This local guide . We know weve seen a lot of bad places in Mexico so far, but we can see there are still many amazing spots in Mexico that must not be missed. Regardless of when you decide to go (March to see more tourists; July to see more locals), safety will be the least of your concerns, if youll have any at all in a place like this. The Laredo bridges get very busy on the weekends, as you might imagine. With dozens of untouched beaches and the emerald peaks of the Sierra Madre del Sur providing a lush background, its a huge shame that Michoacan as a state is brimming with unlawful activities. Unfortunately, despite the countrys fascinating beauty and rich culture, not all of Mexico is a cheerful tapestry of cobblestoned streets and brightly coloured colonial buildings. The site of two bays, Baha de Manzanillo and Baha de Santiago, the port town is one of the most popular all-inclusive destinations in Mexico. 2 South Texas border cities named 'safest' in America This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Tourism is a large part of these cities local economy. Not only that, but people in Mexico will really appreciate the effort and will be warmer towards you too. The success in tamping down drug violence in Quintana Roo follows a similar improvement in Los Cabos a couple of years ago when U.S. authorities also collaborated with local officials in the state of Baja California Sur. Lastly, you say you'll spend the first night in Saltillo, but wonder if Colombia bridge opens at 8? If were looking to experience more traditional culture, this probably isnt the ideal place. Here is the relevant paragraph: "The United States and Mexico entered a joint initiative March 21, 2020, restricting non-essential travel along the U.S.-Mexico land border to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Its best to research the different areas, as some parts of Cancn can be dangerous. He recommends making a copy of your passport, remaining alert while walking home at night and not leaving your drinks unattended. Yet it still offers plenty of vacation-worthy attractions, like the excellent seafood restaurants along its waterfront, an incredibly warm vibe thanks to its friendly Campechanos, a city square often brilliantly aglow at night with stunning views onto its Plaza Principale, and even a 7km-long boardwalk (malecn). Midway between Merida and Cancun is Valladolid, a colorful and friendly city thats within easy driving distance of several beautiful cenotes. Pacheco says that Bacalar, also on the Yucatan Peninsula, is an amazing place, kind of unknown and definitely uncrowded. Don't drive. There are, after all, many wonderful cities, towns and resorts that sound so exotic and thrilling. If one must go, try to avoid going out alone at night or flashing money. A definite bummer, if you decide to travel here. Ive included Yelapa for folks who want a deeper Mexican experience, but note that its in one of the State Departments orange zonesso youll want to do a bit more research before choosing this part of Jalisco. Where to Stay: The Hotel Lagunita is right on the water, with amazing views and a pool from which to enjoy them. Unfortunately, it was only to pick up again, as it often does with these things, three years later in 2016. She can overnight in the McAllen/Harlingen area where she can find hotels starting at $40USD/night or she can overnight here in Monterrey that is full of affordable and comfortable hotels and drive straight to Houston the next morning without making stop on the Texas Valley area. Its the perfect place to visit for a spring break holiday. While there are . Where to Stay: La Casa del Atrio, across from the Museo de Arte, is both popular and affordable. With the highestunnatural deathrate in Mexico, you might want to avoid traveling to Colima. It has done so for its cultural depth and incredible diversity with a variety of dishes from tlayudas, quesillo and tamales, to chapulines and, of course, mole, the national dish, which the state, along with Puebla, claims to be native. Of course you are. Tijuana is a border city in Mexico, located just south of California. Surrounded by lush jungle mangroves and, on its Southern side, a vast array of fascinating fossil formations, this beautiful piece of lagoon paradise is not only one of the safest places in Mexico, but one of the most affordable too. One of the best is the Casona Maria Hotel Boutique, with its pretty courtyard and convenient location within walking distance of the historic center. With its powdery sands and turquoise waters, Cozumel is practically the epitome of paradise. You can also read about a little adventure I had during my crossing. 2. But theres another story here. The border crossing is actually located in nearby Anrade, California, and is open from 6 a.m. to . As you can imagine, this left Mexico's federal tourism department scrambling and "not immediately available to comment". The turnoff to Saltillo is easy to miss in Monterrey. This website uses cookies to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. As of right now we are choosing to go through the downtown Laredo bridge. