The way I always describe it is as a tourist, your chances of running into trouble are extremely rare if you take normal precautions like you would anywhere else in the world. But in very urban areas you are definitely at risk of pick-pockets and have to watch out for that (again common sense) and if you don't speak Spanish, you will be more easily taken advantage of and maybe overcharged. In my experience, having made the effort to learn Spanish and become like the locals, I've never had a single scary experience living in Mexico or traveling within it, but I think speaking the language is a huge help!
Accurate video. Extra advice for future visitors: It's helpful to avoid dressing as a stereotypical tourist, instead observe and try to blend with the locals as much as possible; avoid putting yourself in vulnerable situations like getting very drunk, especially if you're alone (that goes for both women and men); even when you're using UBER or apps alike, don't ever low your _situational awareness_ (applies for *_a-n-y-_*_ country_ of the world, from Mexico to the USA, etc.)! And finally, be respectful and use common sense, don't be neither paranoid nor naïve, but do be _aware_ of your surroundings. Enjoy your stay!
My husband and I are from California and planning a trip to Mexico City for a few days. Please advise us on the best and safest places to stay. Should we take an Uber/Didi over taxis? Any advice to keep us safe is greatly appreciated! Too bad we can't meet up with you! Thank you so much! Thanks for the video, too!
This is a great conversation you're having, and much needed. One real fact, is that post pandemic, 49% of Mexico is living below the poverty line. The cities that you mentioned in the US that have extreme problems with crime, also have issues with poverty, access to good paying jobs, affordable healthcare. Here in Jalisco, job creation is helping create a robust middle class that is curbing some of the crimes of opportunity that come with desperate living situations. With that said, I've also encountered many grifters in Mexico, with means, targeting ex-pat communities, looking for vulnerabilities. Be aware of your surroundings, do additional fact checking/research when relocating to an area and include people from many different facets of life in your circle of friends. This should help with situational awareness in a new country. Can't wait to check out more of your content! ~Salud
Thanks for your comments. I’m really interested and fell in love with in San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato, but keep hearing about an explosion of cartel homicides. It’s bumming me out. What are your thoughts?
@@rickquintero8577 Hola Rick! Thanks for reaching out. The following thoughts are of a personal nature and should be researched more on your own time. With that said, Mexico is currently experiencing some growing pains in terms of economic growth, political ideology and overall security of each individual state. In my opinion, it would be best to wait out the next 2 years of the current administration, governed by the Morena party and lead by President Lopez Obrador. Why? Because there are serious issues being debated currently in regards to immigration policy...more specifically, who Mexico would like to see stay and who they would like to see go. It is very unclear for those of us living here, whether the climate/attitude towards foreigners will change drastically, with the rise of xenophobic rhetoric being echoed by the current administration. The next presidential election should set the tone for the next 6 years regarding this matter. I, myself, have chosen to stay here indefinitely, but should the climate change to something more hostile and uninclusive of foreign investment and migration, it may be time for even me to move on. All in all, my advice to you is to read up more about local issues through english news sites, join facebook groups with similar interests, join the discussion where ever possible and you should find your answer. Best wishes...Salud!
@@LoadingNewSIM thank you, kind of reminds me what people were saying when Donald was Pres over here. I should get more informed on politics in Mexico. My wife got her green card, and I got my dual citizenship and INE card, but mostly we are in the SF Bay Area.
@@rickquintero8577 Good observation! Both Trump and Obrador Lopez had very similar nationalist platforms. Both friends with Putin and both left each other alone, all in all ; ) ...I didnt mean to discourage you, btw. I made the move from SF around 2016 and have no regrets. I did do quite a bit of research before hand and was flying down once a month for about 6 months to explore different areas...when i still had free time. Covid changed the mindset down here for a bit, but a sense of normalcy is returning. Feel free to reach out anytime with additional inquiries. Best wishes to you and your partner on your future move!
Hello Serg, I saw your video on safety in Mexico and really liked it. I want to ask for your thoughts or advice. I have a trip planned to the Copper Canyon on January 15 and I’m worried now about the recent violence that there has been in Sinaloa. the people there I’m staying with in Airbnb's are reassuring me that things will be back to normal, but I’m still worried. I made the same trip 15 years ago so I know where I’m going and what to expect. I plan to fly to Los mochis then take the El Chepe to several locations in the Copper Canyon and stay a couple days each. I'll end up staying in Los Mochis a total of 3 days. I wasn’t worried at all until this happened last week, but I guess I’m looking for some kind of advice in case I’m missing something and not considering everything I should be. thanks for your video and do you have any thoughts on this? Dan Svrchek
Been Mexico City 5x. Does got picket pocket issues target tourists especially in Condessa, Roma’s Norte, reforms, Polanco, and downtown. Since those areas attracted foreigners. Don’t leave your bags unattended on tables or hang on chair in cafe/ restaurants. Wear bags on crossbody and on your lap when eating. Also, hold ur bag handles when walk around so can’t be grab by theft. Don’t leave your iPhone on tables. Front or back pockets. Put inside jacket’s pocket or zip pocket front. Alway, put hand on pocket check still there. Don’t use large peso, change smaller 20 -50 Pesos when pay on street to avoid short change. Also, locals don’t wear flip flop or shorts. Avoid tank top or expose cleavage, get harassment (females).CDMX dress more semi formal vs. beach town.
