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- How To Stay Safe In Cozumel, Mexico
Some destinations cause a bit of hesitancy when it comes to the level of safety that travelers will experience while there. When it comes to safety in Mexico, several cities have received a poor rap in terms of crime and while this might be true to some extent, it's not necessarily true in parts of Mexico such as Cozumel.
This somewhat remote island off the coast of Playa del Carmen has seen some headlining new stories, but nothing that should deter tourists from considering it. With that being said, there are always extra precautions that can be taken to avoid getting into an unsavory situation on vacation.
UPDATE: 2022/11/30 15:26 EST BY AARON SPRAY
How To Stay Safe In Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel is one of the safest parts of Mexico, but still, people are urged to take care when visiting any part of Mexico. This article was updated with some official travel advice and to provide a greater picture of the safety situation in Cozumel and the rest of Mexico based on the advice of the US Department of State. There are parts of Mexico no one should visit. Fortunately, Cozumel is a place even US government employees can visit without restrictions.
Updated by Joshua Chiedu, January 11, 2022: Crime is one important thing to take into account when visiting a destination; especially one in the Mexican region. The good news is that Cozumel is low on crime. But that’s not all; There are other important information travelers need to know before visiting this Island. These include the Island’s description, its language, activities to enjoy, and also some tips to ensure travelers have a great time on their visit to the Mexican Island.
What To Know About Cozumel
Cozumel is the largest Island among Mexico’s Caribbean Islands. San Miguel, its largest city, is considered to be the main town on the Island. The primary language is Spanish but English is also widely spoken. Cozumel is richly endowed with lush mangrove forest and beautiful beaches. The Island is also home to lots of endemic animals such as the Cozumel harvest mouse and the Cozumel Island Raccoon. The most popular activities to enjoy here include - snorkeling, fishing, visiting wildlife parks, and sailing.
Safety In Cozumel, Mexico
When it comes to the official crime rating for Cozumel, Numbeo reports it as being 'low' with a score of 34.48 out of 100. While any number for a crime level might seem high, travelers must consider the fact that this number takes into account every single crime that has the potential to occur. Therefore, out of a total of 11 of the most common crimes, this is the median number that has been averaged - meaning that even if one crime, in particular, has more of a chance of occurring, the overall crime rate is still low.
Additionally, travelers should feel safe knowing that Numbeo has reported a 'very low' level of random attacks, and 'low' crime levels regarding theft, robbery, mugging, assault, or anything involving illegal substances. Overall, there aren't many threats to travelers according to the information reported by both travelers as well as those who live there.
The safety rating for people walking in Cozumel during the day is 88 which is considered 'very high' while the safety level for walking around the island at night is 68, which is still considered 'high.' So, what can travelers do to keep these high safety ratings accurate?
Take Safety Into Your Own Hands
It's more likely that a visitor to Cozumel will end up in hot water due to something of their own volition rather than something that happens to them. For example, Coz Info reports seeing more incidents from people renting motorized scooters without knowing how to drive them over things such as theft. Another common mistake is when a tourist underestimates the skill it takes to do something such as snorkeling or scuba diving, especially and ends up in a potentially dangerous situation.
Another way that travelers often end up in bad situations is by drinking too much when they're out, thus leaving themselves wide open for petty crime. It wouldn't be the first time that someone has left their purse, wallet, or phone at a table while enjoying the nightlife, and it's a true recipe for disaster. However, at the same time, this applies to anywhere - not just in Cozumel!
What To Watching Out For (That Wouldn't Be User Error)
It's important to know that much of the crime and violence that travelers believe to be true about Mexico is fueled by film and TV. Any serious crime is likely to happen at the border which is why there's such a heavy police force. In a remote, quite, and relaxing place as Cozumel, it's not likely that travelers will run into anything within the same realm of the crime that occurs in a place such as Baja.
Therefore, it's a good idea to simply take the same precautions in Cozumel that one would in any city. For example, when visiting New York City for the first time, it wouldn't be the greatest idea to walk down an empty alleyway at night. Similarly, it wouldn't be a good idea to flaunt expensive jewelry or items in a place one is unfamiliar with. Being aware of one's surroundings and avoiding any situation where disorientation is a possibility would also be wise. Those requiring taxi transportation can find sitios, which are hubs for registered taxis whose drivers carried laminated cards with their information, including taxi fees. Additionally, visitors should avoid renting mopeds no matter how confident they might be in their motorbiking skills.
Additional Things To Consider
It's a well-known rule that tourists should avoid drinking the water in Mexico. This rule also applies to Cozumel and it would do a traveler well to inquire about the source of water in their resort or hotel. Concerning restaurants, a majority of them do use prepared (bottled) water to cook with, but it's always a good idea to double-check with one's server to be sure.
Travelers should bear in mind weather safety, as well - hurricane season usually hits the hardest between June and October. It's worth it to seek out hotels and resorts that ensure a 'hurricane guarantee' if the weather takes a turn for the worst.
More Tips For Travelers Visiting Cozumel
- Avoid parts of the beach where there are red or black flags. These signify dangerous sea conditions.
- Get travel insurance before visiting Cozumel for full preparation.
- In most cases, pay in Pesos to avoid rip-offs.
- It is very sunny in Cozumel which makes sunscreens, sun glasses, and hats important things to bring along.
- For transportation, taxis are cheaper than rented cars.
- To avoid foot injuries from sharp objects, wear shoes on the beaches.
- Consider tipping good service providers.
What Is The Overall Safety Situation In Mexico?
The Australian government urges its citizens to be careful while visiting Mexico. They advise against protests, large public gatherings, not traveling out of the major cities at night, watching out for criminality (e.g. robbery, assault, kidnapping), stopping at all roadblocks, and only using ATMs in public spaces (and during the daytime).
The US Department of State has similar advice and cautions American citizens about visiting due to the high levels of crime in the country.
The Department of State also has a breakdown of travel advice for each state of Mexico. For some travelers are advised not to travel to, others to reconsider the need to travel, others to exercise increased caution, and only a couple to exercise normal precautions.
Cozumel is in Quintana Roo state and the Department urges "exercise increased caution". Also, there are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state. They caution travelers to remain in the tourist locations, the well-lit pedestrian streets, and to watch out after dark.