Top 15 Interesting & Safe Places to Visit in Mexico
Traveling to Mexico has received a bad reputation as of late. Elevated levels
of violence caused by the drug trade as well as Mexico's notorious reputation
for kidnapping, are starting to make the region unattractive to many
would-be travelers. There are actually quite a few wonderful, and safe, places
in Mexico worth traveling to. Here you will find information about 15 great
destinations in Mexico, as well as what makes them safe and interesting.
15) Todos Santos
Todos Santos is rated as one of the safest cities
in all of Mexico. Todos Santo translates to "all saints" in English. This mountainous, artististic community is known as a popular surf
destination with unbelievable waterside vistas and an engaging culture. For
those concerned about being able to speak the language, take into consideration
that the area has an even ratio of Mexicans to ‘gringos’. Vacationers who only
speak English, should have no problem getting around in Todos Santos. Todos
Santos is located in a region referred to as Baja California, which is the
peninsula located directly south of San Diego.
Todos Santos - Baja California, Mexico
By Tomascastelazo,
via Wikimedia Commons
One of the suggested activities while staying in Todos Santos is to take
advantage of the excellent surf conditions, and jump into the ocean to catch some local surf. The Pescadero
Surf Camp is a great way to learn how to do more than just stand up on a surfboard. Even if you do not want to take part in the surf conditions by actually
getting out into the water, you
can enjoy just relaxing by the ocean and watching others surf.
Surfers at The Pescadero Surf Camp
Courtesy of pescaderosurf.com
If you are looking for a little more excitement, Cabo San Lucas is just a
short drive away. With Sammy Hagar’s Cabo bars and available boat trips, it
makes a perfect way to get away from the slower rhythm of the waves of Todos
Santos and have some louder, adult beverage-centered
fun.
The Arch - Cabo San Lucas
Most people who visit Todos Santos will simply relax, taking in the
beautiful sights and sounds the area has to offer.
14) Mexico City
Mexico City was once a very scary place to be due to the kidnapping industry, but has gone through some
major reforms to become a very safe travel destination. Wealthy, Mexican
nationals often purchased kidnapping insurance policies in response to what was
becoming a very profitable business for many drug cartels and terrorists.
Mexico City Skyline
Much like how New York’s
Times Square and most of New York was very dangerous in the late 1970s but is
now much safer, the Plaza Garibaldi is becoming a safer place to visit every
year.
Plaza Garibaldi
By EpMe,
via Wikimedia Commons
Mexico City is built in a basin, surrounded by mountains on all sides.
Pollution from automobiles is a serious concern because the surrounding
mountains block the prevailing winds from blowing the smog out of the city,
holding pollution right above the Mexico City skyline.
The Haze of Mexico City's Notorious Smog
By Fidel Gonzalez,
via Wikimedia Commons
Below the city you can
find ancient ruins like Aztec canals because long ago, Aztec's used Mexico City
for their civilization's cultural center. Other activities in Mexico City include attractions
like Frida Kahlo's old studio and museum that was shared with Diego Rivera
known as La Casa Azul, the pyramids at Teotihuacan, and some of the trendiest
dining in all of Mexico.
La Casa Azul
Pyramid of the Sun - Teotihuacan
La Ciudadela, Teotihuacan
By Wolfgang Sauber,
via Wikimedia Commons
One of the reasons for the shift in crime was thanks in part to the
Bicentennial celebrations, and the attempts by local government to beef up their
law enforcement presence. The government wanted to have a city that was
welcoming not only to Mexicans, but to people from all over the world. Their
efforts have paid off. The city now has a crime rate a third of Washington
D.C.'s which, when looking back at Mexico City's extremely violent past in
regard to kidnapping, was no small accomplishment.
View of Mexico City Skyline Contrasting Modern and Old
Structures
There are plenty of things to do while in Mexico City, and you will find it
difficult to see everything in just one trip. Whether you prefer to enjoy some
of the best of Mexico City's local cuisine, or you want to take advantage of the
many shopping locations, there truly is something for everyone in Mexico City. As the city becomes even more of a
tourist destination due to dropping crime rates, more modern hotels are starting to create luxury
accommodations for weary travelers looking for a clean and comfortable place to
rest their heads.
