WHEN TRAVELING TO MEXICO KEEP IN MIND…

 

• Make sure your friends and family know where you’re staying! It’s always a good idea to leave a copy of your itinerary with someone at home, but don't share that information with people you may meet. Register your travel with the State Department through a free service at https://travelregistration.state.gov.  This makes sure that you can be contacted in case of an emergency. 

 

• As you're packing, think twice about taking valuables with you. If you don’t need them, don’t take them. This will also make for lighter bags, and lets you breeze through crowded areas quicker! This can deter potential thieves. Buy a money belt (not a fanny pack) to carry your money and passport underneath your clothing.

 

• Don’t leave your luggage unattended in public areas, and never accept packages from strangers.

 

• Ask your hotel manager or knowledgeable onsite staff if there are certain areas you should avoid.

 

• Driving in Mexico is very different then driving in the USA, there are different road rules and local drivers have different habits, so always be alert. Car accidents are one of the top causes of injury and death among Americans in Mexico, so be a safe driver and avoid reckless behavior.

 

• While in Mexico, you’re subject to Mexico’s laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and you may not have the protections available to individuals under U.S. law.  The trial process in Mexico is different from the trial process in the United States, and procedures may vary from state to state.  Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses.  Persons violating Mexican laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned.  Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs in Mexico are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs of Mexico. 

 

• Entering Mexico with a firearm, some kinds of knives or even a single round of ammunition is illegal, even if the weapon or ammunition is taken into Mexico unintentionally.  The Mexican government strictly enforces its laws restricting the entry of firearms and ammunition along all land borders and at airports and seaports. 

 

• Avoid illicit drugs or excessive use of alcohol and reckless behavior.   Penalties for drug offenses are strict, and convicted offenders can expect large fines and jail sentences up to 25 years.

 

• Credit or debit cards are the most convenient way to access your money while traveling, but losing your card (or having it swallowed by a cash machine) can be a great inconvenience, so have a back-up plan. Take some travelers checks (or a small amount of cash) just in case. Choose ATMs in malls or stores if possible. Avoid using ATMs at night or in deserted places. When you withdraw money from an ATM put it away immediately. Carry only the cash you need for the moment in your pocket or purse. Carry a copy of your passport, credit card and extra money inside your clothes in a money-belt, or leave them in your hotel's safe. When you need to get something out of your money belt do it in a private place.

 

• Be aware of your surroundings when you’re in crowds, markets or on public transportation. Pickpockets can be very crafty and sometimes work in pairs - one person will distract you while another takes your wallet.

 

In Mexico we care about you and we want you to enjoy our country as much as we do!

Have a Safe and Enjoyable Trip!