Don't drive at night not because of crime but because of farm animals and wildlife on the roads. No street lights and all of a sudden you see a cow in the road and you're going sixty.
En el tema de seguridad u otros rubro sociales importantes , la cdmx, es la que mayores avances ha tenido . (Plenamente documentado) En el tema exclusivo de la seguridad pública ,como nativo de la cdmx ,puedo decir tajante ,que no ha habido un momento tan seguro como el que hoy vive la ciudad . Ya para caminar de madrugada , por av. Reforma, a la altura del barrio de Tepito , y que no te pase nada , es porque algo muy importante ocurrió . Y no es un juego , estoy hablando de un area de la ciudad ,en la que ocurrían (según datos oficiales)hasta siete homicidios diarios . De robos y asaltos ultra violentos ; ya te imaginaras la situación tan dramática . . Eran los años cuando te asaltaban con lujo de violencia en plena plancha del zócalo . Hoy ,eso es imposible.
I know many people who have done so (including my sister). In terms of safety, it's a good idea to cross the border in the morning and drive in daylight. Also, it's always good to know where you're driving through because there certainly are dangerous areas. However, definitely doable and you get to explore some of the most beautiful places in the country this way
It's huge country and depends on what your preferences are. I still surf so I love living in Ensenada. The weather is perfect year round, everybody I've met is friendly and helpful, my dollar goes a really long way and I'm close to my old home and friends in Southern California. Although I have to admit when I go back to visit friends I can't wait to get back here. If you want a stress free high quality of life, don't wait the time will never be just right. Buena suerte!
You must not be very aware of your surroundings or priveledged enough to stay in the safest parts of Mexico unlike the locals. How safe you think you feel has zero correlation to how realistically and statistically safe a place is. Things can look fine anywhere until people die. Its better to be balanced and realistic like the UA-cam poster instead of having extreme views that are not accurate. Look at the number of you tubers who have been kidnapped or nearly kidnaaped for human trafficking in Mexico and hear their stories it'll open your eyes. Listen to OG Shadow reporting from Mexico
I guess everyone's experience is different. There are also an estimate 1 million Americans living in Mexico so it's really about what place works best for you:)
I agree with everything you said. I'm here in Mexico this week as a solo traveler and Thank God, I have not experienced any trouble. everyone is so nice and so patient with my "No Hablo Espanol."...lol. I even left my laptop at a café and security kept it safe for me. Wonderful country & wonderful people. There is safety issues in every part of the world. Just be cautious.
@@rickquintero8577 I'm leaving at the end of this month. Heading to Cuba or Costa Rica....I loved loved my stay in MX but I can't stay any longer w/my visa
@@Vasper79 oh I see, well those are two very good options. My friend from Frankfurt Germany just bought an apartment in Havana and loves Cuba, I’ve never been there. I’ve been to Costa Rica, it’s beautiful!
Thank you for this. It definitely is a slap in the face to the folks who live in Mexico City when travel vloggers make it seem like the safest place. Like you said some folks don’t have the option to choose where they live. I have family in el DF and I hear everything that they go through from robberies, assaults and cops asking them for mordidas.
Talk to them, let them know what you did wrong, most of them are just curious to see who you are and how you behave to them, if you nice, they treat you nice and probable will let you got without problems (no bribe), but if they feel you rude or scary about the situation, don't to the bribe first if he doesn't ask or makes a signal about it, if the officer offers you the only solution is to pay something to them, then proceed, there's nothing you can do about.
Yes, talking with the police explaining what you are going to do and acting chill is important. It happens to locals, too. Everyone tries to urn a bit. So just be aware you are not paying wayyyy more then the locals but other than that you sometimes have to pay. I find if you are enthousiast about your travels they often are happy with an interesting chat with you. I often tell that I have people waiting for me and know me there.
Great video! Thank you! I'm from Los Angeles and felt way safer in Mexico City in the nicer parts (Condesa, Polanco) - I live in a similar area in LA but don't walk around at night. I felt OK in Condesa, but it's true - you always have to be aware of your stuff, your surroundings, how populated areas are - no matter where you are! I think people from big cities get that automatically. I've traveled the world multiple times in hugely pick-pocketed places and have been just fine.
Serg is very right about everything here, and yet I would like to add: Watch out for the non violent crime! Very recently, bank frauds are becoming common in Mexico. Some people that work in the banks know which accounts have a lot of money, and they have personal data, so they call the account owner and simulate that it's all a real bank call. They tell you about some fake problem, ask for card numbers and if you believe it, your account is screwed. If this happens to you, nobody will help you. Mexico has tricksters for everything, from stealing a purse, to stealing cars and draining millionaire bank accounts in the blink of an eye. Trust nobody, avoid dangerous areas and stay safe!