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. The walled center is somewhat of a museum piece, but the life of the town surrounding it might even be the main attraction. Just a few years ago, Chihuahua City the states capital - was considered one of thesketchiest cities in the world. Vibrant, mesmerizing, and just plain gorgeous, its no wonder the city is teeming with expats from Canada, the U.S. and Europe studying Spanish, learning to cook, or just plain enjoying la dulce vita. The Laredo bridges get very busy on the weekends, as you might imagine. But dont throw the mezcal out with the tequila just yet. Of all the places to visit Mexico, Mrida is the safest for a vacation with your family, with safe neighbourhoods and a charming vibe. One of them, widely known for hosting trafficking routes, is the Northern Mexican state of Sinaloa. In many ways, Mexico is like that wild cousin you see at Christmas every year: He may have some quirks, but hes family, and, like everything else in life, comes as a package both good and bad. Whats not to love about this place? However, Puebla is primarily famous for its Talavera pottery and sweet and spicy food. . Driving to Mexico: Absolutely stupid or doable? [Serious] - Reddit Despite local police efforts to shield tourists from seeing the worst of what is happening, with two club shootings in Playa del Carmen last year, the recent explosion on a ferry in the resort town this year, and a string of violence in Acapulco over the past several years, cartel-related crime seems to be crouching on tourist territory. . Not only is this Mexican border state home to the oldest vineyards in all of the Americas, but the Parras Valley, where they are mostly found, is replete with beautiful backdrops that are so inspiring. Pierre de Hail, the president of Janus Group Mexico, a risk management company in Monterrey, is skeptical that security has improved. Taxi drivers then began harassing and threatening Uber drivers. It gets hot here too, with an average high of between 90-100 F all year. Make sure you have pesos for the tolls. He wrote for IndependentTraveler.com for more than 20 years, producing hundreds of columns on travel and offering his expertise on radio and television. In this post, I will tell you about the most common options you have for crossing borders from Mexico to Guatemala by bus, from Tapachula, San Cristobal de las Casas and Frontera Corozal. The 9 Most Dangerous Places in Mexico: Deadliest Cities Merida is also a well-known destination for celebrating equinoxes. And while both the city and the state by the same name are safe to travel to with no restrictions, youll want to take it easy like any traveler should when drinking in a foreign country. Many are clicking away to book their trip at other destinations, but dont throw the mezcal out with the tequila just yet. Violence in Sonora. From freshly pressed juices to yoga retreats and on-site massages in private villas to decked out cabaas on the beach, this sleepy little beach town has all the fixings while remaining wonderfully devoid of any travel restrictions. Edited by Liz O. Baylen and Mike Benoist. The ruling infuriated the powerful unions, which are believed to have links to local organized crime figures and former governors. Illegal activitiesare a big thing here which is why we should avoid it. Bordered by Coahuila and Tamaulipas, we can see why that would be the case. All of these cells are operating not only (though mainly) in the metropolitan area of Guadalajara and its municipalities, but also throughout the state. For the most authentic experience in Mexico, head to Guadalajara. The places where thousands cross the US-Mexico border on foot - CNN It is touristy but not too touristy for us to not to be able to experience this towns culture. Most of Mexicos border states and towns are the areas to avoid because they pose high safety risks. California only borders the Mexican state of Baja California and a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit (TIP) is not required to drive on the Baja Peninsula. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. Tulum is a popular resort town in Mexico, especially for luxury travellers. Head to Palancar Beach, Paradise Beach or Faro Celerain Eco Park for amazing views and spectacular diving. The hotels/motels between Laredo and (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Is Mexico Safe for Travel? (Honest Advice for 2023) Mexican Border Towns: Where to Visit From the US - World Nomads Three airports in the state of Sinaloa, including the beach destination Mazatln, were closed on Jan. 5 amid gang violence after Mexican security forces arrested Ovidio Guzmn Lpez, a son of Joaqun Guzmn Loera, the crime lord known as El Chapo, who is serving a life sentence in the United States. We dont want to worry about getting robbed or caught up in something dangerous on our vacation. This number includes two dams, one hand-drawn ferry, and 25 other crossings that allow commercial, vehicular and pedestrian traffic. To make matters worse, this wasan accident, a classic case of being at the wrong place at the wrong time. Original music by Dan Powell and Marion Lozano . more. Once n. Texas, if her car has Mexican plates, she won't have to pay the tolls, as Texas has no billing agreement with Mexico. Cartel violence, by gangs including the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (top right), has taken over tourist hotspots from Cancun to Tulum, Mexico, leaving foreign vacationers like Jennifer Henzold . I dont know about you, but I would say things are heating up in this hot little country. Located on the Texas border between Mexico and the U.S., Tamaulipas offers a key strategic opportunity thats been all too irresistible to the areaskingpins looking to smuggleillegal substancesto the United States. Additionally, at 7,200 feet above sea level, Puebla never gets too hot, and its considered one of the safest places in Mexico. Here's a link to the wiki page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laredo%E2%80%93Colombia_Solidarity_International_Bridge. Travel Smarter! Safe or not, border cities aren't worth it. Its