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- “I'll have a Tecate, please.”
- “Le voy al América.” (I support Club América [a Mexican football team].)
- “I'm American.”
- “I love South America!”
- “Una quesadilla sin queso, por favor.” (A cheeseless quesadilla, please.)
- “I love burritos!”
- “Do you speak Mexican?”
- “I don't have change.”
Mexico State (Estado de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution due to crime. Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico State. Use additional caution in areas outside of the frequented tourist areas, although petty crime occurs frequently in tourist areas as well.
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But if you're stuck wondering if it's safe to travel to Cancun, our answer is a definite yes! Since Cancun brings so much revenue to Mexico, they've got a vested interest in safety and security within the Hotel Zone. Even outside of that area, Cancun is still known as a safe city with a low crime rate.
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Latest update:There's a high rate of violent crime in Mexico, especially after dark. Kidnapping and extortion are serious risks (see 'Safety'). We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico overall due to high levels of violent crime.
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Much like in the U.S., in Mexico, it is customary to tip service workers in restaurants, hotels, and Ubers. The standard tip is 10% of the bill, but you can give more or less depending on the quality of service. Tipping is not required, but it is appreciated.
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However, in Mexico, interrupting someone is considered rude and disrespectful. Listening attentively and allowing the other person to finish speaking before responding is important. And sometimes Mexicans can be long-winded talkers. But it's important for you to wait your turn to get your point across.
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It's up to you how much you tip, but the recommended amount in Mexico is between 10% – 20% (15% is a good standard in tourist areas) of the bill or ticket price.
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Dollars or pesos? In most tourist areas in Mexico, it is acceptable to tip in either pesos or dollars, though pesos are more practical for the person being tipped. If you do tip in dollars, be sure to only tip using notes and not coins as coins cannot be exchanged.
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At food stalls and low-cost eateries (fondas and cocinas economicas) most patrons do not leave a tip, but if you do give one, it is greatly appreciated. When drinking at a bar, whether it be in town or at your all-inclusive resorts, it is appropriate to tip 20 pesos per drink, or the equivalent to $1 USD.
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When it comes to safety in Mexico, some of the safest states with a good reputation include Palenque, Puerto Escondido, Isla Mujeres, Sayulita, and Todos Santos. These states have lower crime rates and are popular among both locals and expats.
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U.S. citizens must present a valid U.S. passport book or card, in addition to an entry permit (Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM) issued by Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM). Travelers should be sure to enter Mexico with valid proof of automobile registration, even if remaining in the border zone.
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The city in Mexico considered the safest with the lowest crime rate is Merida, located in Yucatan. It's also one of the most affordable cities in Mexico, making it a popular destination for retirees and expats. Merida's low crime rate makes it an excellent choice for visiting or living.
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In general, the most popular resort areas are safe to travel to, and many tourists have no intention of leaving the resort. However, if you plan on venturing off your resort to explore, you should still take necessary safety precautions even if you are not visiting a “Do Not Travel” state.
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