According to the U.S. Department of State, over 19 million Americans traveled to Mexico in 2018 alone. That number is only expected to rise in the coming years as more and more people discover the beauty and wonder of Mexican destinations like Akumal. Akumal is generally a safe place to visit, but there are some things you should keep in mind to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable trip.
Here’s what you need to know before traveling to Akumal, Mexico:
Do your research before you go. Familiarize yourself with the area and the local customs so that you know what to expect. This will help you avoid any cultural faux pas and will also help you be aware of any potential safety risks. For instance, it’s important to know that in some rural areas of Mexico, police officers may stop cars and ask for a bribe. If you’re prepared for this possibility, you can avoid being scammed or put in a dangerous situation.
Travel in groups whenever possible. There is safety in numbers, so it’s always best to travel with at least one other person. If you’re staying in a hotel or resort, make use of the security staff and do not venture off the property alone.
Be aware of your surroundings at all times. This means not wearing expensive jewelry or flashing wads of cash around in public. It also means being cautious when accepting drinks from strangers or venturing into unknown areas. Trust your gut instinct – if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
Know how to get help if you need it. Familiarize yourself with the local emergency number (it’s 911 in Mexico) and keep a list of important numbers (like the U.S. Embassy) handy in case of an emergency. It’s also a good idea to let someone back home know your itinerary so they can check in on you while you’re away.
Do not under any circumstances purchase illegal drugs while in Mexico as penalties can be extremely severe (up to 25 years in prison). It’s also important to be mindful of drinking water – only drink bottled water and avoid ice cubes as they may be made with tap water. Lastly, make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance before leaving on your trip as medical care in Mexico can be very expensive without insurance coverage.
Research Travel Warnings and Advisories. The first thing you should do before booking any travel plans is check for travel advisories and warnings issued by the U.S. Department of State. At the time of this writing, there are no travel advisories or warnings specifically for the state of Quintana Roo, where Akumal is located. However, there is a Level 2 Travel Advisory in place for all of Mexico due to crime and violence. The advisory recommends that travelers exercise increased caution when visiting Mexico and notes that tourist areas have been increasingly targeted by criminals.
If you do decide to travel to Akumal, it’s important to maintain a high level of security awareness at all times and take precautions such as keeping valuables out of sight, traveling in groups, and avoiding dangerous areas. You should also keep your passport and other important documents close at hand at all times in case you need them quickly.
Another important consideration when traveling to Akumal is your health and safety. Although there are no specific health advisories in place for Quintana Roo at this time, travelers should always consult their healthcare provider before travelling abroad to ensure that they are up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to purchase comprehensive travel insurance before departure so that you are covered in case of any unforeseen medical emergencies while abroad.
When it comes to safety, one of the most important things you can do is familiarize yourself with local laws and customs before arrival so that you can avoid accidentally breaking any rules or offending anyone during your stay. For example, public displays of affection are generally not well-received in Mexico, so it’s best to avoid kissing or holding hands in public places unless you are certain that it is acceptable behavior in that particular location. Overall, as long as you use common sense and follow basic safety precautions, you should have no problem staying safe during your time in Akumal.
Akumal is a beautiful Mexican destination that has something to offer everyone—from stunning beaches and turquoise waters to ancient ruins and charming small towns. With its close proximity to the United States, it’s no wonder that this popular tourism spot has seen a steadily increasing number of American visitors in recent years. However, it’s important to remember that Mexico does have a higher crime rate than many other countries, so it’s crucial to be informed about the risks before travelling there. By following some basic safety precautions and being aware of local laws and customs, you can help ensure that your trip to Akumal is both enjoyable and safe. Bon voyage!