13) Puebla
If you like the safety and size of Mexico City, then you will love nearby Puebla. The
city may cover a large geographical area, but only 1.5 million people reside
there. It is lovingly referred to by locals and travelers alike as ‘mini Mexico
City’. There is something to do at every turn. Whether you are looking to take
in the sights of the old cathedrals or you want to try some of the local cuisine, you will find something to
suit you. Many who travel to Puebla prefer it to Mexico City, because it is possible
to enjoy the size of a larger Mexican city, without all of the hustle and smog
of Mexico's capital.
Puebla Cathedral
One of the best places to stay when you are in Puebla is in the city center.
The buildings surrounding the city's center are adorned with painted tiles and
can be very comfortable. It also
puts you right in the heart of everything, which is great because you will be at
the epicenter of every local attraction.
Santo Domingo Church - Puebla
Just step outside your door and start sampling some of the different food
Puebla has to offer. One dish in particular, known as the Arabic taco, is a
Middle Eastern-style flat bread filled with marinated pork. Those really looking
to try something extremely unique can try some escamole. This is a dish made
from ant larvae sautéed in butter.
Escamole
Those who enjoy it say it is just like eating rice, but you should defiantly
give it a try and draw your own conclusions on the dish.
Puebla is easy to access whether you want to stay there overnight or just to go on a day trip
from Mexico City. Jumping on a bus from the capitol takes about two hours to
access Puebla
and everything it has to offer.
View of Popocatepeti Volcano Near the Summit of
Iztaccihuati - Puebla
By Peko,
via Wikimedia Commons
12) San Miguel Allende
For those who are not aware of San Miguel Allende, it is one of the first
places that comes to mind when American expatriates are looking for a destination. The
town is small with only 62,000 people, and most of these are people who have
immigrated to Mexico to retire. Drug trafficking and crime is practically
unheard of in this small, sleepy town. To give you an idea of just how tame the
city is, it was the city featured in the movie 'Once Upon a Time in
Mexico'.
San Miguel Allende
Once a silver mining town, San Miguel Allende's geographical location is in
the central highlands just north of
Mexico City. Its elevation provides a unique view of Mexico City and makes much
of central Mexico accessible. Whether you want to spend your
entire stay in San Miguel Allende, or you want to visit on an overnight, it is
one city many feel a trip to Mexico would not be complete without stopping here.
View From Atop the Central Highlands
While staying in San Miguel Allende, take advantage of the many shops that
sell an assortment of handcrafted items that have helped to establish the town
as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.
Streets of San Miguel Allende
By Eric Chazaro Cavero,
via Wikimedia Commons
In addition to purchasing some outstanding mementos, you can also take your time
strolling through botanical gardens or enjoying the sights of the 17th century
cathedrals.
Handcrafted Mexican Folk Art
Top your day off with dinner at an organic farmer's restaurant which
will allow you to truly sample, as well as enjoy, authentic Mexican cuisine.
11) Merida
This old city is also known as the “real Mexico”. It still has the feeling of
17th century, which can be seen in the cathedrals built with Mayan
bricks.
Merida Cathedral
Cathedral of San Ildlefonso
Yet what makes the city so safe for travelers is its distance from many
of the major drug cartel controlled cities, and the violence they have become
infamous for. Merida is located four hours inland from Cancun. While it does not
have a view of the ocean, travelers can enjoy a feeling of being transported
into what Mexico used to be like.
Historic Archway in Merida
Locals love the town of Merida. If you are thinking about taking a day trip
here, remember that on the weekends the center of the town is closed off to
vehicles. It is converted into an open market for all to enjoy. You can enjoy
the fresh tastes and smells from the taco vendors, or enjoy the music from local
musicians playing on
open-air stages. It makes every weekend feel like a festival.
Montejo's House - Merida
Many who travel to Merida are only there for a day trip. Plan to show up on
the weekend, and consider staying overnight in one of the inns the city is
starting to become known for.
10) Guanajuato
While Guanajuato does not have as many expatriates as San Miguel de Allende (200
compared to 10,000), it is still a very safe place to visit.
Guanajuato
The culturally rich environment is safe at all hours, thanks to the mere fact
that the city does not have any significance to local drug cartels.