@@organic-artistic If you open the account, do not keep more than thirty thousand pesos in it. If you need more, open other accounts at various banks. If they call you, never listen to them, just say that you will go to the bank in person and end the call. If in the bank, they ask for your phone so they can install some app in it, leave. I am happy to help you!
Yes! We use our US credit card for 90% of purchases and have a Mexican account that we use basically only to withdraw cash if we need it. We transfer funds using wise which has pretty good rates. So our Mexican bank account never has more than a like 500 dollars max. Just be sure that if you use a US bank account that there's no foreign transaction fees and that they use the market exchange rate and not a fixed rate that they establish. This is also good if you are victim of some kind of scam, you deal with the customer service of your own bank which will be better probably.
@@organic-artistic I live in Mexico, and I can give you a few extra tips: *1)* _Avoid opening bank accounts in small banks,_ the smaller the bank the higher the chances of things going south. If you need to open an account, then make your research and choose a major and reputable bank. *2)* _Gradually_ start openning accounts in multiple banks. It's wise to have multiple accounts (2-3), not only because that diversify your investments but also because that's a good way to familiarize yourself with the bank's services, and you get to know the pros and cons in each of them. *3)* _Avoid withdrawing money by using ATM's that are located in stablishments like pharmacies, convenience stores, restaurants, etc._ (to avoid your cards of being cloned). Instead, always choose to withdraw money _directly from the ATM's that are located within bank's facilities_ (but even there, take around 5-10 seconds to inspect that there isn't any suspicious hardware strategically placed around the ATM, you should do that in any country anyways); also, to increase your safety even more, give preference to withdraw money from bank's ATM's that are located within _malls (the biggest the mall, the better)_ or even airports.
Thank you Serg great video, much needed. As someone who has visited Mexico multiple times and would love to live there, I have grown tired of trying to defend my decision. It bothers me that people in the US have such a negative view of this beautiful country. Most have never even visited.
If you're moving to an area of the country that's dealing with this issue then you'll need to ask locals for advice, if you're moving to an area of the country that's not dealing with it, you'll just hear about it on the news just like you might in the US.
@@michaeljimenez9203 Hey there I can give you a little help I live in Texas and Aguascalientes I’m a teacher so during my 3 months off I go to Mexico every year as I have a home there too as I go back to my country to visit my grandparents and cousins and aunts and uncles who are all in Mexico and parents and my grandparents have lived in Aguascalientes for like over 50 years and it’s super relax and calm. You don’t really see no crime and cartel problems there or crimes of course I can only speak in the area where me and my family live but from what I see when I live there during the summer and what my family says Aguascalientes is super calm not saying you won’t hear or see any crimes but out of all the states in Mexico it’s pretty decent and calm when it comes to cartels and crimes. Any questions just leave one I will try to respond to it. Oh and yea I’m in Mexico now lay last week before I have to leave my country to go back and work 😭
Heyy :) can you give recommendations for Zacatecas? Want to go visit my boyfriend...we will be in the Main citiy zacatecas..and fresnillo...i am a bit concerned because i am a total gringo...blond...blue eyes...dont want to get kidnapped 😅
Yes, I moved out thee for five years, I had issues with scams and police will not enforce the laws. If, you want to live in fear and no rights.. well, enjoy. Mexicano Beverly Hills Downey California , I speak spanish with family and friends and work, English only. 😂😂😂
Cartels don’t mess with no one unless your involved in a criminal activity that catches their attention it’s exactly the gangs in the USA 🇺🇸 but just 100% more deadly
Just use the ATM's as needed. When the ATM asks if you accept their conditions don't accept it, you will still get your cash! It's a trick to give you an outrageous conversion rate. Get a Charles Schwab or similar debit card that doesn't charge exchange rate and ATM fees. Buena suerte!
Great thanks for sharing I lived in the USA For 20 years But now living in Mexico I feel 100% more safe here One the rason is because Mexicans are not allow to carry or buy guns in Wal-Mart 😂
@@chrisz2176Ive lived and traveled in many safe, medium and not so safe countries....I can tell you a real safe country is somewhere like Japan or Taiwan where young single women can walk in a dark alley at 2am and never have to think to look behind them when they hear footsteps...cause its THAT safe... No one will rape or kidnap them or harass them or be disrespectful. Ive gone on bike rides along the river in Taipei at midnight to 3am and you can see single teenagers out there hanging out for a bike ride by themselves, boys or girls, young ladies and there is no fear in the world of any danger....Thats what I call safer than US... US is a medium safe country. People exaggerating how extremely safe Mexico is are kidding themselves,
There are mass shootings in Mexico all the time from Cartels and Mexican Military or Cartels vs Each other. Its willfully ignorant to ignore the fact these and kidnappings exist and Femicide and Human Trafficking and say you feel safer there when statistical reality shows clearly the exact opposite. Im not saying the US is that safe but to hear idiots say how much safer Mexico is extremely ignorant and perhaps you're not a street wise person.
