(Safe) Travel in Mexico —A Unicorn or Not a Big Deal
The low down on travel in Mexico
I have grown accustomed to the reaction that I get when I say that I am going to Mexico. In fact, when I tell the majority of folks that I am travelling to Mexico I get a wide-eyed fearful gaze.
The specific destination is insignificant. Most just know Mexico as the place ‘south of the border.’ The land of the drug lords and caravans — thank you (not) Mr. Trump.
You need to understand that I live in the Midwest. In fact, I am a life long resident of the state of Ohio. I grew up in the middle of a corn field — yes an actual corn field. It was not until I was in high school that I had my first taste of what I thought was Mexican food — yup — Taco Bell. Don’t judge me.
Fast forward several decades, and through a series of events, some accidental and some planned, I find that I am in a love affair with the country of Mexico. I find that I am in awe of their culture, their language, their food. The whole enchilada. Pun intended.
Primer for Mexican Travel — First things First
Mexico for Beginners — Travel 101
My first trip years ago was to the legendary All-Inclusive resorts of the Riviera Maya. You are correct. Me and 99.9% of everyone that has been to Mexico.
This taste of Mexico intrigued me and made me curious. It is obvious that this version of the Mexican culture if a facade. A plastic coated rendition of what the country has to offer. The resort staff’s stiff smiles and fearful glances when they don’t think you are looking were a tell.
Rest assured. Resort life leaves you to want for nothing. You will eat and drink until you can eat and drink no more. You will be more relaxed than you have ever been relaxed in your life.
It only takes one quick day trip into the surrounding villages to see that the resort experience is a cheap version of what there is to see. Further, it is obvious that we were missing so much.
Mexico — the Intermediate Level
Future trips found us exploring new areas.
Similar to the vast degree of differences in the United States, Mexico has regional personalities. Think of comparing Orlando to New York City.
For the intermediate level experience, we visited Guadalajara and Merida. Both friendly to non-Spanish speakers yet clearly not the falsity of the resort life. These more urban cities are easy to navigate, offer easy access via nearby major airports, and many familiar brands. You can easily find accommodations with Holiday Inn or Marriott. There are familiar food brands such as Subway and Dominoes pizza. There are comforting retail outlets such as Walmart and Home Depot.
Mexico — the Expat Lifestyle
Eventually, we have discovered our home away from home. The west coast of Mexico has drawn not only us, but a large number of other Americans as well as Canadians and other nationalities.
Specifically, the Puerto Villarta region is a magnet to a growing population of ex-pats. What draws us and thousand others like us there? Many things are attractive in this area including a diverse and inclusive population, favorable economic climate, as well as the amazingly great food.
Matters of Safety
At this point, I am sure you are wondering at what point am I going to get to the safety part of this article. Right?
So here is the deal.
I honestly have no concerns. Well, very few anyway.
Remember how I shared that I have lived in Ohio my entire life? Yes, well in my life I have been robbed, assaulted, had a friend murdered, and had multiple acquaintances shot or stabbed.
Strangely enough, in my travels to Mexico over the years, I have experienced none of this. In Mexico you will find that the police do an excellent job of maintaining a lawful society. In addition, the Mexican culture is one of friendliness and open hospitality.
Definitely. NO. BIG. DEAL.
To answer my initial question — “Safe Travel in Mexico — A Unicorn or No Big Deal” the answer is, without a doubt, no big deal.
Despite the media hype and any fear mongering that may be prevailing in the American media, travel well my friends.