Colorful Houses Dotting Guanajuato's Hillside
While there are a lot of local festivities going on at night, the attractions
in Guanajuato are mostly centered on things the whole family can enjoy together.
This kind of cultural unity means there is a lack of tension present, and all
visitors have to worry about is having a good time.
Underground Traffic Tunnel - Guanajuato
Located five hours away from Mexico City by bus, Guanajuato is a great
destination for an October getaway. This is when the town celebrates their
annual festival, The Festival Internacional Cervantino.
Performing Pi-Leau in the Festival Internacional Cervantino
By Tlilmiztli,
via Wikimedia Commons
The town really comes to life with free activities for people of all ages,
races, and cultural backgrounds allowing everyone to come together regardless of
their financial position. Musical acts in Guanajuato vary from Mexico City punk
bands, traditional mariachis, and classical music playing orchestras. You can
also enjoy looking at both Mexican folk art and modern art.
Mummy Museum - Guanajuato, Mexico
By Russ Bowling,
via Wikimedia Commons
When the town is not alive with the festival, it is quite a colonial-styled
city. Enjoy everything Guanajuato has to offer, including the mummy museum. You
can also make a quick daytrip to see what is going on in nearby San Miguel de
Allende. If traveling from Mexico City, it will be a five hour bus trip, or you
can fly into a regional airport that is only 30 minutes away.
9) Playa del Carmen
The rumors of drug war violence and outbreaks of swine flu seemed to have missed Playa del Carmen
completely. This area is considered by many to be extremely
safe, which is why cruise ships make it a regular stop for Caribbean Sea cruises.
Playa del Carmen
Due to the influx of cruise ships and their guests, the town
lacks some of the charm that many of the older cities in Mexico demonstrate.
Playa del Carmen is truly a resort town, and is one of the best places to enjoy
some great shopping while vacationing in Mexico. If you have ever heard the
saying, "Don't drink the water", the funny thing is that in Playa del Carmen it
is actually safe, or at least safer, to drink the water. This is due to the
construction of numerous water treatment facilities that were constructed
because of the growing resort construction, occurring in the late 1990s.
However, most guests from the U.S. still prefer to use bottled water for the
entirety of their stay. Many visitors use it as a
daytrip destination rather than a staying there for a number of days.
Beautiful Beach line of Playa del Carmen
Others choose to make Playa del Carmen a destination because it provides
direct bus access to Cancun airport and other destinations along the Yucatan
Peninsula. Along with shopping for souvenirs, traveling along Fifth
Avenue will allow visitors to see taco stands, nightclubs and bars. The feel of
Playa del Carmen is that it is intended for a much younger crowd.
Playa del Carmen Oceanfront Properties
If you are looking to get away from the more touristy sections of Playa del
Carmen, you can walk a little to the north and take advantage of the remote
beaches that most tourists do not venture to. Snorkeling is perfect along these
beaches, with waters that are practically clear all the way down to 80 feet. Jump into the
depths of the Caribbean Sea, and enjoy a completely different, underwater world. The limestone sinkholes
constructed by the Mayans are another sight to experience. Comprised of
freshwater and steep walls, they provide the perfect opportunity to do some
extreme, freshwater cliff diving. Trips out to some of these ancient Mayan
sinkholes will require either renting a car, or booking a day trip by bus.
8) Huatulco
Huatulco is one of the safest places to travel to. Testimonials by visitors
indicate that they have never seen or heard of any evidence of drug violence. Parades such as the
100th Anniversary of the Mexican Revolution showcases a children’s parade, and
is
evidence of just how safe the city is. Some of the only concerns for visitors
include what you would normally find in any U.S. city.
Huatulco Marina
By Marrovi,
via Wikimedia Commons
Getting to Huatulco is extremely easy. You can fly into Oaxaca City or
Mexico City, and have direct access to the city. Once you arrive in the city,
you will realize how it has become one of the preferred resorts for travelers in
Mexico.
Huatulco International Airport
Huatulco was once a former fishing village and has developed into a resort
town, clearly accomplishing the goals of transitioning the town into an attractive
destination for vacationers.