The biggest difference between Mexico and the US is you can't carry a gun in Mexico legally, so traveling in the US even to higher crime areas is different when you can defend yourself, also most dangerous places in the US don't have crime in the streets using high powered rifles. Oh and whatever you do don't try offering money to the cops in the US.
Great video Thanks for sharing.. New subscriber.. N yes lietometv is off 😆 N no purple unicorn here We are learning everyday and every area in Mexico is different absolutely just like anywhere in the world 🌎 Cheers 🍻 2 Gringos On The Gulf J&D
People venturing there have heard, needlessly said, …………….heard of many a story that Americans were robbed or killed or both? But you have many people optimistically believing: “This won’t happen to me”. then it does happen to them, and they act incredulous, as if to say: “I thought I was special. And that nothing would ever happen to me because I’m nice” I guess it’s fair to say that people of this mindset believe others were less than nice, less than perfect, less than themselves, perhaps?
It's about odds ratios. If one or two people are kidnapped or killed or what not - out of 45 million, which is half the chance of dying in a (commercial airline) plane crash (29 million), your odds of this kind of violence are ridiculously low. Dying from a car crash is one in 101. Statistics are important when assessing the safety of anything - simple ibuprofen can kill some people randomly. Any Rx is the same way - but if you don't appreciate odds ratios, well, you won't take anything. Armed with this knowledge, you can choose to live your life inside your home without doing anything, or take a step outside and experience life to its fullest, accepting some risks, which are everywhere.
Good balanced view of the safety issue. Few American's realize that Anchorage, AK actually has the highest homicide rate in the US - much higher than Mexico City - yet no one ever reconsiders travel to Anchorage. I just looked at the US government Travel warnings and see that Spain is in the "Reconsider Travel' category for due to terrorism and civil unrest - yet I never hear any Americans express concerns about traveling there. Mass Media bias has created an unfair negative perception of safety in Mexico. I have traveled all over Mexico for the past 35 years and never had any issues and had the best experiences of my lifetime there. As Serg states, its about knowing where you are going in any city in the world and avoiding being the wrong place at the wrong time.
Loved your video man. Very well-worded. I don’t think you mentioed anything about crimes that aren’t reported? I have a friend who’s a a local and he always brings it up.
We are looking to moving to Mexico with in a year or so., and was wondering do you have a video that talks about what yo can bring and what you would need to move to Mexico… Like what type of paperwork we would need the does and don’t and is there any based USA job you can do from Mexico? By the way video what amazing
I have friends that have lived there for around five years and have visited them. It's a safe and great place to visit or live. I love living in Ensenada but when I can no longer surf I may move there. I met some great locals while there along with a few beautiful and friendly women.... Oh, I forgot to mention it is a beautiful colorful city with incredibly tasty fresh food. Buena suerte!
It's very safe and one of the expensive places to live in Mexico. Just like anywhere, don't flash your cash and leave the Rolex at home. The biggest fear is the professional pick pockets, they are really good at their job.
Hi Serg and Tana, we are planning on a trip to Mexico City and Taxco in December. In the last few days, we started getting a little unsure about going to Taxco from Mexico City by bus. What do you think? We believe it's safe in Mexico City and Taxco but are a little concerned about travelling through the state of Guerrero. What's your opinion about that? Thank you very much. By the way, we both do speak Spanish pretty well.
Hi! Taxco is at the north end of Guerrero, you'll hardly travel through the state at all and you definitely won't be traveling through the conflict zones of Taxco. I say go for it!
Hi Serg, I'm flying to Mexico City and then getting a coach to Puebla to stay with friends in July. Is your advice largely the same as when you made this video? I felt much better after seeing it, but was a while ago. Thanks in advance.
Thank you. My wife and I fell in love with San Miguel de Allende, even began looking at properties, but we keep hearing about the explosion of cartel homicides of late. It’s kind of bumming me out. What are you thoughts about SMDA and surrounding areas including Guanajuato?
Buenas Sergio, como les va, we miss Tana. 🤷🏻♂️I understand you live in Colonia Roma considered one of the safest in CDMX, along with other neighborhoods like Coyoacan and Condesa, que no?✌️how do you compare these safer Colonias to anywhere in the US? Saludos 😀
They certainly won't mess with u if u don't mess with them. I witnessed some cartel guys digging what Im guessing was a grave out in the desert a couple weeks ago. Classy dressed guy in nice pickup was yelling at 2 younger guys to dig faster. Small dump truck rolled in. They didnt know i was hiking out there, I greeted them as I walked past, the classy guy greeted me back, then started yelling at the younger guys again. Then the dump truck rolled in as i walked out. Im a 5 foot white lady. Im not in the hole. Its fine. Just dont fk with people. I will not be telling you a specific area, but I can tell you it was Baja Cali.
