Tips/Advice for traveling alone as a woman in Mexico?

Question

I'm planning a trip to Puerto Morelos, Mexico a small fishing town south of Cancun and was wondering about advice that could be offered or thoughts, etc.

Answer 1

Be smart, but there's no need to get overly concerned by the scare stories.

I'm a woman who has traveled alone in Mexico quite a bit. It's not that big a deal, as long as you're smart.

It certainly helps if you speak the language. And just be smart - don't do things to draw a lot of attention to yourself. For example, don't wear flashy jewelry, don't carry a lot of cash or valuables with you when you go out, dress simply and modestly, be aware of where you are, always know where you are going (get directions beforehand), if you're going to be drinking - be careful not to get intoxicated.

How do you plan to get around Puerto Morelos? If you're walking, be sure to stick to areas you're comfortable with (you may ask the hotel about this). If you're taking a taxi, be sure to use only taxi services OK'd by the hotel (don't hail cabs off the street). If you're taking a public bus, be sure you understand which bus you need to take, and where you need to get off (you say "Baja" in order to request a stop).

Many women travel alone in Mexico, especially in the tourist regions. Mexico is a very friendly country and people who work in the tourism industry are usually very happy to assist travelers and share advice. In fact, I've always found it quite easy to travel alone as a woman. For the past couple of years I've traveled into Mexico with just my infant son and, for example, while traveling through airports I love that there are men who for a small tip are able to help me with my luggage. (Man, I wish we had that in the States!)

You might even find other women who are traveling alone when you get there, and then perhaps you could arrange to site-see together. Or, maybe you're just looking to be by yourself. Either way, you should be fine, as long as you're a smart traveler.

Relax and have fun.

Answer 2

Don't.  Do you have any friends or family in the area?  If not, I would think twice.  For your own safety.

Answer 3

You can hire some bodyguards for your safety.