10 Safety Tips for Travelers to Puerto Vallarta
Wed. Mar/6th/2018.
Mexico has often been known as one of the most dangerous countries in the world for American travelers; there are several websites and news media stations that have said Mexico is dangerous and warn against traveling here. Yet, AARP just ranked Puerto Vallarta as the best place in the world to retire.
So, which is it?
And why are there so many conflicting stories about this country that shares our borders?
There is a lot of controversy about travel to Mexico, but from personal experience as a solo female traveler, I have found Mexico, specifically Puerto Vallarta, nothing short of a welcoming, warming and true paradise.
But like any country in the world, there are certain steps you can take to ensuring the safety of yourself, your family and your belongings.
Here are 10 safety tips to help you when traveling to Mexico:
1.) Learn to Adapt
One of the biggest road blocks I see for most travelers is the fear of going into the unknown. It can be scary to fly to a foreign country, and intimidating to be in unfamiliar territory.
If you run into situations where there are no English directories, you can use gestures and references to help communicate what you need.
Going with the flow is the best way to get adjusted to your new destination. Appearing confident and easy going – as if you fit right in – will come across as strong and independent rather than appearing fearful and uncertain.
To be blunt - fake it til you make it.
Predators are known for preying on the weak; by appearing confident in your shoes and walking in like you own the place, you probably won't even rank on the list as a potential victim.
You'll seem too cool, too content, and too confident to be easy prey.
And before you know it, your appearance of confidence will evolve into the reality.
2.) Stay off your phone
Who do you think would be easier to take advantage of: the girl walking down the street with her nose shoved into her phone, unaware of her surroundings; or the girl who walks around with her chin up, aware and acknowledging everyone around her?
This should be a no-brainer, but in today's world it can be too tempting to constantly be checking your social media comments or Snap-chatting, and not paying attention to what is going on around you.
Keep your eyes up and out of your phone; you can check your Facebook later, I promise it's not going anywhere.
3.) Acknowledge Those Around You
I read a statistic once that said acknowledging the predator can actually knock them off guard.
By making eye contact, smiling or actually saying hello to the passersby, you can actually deter them from preying on you completely. They are seeking out the weak and unaware, not the friendly, fierce and outgoing.
So next time you're in a dark alley (please, avoid this situation at all costs) and you walk past someone that seems to be lurking, don't be afraid to acknowledge their presence with eye contact and a nod.
You don't need to be overly friendly; there is a fine line here. But do make sure they know you see them, and they'll be less likely to choose you as their next victim.
4.) Don't Make Your Electronics Obvious
To thieves, someone with a fancy iPhone, an expensive camera and a sleek looking laptop is the ideal candidate to rob. Keep your possessions contained until you know you are in a safe place to pull them out and put them on display.
Use your phone OR your camera, but don't pull out both.
Never leave your things unattended and consider travelers insurance. I used World Nomads and felt confident about traveling with their protection.
Theft is a reality, and it's better to be prepared than left with nothing.
5.) Daylight is On Your Side
Traveling in the daytime is much less risky for any type of traveler.
There are more people out, more people to notice you, and more people to help you.
Make eye contact but not overly aggressively, and be aware of your body language. In most Latin American cultures, extended eye contact with the opposite sex can be viewed as sexual interest, so women should be especially sure to keep expressions friendly and short to not attract the wrong kind of attention.
Travel during the day whenever possible, predators are much more notorious for coming out at night.
6.) Stay On The Beaten Path
Unless you are planning on taking a trip to a deserted island, the chance of being stranded alone is slim. Sometimes it's best to use your judgement and not appear vulnerable.
The people around you are your best tool, so stay surrounded, communicate your itinerary with your hotel and stay in tourist areas – keeping people close could save your life!
7.) Don't Get Too Drunk
This can be a bit challenging while you are on vacation, but remember – alcohol inhibits your better judgement.
You need your instincts when traveling and alcohol is only going to slow them down.
There's nothing wrong with having a few drinks, but always keep your head on your shoulders.
There's no easier prey than an overly intoxicated gal in an unfamiliar area.
8.) Check In Whenever You Can
Social media is a great tool that can be used for travelers.
Checking in often helps your friends and family keep track of your location, and in a worst case scenario can help the police track you easier.
Let your hotel know if you are going to be gone for a day trip or even out of your room for a night.
In the event you don't return – they will be the first to know you're missing and can report it.
9.) Learn the Essentials of the Language
You should research any destinations you choose to go to, and it's best if you can communicate the basics: Hello, Thank you, Toilet and Help are some of the few important ones to learn when visiting Mexico.
If you're still unsure if you want to travel to a country where you don't speak the language, check out this post!.
10.) Be Fearless!
This list was created to help you stay safe while you're traveling to Mexico. But really, this country is not a scary place, people are genuinely friendly and you will adapt to your new destination!
Don't be afraid of what could happen, because you're only giving yourself unnecessary stress.
Be prepared, be confident, and be fearless!
You will be glad you did, and each experience you have along your journey will only make you stronger!
Thanks for reading!
Written by: Dez of www.mydeztination.com
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