![Is Mexico Safe?: How to Stay Safe in Mexico [Travel Safety Tips]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/76ZLE4Njzy0/mqdefault.jpg)
![Is Mexico Safe?: How to Stay Safe in Mexico [Travel Safety Tips]](/img/tr.png)
The way I always describe it is as a tourist, your chances of running into trouble are extremely rare if you take normal precautions like you would anywhere else in the world. But in very urban areas you are definitely at risk of pick-pockets and have to watch out for that (again common sense) and if you don't speak Spanish, you will be more easily taken advantage of and maybe overcharged. In my experience, having made the effort to learn Spanish and become like the locals, I've never had a single scary experience living in Mexico or traveling within it, but I think speaking the language is a huge help!
Eso es todo🇲🇽👍
Accurate video. Extra advice for future visitors: It's helpful to avoid dressing as a stereotypical tourist, instead observe and try to blend with the locals as much as possible; avoid putting yourself in vulnerable situations like getting very drunk, especially if you're alone (that goes for both women and men); even when you're using UBER or apps alike, don't ever low your _situational awareness_ (applies for *_a-n-y-_*_ country_ of the world, from Mexico to the USA, etc.)! And finally, be respectful and use common sense, don't be neither paranoid nor naïve, but do be _aware_ of your surroundings.
Enjoy your stay!
My husband and I are from California and planning a trip to Mexico City for a few days. Please advise us on the best and safest places to stay. Should we take an Uber/Didi over taxis? Any advice to keep us safe is greatly appreciated! Too bad we can't meet up with you! Thank you so much! Thanks for the video, too!
This is a great conversation you're having, and much needed. One real fact, is that post pandemic, 49% of Mexico is living below the poverty line. The cities that you mentioned in the US that have extreme problems with crime, also have issues with poverty, access to good paying jobs, affordable healthcare. Here in Jalisco, job creation is helping create a robust middle class that is curbing some of the crimes of opportunity that come with desperate living situations. With that said, I've also encountered many grifters in Mexico, with means, targeting ex-pat communities, looking for vulnerabilities. Be aware of your surroundings, do additional fact checking/research when relocating to an area and include people from many different facets of life in your circle of friends. This should help with situational awareness in a new country. Can't wait to check out more of your content! ~Salud
Thanks for your comments. I’m really interested and fell in love with in San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato, but keep hearing about an explosion of cartel homicides. It’s bumming me out. What are your thoughts?
@@rickquintero8577 Hola Rick! Thanks for reaching out. The following thoughts are of a personal nature and should be researched more on your own time. With that said, Mexico is currently experiencing some growing pains in terms of economic growth, political ideology and overall security of each individual state. In my opinion, it would be best to wait out the next 2 years of the current administration, governed by the Morena party and lead by President Lopez Obrador. Why? Because there are serious issues being debated currently in regards to immigration policy...more specifically, who Mexico would like to see stay and who they would like to see go. It is very unclear for those of us living here, whether the climate/attitude towards foreigners will change drastically, with the rise of xenophobic rhetoric being echoed by the current administration. The next presidential election should set the tone for the next 6 years regarding this matter. I, myself, have chosen to stay here indefinitely, but should the climate change to something more hostile and uninclusive of foreign investment and migration, it may be time for even me to move on. All in all, my advice to you is to read up more about local issues through english news sites, join facebook groups with similar interests, join the discussion where ever possible and you should find your answer. Best wishes...Salud!
@@LoadingNewSIM thank you, kind of reminds me what people were saying when Donald was Pres over here. I should get more informed on politics in Mexico. My wife got her green card, and I got my dual citizenship and INE card, but mostly we are in the SF Bay Area.
@@rickquintero8577 Good observation! Both Trump and Obrador Lopez had very similar nationalist platforms. Both friends with Putin and both left each other alone, all in all ; ) ...I didnt mean to discourage you, btw. I made the move from SF around 2016 and have no regrets. I did do quite a bit of research before hand and was flying down once a month for about 6 months to explore different areas...when i still had free time. Covid changed the mindset down here for a bit, but a sense of normalcy is returning. Feel free to reach out anytime with additional inquiries. Best wishes to you and your partner on your future move!
Hello Serg, I saw your video on safety in Mexico and really liked it. I want to ask for your thoughts or advice. I have a trip planned to the Copper Canyon on January 15 and I’m worried now about the recent violence that there has been in Sinaloa. the people there I’m staying with in Airbnb's are reassuring me that things will be back to normal, but I’m still worried. I made the same trip 15 years ago so I know where I’m going and what to expect. I plan to fly to Los mochis then take the El Chepe to several locations in the Copper Canyon and stay a couple days each. I'll end up staying in Los Mochis a total of 3 days. I wasn’t worried at all until this happened last week, but I guess I’m looking for some kind of advice in case I’m missing something and not considering everything I should be. thanks for your video and do you have any thoughts on this? Dan Svrchek
Been Mexico City 5x. Does got picket pocket issues target tourists especially in Condessa, Roma’s Norte, reforms, Polanco, and downtown.