Holland America Line's MS Maasdam Moored in Huatulco
Jean-Philippe Boulet,
via Wikimedia Commons
You will not only appreciate the relatively undisturbed coastline with no
buildings over six stories high, but you can also enjoy the more than 12 miles of
pristine beaches. There is always something to do in Huatulco. From touring
coffee farms to exploring nearby waterfalls, this once quietly modest village
has really come into itself as a vacation destination.
7) Oaxaca
The recent innovations in Oaxaca have made it one of the safest destinations to visit in Mexico. In addition to the historical
architecture throughout the region, there are many new restaurants and shops
that add a flair of the modern world to Oaxaca's old world charm.
Coastline of Oaxaca
City Streets of Oaxaca
It is not shocking that the restaurant scene would be one
of the main attractions in a city known for it's mole sauces. The recent additions
are as delicious as they are affordable, making it possible for travelers to get
something delicious as well as interesting to try out on vacation. Test out
something traditional alongside something that could only be borne from the mind of a modern chef.
Oaxaca
By Apsu09,
via Wikimedia Commons
One of the things Oaxaca is starting to become known for is its burgeoning
art scene. Studio art has been a big hit in Oaxaca, including the
galleries that show and sell all of the local art. Modern art rubs shoulders with
traditional art, giving art lovers something they can truly get excited about.
6) Valle de Bravo
Valle de Bravo is so safe that not only do American celebrities come to vacation, but
so do some of the richest residents in Mexico City. This region is referred to
as the lake country, and it seems that everyone wants to visit Valle de Bravo at
one time or another.
Aerial View of Valle de Bravo
Valle de Bravo has great Old
World charm qualities coupled with a variety of luxurious modern-day amenities.
Located just two hours from Mexico City, it is a perfect destination for your
entire vacation or even as a daytrip destination.
Valle de Bravo
By Marrovi,
via Wikimedia Commons
Among the biggest things that sets Valle de Bravo apart from typical American
luxury destinations such as Palm Springs, is that everything costs much less in
Valle de Bravo. You can expect to pay less than $150 a night to stay in any one
of the fantastic, luxury accommodations. While you are there,
you can check out some truly fine dining that is on par with Manhattan's Midtown fare. Valle de Bravo's
main drag also sports hip bars, where you can enjoy a drink while taking in
the sights and sounds of the city.
If you are looking for something a little more thrilling, you can get out on
the water of Lake Avandaro and even try some paragliding.
Paraglider, Lake Avandaro, and Valle de Bravo
By Focelote,
via Wikimedia Commons
The pine-forested hills surrounding Lake Avandaro
create the perfect backdrop for some serious relaxing.
5) Tulum
Historically, there have been an increase in reports of crime and burglaries in Tulum.
However, in recent history even these smaller problems seemed to have
dissipated. The area has joined the ranks as one of the safest places to visit
while in Mexico.
El Castillo - Tulum
The night life in Tulum is not exactly as booming as it is in Playa del
Carmen, but this may be exactly what you are looking for if you are searching for a great place to relax on your
vacation.
Beach in Tulum
Speaking of relaxing, Tulum has become a popular destination for those who
are into yoga. Seaside yoga offers an extremely tranquil way to get in touch
with your spiritual self. You can attend yoga classes and effectively relax your days away
while staying in Tulum. For those looking for things to do that are slightly more adventurous
in nature, scuba
diving is available for those who want to explore the nearby coral reefs. You can also
enjoy dipping into one of the nearby cenotes to try something different. A
cenote is a natural pit, or sink hole resulting from the collapse of limestone
bedrock that exposes underground freshwater.
Cenote Escondido - Tulum
Another way to unwind in Tulum is to check out the Mayan ruins that dot the
countryside. Nothing like truly getting away by exploring the history of ruins
that are more than 1500 years old.
Tulum Mayan Ruins
4) San Cristobal de las Casas
From the reports of tourists familiar with San Cristobal de las Casas, the
most dangerous aspect of San Cristobal de las Casas is the street itself. Cobblestones can become
very slick when they are wet.
Cobblestone Street of San Cristobal de las Casas
Those wearing flip-flops are advised to take cover and wait
until the rain has passed. Luckily, there are many great ways to take cover from
the rain thanks to copious terraces covered in red tile.
