse place with cool spots like Cancun, but there’s a not-so-great side too. Drug gangs and crime stuff make it less safe, with lots of homicides (43,900 in 2021). A poll says not many Mexicans feel safe at night (only 48%). Recently, bad things happened to American tourists in March 2023, making it more worrying. If you’re thinking about living in Mexico, be careful in some cities. It’s better to be safe by adding security to your home, like cameras.
READ ALSO: Top 10 Most Dangerous Places In New York City
10 Dangerous Places in Mexico
Victoria
In Victoria, a city of around 380,000 people known for making things like car parts, there’s a hidden problem. The city is also a route for drug gangs, leading to a high murder rate of 86 per 100,000. Street gangs cause issues too, doing robberies and hurting regular people.
Juarez
Juarez, with 1.5 million people by the Rio Grande, has a cool culture but also crime. It has a high murder rate of 103 per 100,000. Visitors should stick together and avoid dark or isolated places with concerns about taxis and pickpockets.
Cancun
Cancun, a famous holiday spot by the Caribbean Sea, has some hidden dangers now. Even with a lower murder rate of 64 per 100,000, crimes related to drug gangs are up. The government put rules on Airbnb and nightclubs to help tourists stay safe. It’s advised to stay in resort areas.
Irapuato
Irapuato, known for strawberries and crops, had 81 homicides per 100,000 last year. Drug gangs cause trouble, leading to scary shootings at bars. The U.S. government says it’s not safe, warning about assaults, robberies, and kidnappings.
Coatzacoalcos
Coatzacoalcos, a historic port in the Gulf of Mexico, has an interesting past but problems now. Though the murder rate is not so high, there are lots of other crimes like assaults, thefts, and drug dealing.
Culiacan
Culiacan has changed a lot in the past three years. From low crime, it’s now at 84 incidents per 100,000. After El Chapo’s son got arrested, the city became a war zone for drug cartels. It’s tense and not as safe for both residents and tourists.
Uruapan
Uruapan, with a history dating back to 1533 and around 356,700 people, faces rising crime. Despite its beauty, the crime rate is 87 per 100,000. There’s lots of worry among locals, with only 22% feeling safe during the day.
Acapulco
Acapulco, once a fancy vacation spot, now has the second-highest murder rate in Mexico, at 111 per 100,000. It’s because of poppy fields and 20 cartels fighting for control. The U.S. says its officials shouldn’t go there due to the crime.
San Diego
Tijuana, near San Diego, is famous for both good and bad reasons. It’s a dangerous city, with 138 murders per 100,000 in 2022. Cartels, especially in the fentanyl trade, create lots of violence. Tourists are told to stay low-key and be careful.
Obregon
Finally, in Obregon, known for mountains and good food, there’s a safety concern. The general crime rate is 93 per 100,000, with muggings, carjackings, and drug trade issues. Even though it’s pretty, safety concerns make life tricky in Obregon.
Traveling to Mexico: Safety Tips
When traveling in Mexico, prioritize safety by staying informed about your destination, choosing reputable accommodations, and using secure transportation. Be cautious with your belongings, limit nighttime activities in unfamiliar areas, and watch your alcohol intake. Learn basic phrases in Spanish, know local emergency contacts, and, if possible, travel with a group for added security. Respect the local culture, dress modestly, and enjoy your trip with a focus on staying safe.