Since those areas attracted foreigners. Don’t leave your bags unattended on tables or hang on chair in cafe/ restaurants. Wear bags on crossbody and on your lap when eating. Also, hold ur bag handles when walk around so can’t be grab by theft. Don’t leave your iPhone on tables. Front or back pockets. Put inside jacket’s pocket or zip pocket front. Alway, put hand on pocket check still there. Don’t use large peso, change smaller 20 -50 Pesos when pay on street to avoid short change.
Also, locals don’t wear flip flop or shorts. Avoid tank top or expose cleavage, get harassment (females).CDMX dress more semi formal vs. beach town.
I’m Mexican and this is accurate
Yes it is
Crime rates don’t hold water in developing countries. A lot of crimes don’t get reported or brushed off due to corruption or just not recorded..
How safe is Morelia? I’m very interested in seeing this beautiful city and, if possible, seeing Monarcas and the butterfly migration
Well said!
Thank you!
@@sergtana No problem!
Im driving from monterrey to busamante would it be safe to drive alone
Don't drive at night not because of crime but because of farm animals and wildlife on the roads. No street lights and all of a sudden you see a cow in the road and you're going sixty.
En el tema de seguridad u otros rubro sociales importantes , la cdmx, es la que mayores avances ha tenido . (Plenamente documentado)
En el tema exclusivo de la seguridad pública ,como nativo de la cdmx ,puedo decir tajante ,que no ha habido un momento tan seguro como el que hoy vive la ciudad . Ya para caminar de madrugada , por av. Reforma, a la altura del barrio de Tepito , y que no te pase nada , es porque algo muy importante ocurrió . Y no es un juego , estoy hablando de un area de la ciudad ,en la que ocurrían (según datos oficiales)hasta siete homicidios diarios . De robos y asaltos ultra violentos ; ya te imaginaras la situación tan dramática . . Eran los años cuando te asaltaban con lujo de violencia en plena plancha del zócalo . Hoy ,eso es imposible.
Is driving through the country pretty easy as well? Just like the U.S?
I know many people who have done so (including my sister). In terms of safety, it's a good idea to cross the border in the morning and drive in daylight. Also, it's always good to know where you're driving through because there certainly are dangerous areas. However, definitely doable and you get to explore some of the most beautiful places in the country this way
@@sergtana great. Thanks for the info. Love the channel. Been watching for about 2 yrs 😎
See my comment about driving at night. Animals on the roads.
I’ve been to Acapulco and it’s safe
Is it safe in North Korea though?
Which city is good for kids ?
What are the safe neighborhoods of Mexico City please?
Where the best places to live
It's huge country and depends on what your preferences are. I still surf so I love living in Ensenada. The weather is perfect year round, everybody I've met is friendly and helpful, my dollar goes a really long way and I'm close to my old home and friends in Southern California. Although I have to admit when I go back to visit friends I can't wait to get back here. If you want a stress free high quality of life, don't wait the time will never be just right. Buena suerte!
Honestly felt safer in Mexico City than most US cities lots of Fake News about Mexico City its beautiful and green as well.
I think how walkable and how much people are out makes it feel safer!
@@sergtana do you all still live in Mexico City?
You must not be very aware of your surroundings or priveledged enough to stay in the safest parts of Mexico unlike the locals. How safe you think you feel has zero correlation to how realistically and statistically safe a place is. Things can look fine anywhere until people die. Its better to be balanced and realistic like the UA-cam poster instead of having extreme views that are not accurate. Look at the number of you tubers who have been kidnapped or nearly kidnaaped for human trafficking in Mexico and hear their stories it'll open your eyes. Listen to OG Shadow reporting from Mexico
@@aaap3875 I know OG Shadow and that's why I stay in the best and safest parts of Mexico I am under no illusions by any means.
@@aaap3875 I never heard of UA-camrs being kidnapped. Like who? The ones I watch just say how wonderful Mexico is
Why so many Mexicans in LA if Mexico so great? Ijs
I guess everyone's experience is different. There are also an estimate 1 million Americans living in Mexico so it's really about what place works best for you:)
because the salaries are like 8 times more in the USA for the same job
one word cartels im out
No a la gentrificacion de México.
I agree with everything you said. I'm here in Mexico this week as a solo traveler and Thank God, I have not experienced any trouble. everyone is so nice and so patient with my "No Hablo Espanol."...lol. I even left my laptop at a café and security kept it safe for me. Wonderful country & wonderful people. There is safety issues in every part of the world. Just be cautious.
I think I did loot of dug in Mexico 🇲🇽.
Good to hear that you’re safe, are you traveling or living there now?
@@rickquintero8577 I'm leaving at the end of this month. Heading to Cuba or Costa Rica....I loved loved my stay in MX but I can't stay any longer w/my visa
@@Vasper79 oh I see, well those are two very good options. My friend from Frankfurt Germany just bought an apartment in Havana and loves Cuba, I’ve never been there. I’ve been to Costa Rica, it’s beautiful!