Templo de Santo Domingo Cathedral
The shopping in San Cristobal de las Casas is also a bit unique. Most of the
shops in the town are run by the indigenous people who live in the surrounding
mountains. These residents wear bright handmade garments and sell their handmade
wares to tourists and locals alike. When they close their shops at night, they
return home to their villages.
A Local Making Handmade Toys, Blankets, and Garmets
For a bit of history, travelers looking for things to do should take a
daytrip to Palenque. This is a historic location that is now no more than ruins, overrun with howler monkeys.
Ruins at Palenque
By Peter Anderson,
via Wikimedia Commons
It is still an awe-inspiring sight to see it in
the midst of the jungle, as if it were placed there rather than built by a
society. Palenque is about three hours away, so be prepared for a full day trip.
3) Santiago de Querétaro
Santiago de Querétaro has been rated as one of the safest cities in Mexico
because of it's low crime rate. It is easy to see why the city was chosen
as a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1996. This historical
city was at its peak in the 17th and 18th centuries, and has since preserved the
cultural history that was popular at the time. Today, the city works hard to
maintain the look and feel it has had over the course of its history.
Santiago de Querétaro
Travelers looking for things to do are welcomed to take it easy for a change
and enjoy everything Santiago de Querétaro has to offer.
Interior of Saint Rose of Viterbo Church and Convent
By Enrique López-Tamayo Biosca,
via Wikimedia Commons
Exterior of Saint Rose of Viterbo Church and Convent
By Enrique López-Tamayo Biosca,
via Wikimedia Commons
The narrow passageways
force you to take your time when moving from one stunning shop to the next. If
you have a sweet tooth, you will love the candy stands you will find throughout
the city.
Many feel that the quality of life offered to the more than two million
citizens is better than you might find in most North American cities. A
foundation in history and natural beauty are combined to create a city you will
remember for years to come.
2) Yucatán
Many who live and travel to Yucatán have a mindset that the city is a country
apart from Mexico. This is because while it has been given a bad name due to
Cancun and the Riviera Maya, Yucatán has remained free from crime. In fact, the
shocking doubling of drug-related deaths in 2010 only meant an increase from one
to two. The tourist structure in this city is highly developed and is supported
by several things to do for vacationers.
View of Mérida, Yucatán from the 18th Floor of Hyatt
By Kprateek88,
via Wikimedia Commons
Those who visit here will find that not only is the city itself a lot of fun,
but the people make the city a lot of fun to be in as well. By the account of
some, it is possible to keep going back to the Yucatán every year without ever
running out of things to do.
Chichen Itza - Yucatán
By Bjørn Christian Tørrissen,
via Wikimedia Commons
The beaches here are not crowded, the ecotourism is something to behold and
the cenotes offer a unique way to refresh. When you are not out exploring
everything the city and surrounding areas have to offer, you can enjoy the
breadth of possibilities from the grand haciendas. After a visit, you will start
to think of Yucatán as a country unto itself as well.
1) Tlaxcala
Another state that is called one of the safest places to visit is Tlaxcala. This
region has only seen 1.1 deaths for every 100,000 people. This small area is
between Puebla and Sierra Madre Oriental. The primary visitors to this Mexican
state are from Mexico. There are also a few German, French, and Swiss travelers
with history on their minds.
Government Palace - Tlaxcala
The architecture for the capital city of Tlaxcala as well as the surrounding
areas are of interest because they are pre-Columbian archeology sites. Keep in
mind that only seven of the 1,000 archeological sites are open to the public.
Spiral Pyramid - Tlaxcala
In
addition, if you are looking for things to do, this is an authentic cultural
attraction perfect for those who want to get away from the typical vacation crowds.
City Street in Tlaxcala
By Wolfgang Sauber,
via Wikimedia Commons
Final Words
While these are the 15 safest places of interest in Mexico to visit, there
are still plenty of other places to go in Mexico. You can even plan out an
itinerary to go several of the different locations mentioned above. Mexico is safe, as
long as you're not involved in the drug trade or trying to prevent the sale of
drugs like working with the Federal Police in Mexico, but restricting your
travel to the areas with the lowest amounts of crime will assure you of a much
safer Mexican vacation.
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