Myth #1: You should not leave your resort

Verdict: False

All-inclusive resorts are designed to be safe, convenient, and comfortable—but planned nightly shows often do not authentically represent the culture. You may end up missing out on the full experience of Mexico.

Why this myth exists:

Travelers are often told resorts are the “only safe place,” especially by media narratives or overly cautious advice.

The reality:

• Tourist areas and beaches are generally well-developed and actively monitored for safety.
• Excursions, tours, and day trips operate safely every day. Independent travelers travel though Mexico safely every day.
• Local businesses rely on tourism and prioritize visitor safety.

If you stay inside your resort the entire time, you’ll miss out on authentic food, culture, and experiences!

What to do instead:

• Book guided tours or private drivers if you’re unsure about renting a car or taking a taxi. If you are adventurous don’t miss the opportunity to rent a scooter, ATV, or e-bike to get around!
• Visit popular areas first (downtown, beaches, ruins) until you get more comfortable with your surroundings. Locals are very friendly and want to welcome you to their businesses.
• Explore during the day and ease into nighttime outings. Sometimes the magic happens at night when the restaurants fill with patrons, music plays, and the streets light up!

Myth #2: It’s Dangerous to Wear Jewelry in Mexico

Verdict: False

You don’t need to leave your wedding ring or everyday accessories at home.

Why this myth exists:
General travel advice about avoiding flashy items gets exaggerated when applied to Mexico.

The reality:

• Locals and travelers from all around the world wear jewelry regularly.
• In major cities like Mexico City, wearing watches, necklaces, and gold or designer items is completely normal.
• There is no widespread issue of tourists being robbed or targeted for jewelry.

What’s actually smart:

• Avoid packing extremely expensive or irreplaceable items in checked baggage.
• Keep valuables secure when not in use.
• Use common sense, just as you would anywhere else.

quick Restaurant tip

Most restaurants will provide you with a total in both MXN and USD. The USD price is typically around $5 more than the price in pesos. This is because the staff or owner will need to go exchange the USD or CAD into pesos which takes time and costs pesos for the exchange.

Myth #4: Mexico Is Too Dangerous Because of Cartels

Verdict: Misleading

This is one of the biggest drivers of fear—and one of the most misunderstood.

Why this myth exists:
News coverage often focuses on cartel-related violence without explaining context or geography.

What happened?

Recent coverage surrounding the capture of El Mencho showed images of vehicles being set on fire, which understandably raised concern and temporarily disrupted travel in some areas. However, it’s important to understand the context. These incidents were localized, short-lived, and—most importantly—did not involve harm to civilians or tourists. In many ways, the response was more comparable to a disruptive protest than “widespread violence” as framed by certain media outlets. It did not impact the areas where travelers typically visit and no civilians were harmed. All businesses outside of the Puerto Vallarta area were back to normal the following day where Puerto Vallarta experienced several days of travel disruptions.

The reality:

• Mexico is a large country, and most cartel activity is not directed at tourists
• Tourist destinations are economically dependent on visitors and prioritize safety
• Many incidents occur in areas far from where travelers typically go

While it’s important to stay informed, it’s equally important to avoid generalizing an entire country based on isolated events.

What About Police and Military Presence in Mexico?

You may have seen headlines or social media posts suggesting there are “more machine guns than margaritas” on the beaches of Cancún. While that makes for a dramatic headline, it lacks important context.

The reality:
The presence of National Guard and police in tourist areas is intentional and proactive—and it’s there for your safety.

• These officers are assigned specifically to protect high-traffic tourist zones.
• They patrol beaches, hotel zones, and popular areas to deter crime.
• Their presence helps ensure a safe environment for families, travelers, and locals alike.

For many visitors, this actually creates a greater sense of security.

Unlike how law enforcement may sometimes be perceived in places like the United States, security forces in Mexico’s tourist areas are generally visible, calm, and focused on maintaining a safe and welcoming environment. They are not there to intimidate visitors—they are there to protect them.

Bottom line:
Seeing National Guard members or police in tourist areas is not a sign that something is wrong—it’s a sign that safety is being taken seriously. They are keeping you safe so you can enjoy that margarita!

The Reality of Traveling in Mexico

Mexico is not a dangerous, lawless, free-for-all—it’s a country full of vibrant culture, welcoming communities, and world-class destinations. Beyond the resorts and beaches there are communities of locals and foreigners from around the world like myself that live, operate businesses, raise families, and are prosperous and safe in Mexico.

Yes, there are risks—just like anywhere else in the world. But with awareness and basic precautions, those risks are manageable.