Thank you for this. It definitely is a slap in the face to the folks who live in Mexico City when travel vloggers make it seem like the safest place. Like you said some folks don’t have the option to choose where they live. I have family in el DF and I hear everything that they go through from robberies, assaults and cops asking them for mordidas.
I really enjoy these Serge videos tackling the issues. They're always well-thought-out and well delivered.
Can you talk about corrupt police officers and what to do when pulled over? Thank you. Really enjoy your videos
pay them
@@MarkJamesGolf I'll say no tengo dinero and go to jail. I ain't paying shIt!
Talk to them, let them know what you did wrong, most of them are just curious to see who you are and how you behave to them, if you nice, they treat you nice and probable will let you got without problems (no bribe), but if they feel you rude or scary about the situation, don't to the bribe first if he doesn't ask or makes a signal about it, if the officer offers you the only solution is to pay something to them, then proceed, there's nothing you can do about.
Yes, talking with the police explaining what you are going to do and acting chill is important. It happens to locals, too. Everyone tries to urn a bit. So just be aware you are not paying wayyyy more then the locals but other than that you sometimes have to pay. I find if you are enthousiast about your travels they often are happy with an interesting chat with you. I often tell that I have people waiting for me and know me there.
Great video! Thank you! I'm from Los Angeles and felt way safer in Mexico City in the nicer parts (Condesa, Polanco) - I live in a similar area in LA but don't walk around at night. I felt OK in Condesa, but it's true - you always have to be aware of your stuff, your surroundings, how populated areas are - no matter where you are! I think people from big cities get that automatically. I've traveled the world multiple times in hugely pick-pocketed places and have been just fine.
Serg is very right about everything here, and yet I would like to add: Watch out for the non violent crime! Very recently, bank frauds are becoming common in Mexico. Some people that work in the banks know which accounts have a lot of money, and they have personal data, so they call the account owner and simulate that it's all a real bank call. They tell you about some fake problem, ask for card numbers and if you believe it, your account is screwed. If this happens to you, nobody will help you. Mexico has tricksters for everything, from stealing a purse, to stealing cars and draining millionaire bank accounts in the blink of an eye. Trust nobody, avoid dangerous areas and stay safe!
wow thank you for this comment! I was just going to open a bank account in Mexico. I think only keeping a small amount in it is the way to go.
@@organic-artistic If you open the account, do not keep more than thirty thousand pesos in it. If you need more, open other accounts at various banks. If they call you, never listen to them, just say that you will go to the bank in person and end the call. If in the bank, they ask for your phone so they can install some app in it, leave. I am happy to help you!
Yes! We use our US credit card for 90% of purchases and have a Mexican account that we use basically only to withdraw cash if we need it. We transfer funds using wise which has pretty good rates. So our Mexican bank account never has more than a like 500 dollars max.
Just be sure that if you use a US bank account that there's no foreign transaction fees and that they use the market exchange rate and not a fixed rate that they establish. This is also good if you are victim of some kind of scam, you deal with the customer service of your own bank which will be better probably.
@@organic-artistic I live in Mexico, and I can give you a few extra tips: *1)* _Avoid opening bank accounts in small banks,_ the smaller the bank the higher the chances of things going south. If you need to open an account, then make your research and choose a major and reputable bank. *2)* _Gradually_ start openning accounts in multiple banks. It's wise to have multiple accounts (2-3), not only because that diversify your investments but also because that's a good way to familiarize yourself with the bank's services, and you get to know the pros and cons in each of them. *3)* _Avoid withdrawing money by using ATM's that are located in stablishments like pharmacies, convenience stores, restaurants, etc._ (to avoid your cards of being cloned). Instead, always choose to withdraw money _directly from the ATM's that are located within bank's facilities_ (but even there, take around 5-10 seconds to inspect that there isn't any suspicious hardware strategically placed around the ATM, you should do that in any country anyways); also, to increase your safety even more, give preference to withdraw money from bank's ATM's that are located within _malls (the biggest the mall, the better)_ or even airports.
Because of that, I was checking all other Latin-american countries, but mostly seem to be the same. So unfortunate.
Thank you Serg great video, much needed. As someone who has visited Mexico multiple times and would love to live there, I have grown tired of trying to defend my decision. It bothers me that people in the US have such a negative view of this beautiful country. Most have never even visited.
Im planning to move to Mexico next month any advice? I’m just a bit iffy for narcos just as a backend thought that scares me a bit
If you're moving to an area of the country that's dealing with this issue then you'll need to ask locals for advice, if you're moving to an area of the country that's not dealing with it, you'll just hear about it on the news just like you might in the US.
@@sergtana thanks I’m going to águas calientes I’ve done a lot of research and a local told us it’s very calm very safe
Yeah Aguascalientes doesn't have these issues. No worries!