a tough pill to swallow with recent headlines in April about film students in Guadalajara beingharmed by a new cartel on the block. They say their aim is to reach Mexico City. Playa del Carmen. Where to Stay: Guests appreciate the clean, comfortable rooms and fast Wi-Fi at the centrally located Posada Luna del Sur. Title 42 set to end, but new asylum restrictions could replace it Why visit Guanajuato? Airports shuttered amid gang violence in Sinaloa. Page not found Instagram From there, traffickers andkingpins who win the turf war gain access to the voracious and lucrative USillegal substancemarket. With so much to offer, aren't you glad to learn thatMexico City is one place you don't have to avoid? San Miguel de Allende. Yet, the largest pyramid in the world which is, in fact, four times its size and, thus, the largest monument ever built on earth, happens to be in asmall town in Mexico called Cholula. There are also a number of security measures in place to keep residents and visitors safe, including fences and surveillance cameras. It's just a short hours drive away, makingtourists opt to stay far longer than the usual one-day outing made to the town. Situated on the Texan border between the US and Mexico, Tamaulipas is a state with many beautiful lakes and fishing opportunities. Medical Tourism in Mexico | Affordable, Safe and Quality Medical Tourism Safest Mexican border cities and towns in U.S., from FBI data - Axios There are occasional reports of violence, but for the most part, the border is peaceful. A veritable paradise for those who love to get around by bicycle, Tulums rustic, back-to-nature style offers visitors a decidedly different type of vacation experience. It also boasts some of the best cuisine in the Western Hemisphere. Theres a homemade Mexican-style breakfast every morning. Building on an already rich culinary history, its signature sandwich-like dish cemitas, its famous chili-chocolate flavoured mole poblano(where the national dish actually originates), and its so-local-its-exclusive-to-the-state raisin shot drink, thepasita, are only among some of the reasons visitors flock to this incredible city in droves year after year. Is that safe? Arizona Border Town: What is it like to live by and visit Naco, Mexico Safest route from Chihuahua City to the border? Hosted by Sabrina Tavernise. However, if we want to stay safe and prevent putting ourselves in any danger, its wise to avoid Sinaloa. More than likely, however, the biggest draw isits wild sense of possibility. The cartels focus of violence is in the countryside; Puerto Vallarta and the beaches to its north, including the exclusive peninsula of Punta Mita and the surfers hangout of Sayulita, are all booming and, despite drug sales, the cartels control seems to limit open conflict. In Valladolid, you cant go wrong at the centrally located Hotel Posada San Juan. Regardless of its multiple plus points, were not going to mask Mexicos darker side. Wealthy expats and holidaying Europeans vacation at the beachside lounges of the gorgeous Playa del Carmen which, by the way, has the best beaches in Mexico. You can visit Guanajuato as a day trip from nearby San Miguel de Allende or use it as a home base in itself. Still, its a great pity that tourists are warned against this state because it used to be so peaceful and still is beautiful. Between Parras Valley and Sierra Madre Oriental pine-oak forests, theres no doubt about it that Coahuila is a beautiful place. With the worlds most fascinating Aztec history, unbelievably delicious food (oh my gosh, the food! Is Juarez, Mexico Safe? Safety Guide To Mexico's Border Town Still, many are left wondering if Mexico is undergoinga war of perception. This beautiful spot will make for numerous unforgettable memories that you will treasure for ever. San Miguel de Allende is one of the safest places in Mexico, as evidenced by its popularity with expats. The Lincoln Bridge, or bridge #1, has no customs or immigration,and the customs caseta @ KM 21 is longer. I assume you're just gonna declare your goods instead of trying to bring them in duty-free? No gang violence here, butthrill seekers can still get their fix, from its 680 metre long telefrico (cable car), to its 80 metre high ferris wheel offering spectacular views of Izta and Popo, to its famed twin volcanos Iztacchuatl and Popocatpetl, the former of which is even open for climbing and sight-seeing. Despite all of this activity, the border is relatively safe. If only the place itself were as cute as the dog. SAN ANTONIO (KTSA News) There has been a lot of political chatter about whether cities on the U.S.-Mexico border are actually "safe" or "among the safest in the nation." . This is increasingly making this once-secret spot a favourite among travel Instagrammers, hammock-dwellers and cabaa queens alike. Whether you want to explore the Museo Nacional de Antropologia, the Templo Mayor or justexperience the citys food and nightlife scene, every visitor is guaranteed to find something here in this bustling city. Visually, its not a bad place. Placed under the U.S. State departments highest Level 4 'Do Not Travel' advisory for obvious reasons, you would certainly think that Colima in its entirety would be one big no-no. Little towns are scattered all along the coast, and one, Playa del Carmen, has matured into a fully-fledged city. Like Todos Santos mentioned below, Bacalar holds the official designation as a Pueblo Magico, or Magical Town, due in large part to the lagoon. Queretaros streets are a wondrous mix of old and very old, as grid-like Spanish streets connect to the pre-Hispanic winding lanes from the time of the Otomi.