well-lit areas, and not alone. I stayed in hostels in Cancun and Oaxaca. I had a plan and told people where I was going and when I would return. I was careful to be aware of my surroundings and generally avoided dark alleys or streets. I asked locals and hostel staff about areas that may be unsafe.
I’m a 25-year-old who had always dreamed of going to Mexico for my birthday, so I decided to make it happen this year and travel solo. As my departure date draws near, however, I’m having second thoughts. Everywhere I look I see stories of cartel-related violence, and the thought of me being alone in a foreign country is making me very uneasy. I’ve heard people say that it’s not safe for a solo woman traveler, but I don’t think that’s necessarily true.
I recently went to Mexico by myself and took some simple precautions to keep myself safe. I rented a car and only drove during the day, on main roads and highways, and never alone at night. Whenever I wanted to drink, I made sure to do it during the day, in well-lit areas, and not alone. I stayed in hostels in Cancun and Oaxaca, and took care to be aware of my surroundings and avoid dark alleys and streets. I also made sure to tell people where I was going and when I would return, and asked locals and hostel staff about areas that may be unsafe.
The key to staying safe in Mexico as a solo woman traveler is to use common sense. If you’re aware of your surroundings, stick to main roads and highways, and make sure to tell people about your plans, you can greatly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of violence. Mexico is an incredible country with a rich culture, and you don’t need to miss out on the chance to explore it. With the right precautions in place, you can still enjoy a safe and memorable trip.