@@michaeljimenez9203 Hey there I can give you a little help I live in Texas and Aguascalientes I’m a teacher so during my 3 months off I go to Mexico every year as I have a home there too as I go back to my country to visit my grandparents and cousins and aunts and uncles who are all in Mexico and parents and my grandparents have lived in Aguascalientes for like over 50 years and it’s super relax and calm. You don’t really see no crime and cartel problems there or crimes of course I can only speak in the area where me and my family live but from what I see when I live there during the summer and what my family says Aguascalientes is super calm not saying you won’t hear or see any crimes but out of all the states in Mexico it’s pretty decent and calm when it comes to cartels and crimes. Any questions just leave one I will try to respond to it. Oh and yea I’m in Mexico now lay last week before I have to leave my country to go back and work 😭
Heyy :) can you give recommendations for Zacatecas? Want to go visit my boyfriend...we will be in the Main citiy zacatecas..and fresnillo...i am a bit concerned because i am a total gringo...blond...blue eyes...dont want to get kidnapped 😅
Yes, I moved out thee for five years, I had issues with scams and police will not enforce the laws. If, you want to live in fear and no rights.. well, enjoy. Mexicano Beverly Hills Downey California , I speak spanish with family and friends and work, English only. 😂😂😂
Not sure if he mentioned this yet but I pretty sure Mexico is one of the 3 country's that constitutionly amended carrying firearms
Cartels don’t mess with no one unless your involved in a criminal activity that catches their attention it’s exactly the gangs in the USA 🇺🇸 but just 100% more deadly
Thank you for this video. People are dissuading me from going. This puts my mind at ease. I'll be sharing it.
How much money do I need to take with me if I am planning to live in Mexico City for 6 months? Lets say Condesa or Roma?
We have a video where we discuss in detail our cost of living in Roma. Check that out to get the best idea!
@@sergtana hay mucho vídeos, podrías ser más explícito, para alguien que te pregunto, sorry 😆
Just use the ATM's as needed. When the ATM asks if you accept their conditions don't accept it, you will still get your cash! It's a trick to give you an outrageous conversion rate. Get a Charles Schwab or similar debit card that doesn't charge exchange rate and ATM fees. Buena suerte!
Great thanks for sharing
I lived in the USA
For 20 years
But now living in Mexico
I feel 100% more safe here
One the rason is because
Mexicans are not allow to carry or buy guns in Wal-Mart 😂
😂😂 Facts man that’s so true!!!
And no mass school shootings
@@chrisz2176Ive lived and traveled in many safe, medium and not so safe countries....I can tell you a real safe country is somewhere like Japan or Taiwan where young single women can walk in a dark alley at 2am and never have to think to look behind them when they hear footsteps...cause its THAT safe... No one will rape or kidnap them or harass them or be disrespectful. Ive gone on bike rides along the river in Taipei at midnight to 3am and you can see single teenagers out there hanging out for a bike ride by themselves, boys or girls, young ladies and there is no fear in the world of any danger....Thats what I call safer than US... US is a medium safe country. People exaggerating how extremely safe Mexico is are kidding themselves,
There are mass shootings in Mexico all the time from Cartels and Mexican Military or Cartels vs Each other. Its willfully ignorant to ignore the fact these and kidnappings exist and Femicide and Human Trafficking and say you feel safer there when statistical reality shows clearly the exact opposite. Im not saying the US is that safe but to hear idiots say how much safer Mexico is extremely ignorant and perhaps you're not a street wise person.
Feel safe where the government and police are run by the cartel? The cartel will chop your ⚽️ 🏀 off and feed it to you. Straight up savages.
As someone who just arrived in Mexico City, thank you!
Drugs and cartels tourist companies will never say its not safe lol
Mexico city safer than New York and Chicago 🇺🇲😁
Can anyone give or recommend names of the bigger safer banks in Mexico and also international banks? Thank you.
Tell me about San Miguel de Allede please.
The biggest difference between Mexico and the US is you can't carry a gun in Mexico legally, so traveling in the US even to higher crime areas is different when you can defend yourself, also most dangerous places in the US don't have crime in the streets using high powered rifles. Oh and whatever you do don't try offering money to the cops in the US.
Yo amo Mexico 🇲🇽 ❤️
Yo también 🖤
@@sergtana muy bien
The us is up there too. Come onnnnn
Great video Thanks for sharing.. New subscriber..
N yes lietometv is off 😆
N no purple unicorn here
We are learning everyday and every area in Mexico is different absolutely just like anywhere in the world 🌎
Cheers 🍻
2 Gringos On The Gulf J&D
People venturing there have heard, needlessly said, …………….heard of many a story that Americans were robbed or killed or both? But you have many people optimistically believing: “This won’t happen to me”. then it does happen to them, and they act incredulous, as if to say: “I thought I was special. And that nothing would ever happen to me because I’m nice”
I guess it’s fair to say that people of this mindset believe others were less than nice, less than perfect, less than themselves, perhaps?
Interesting perspective!
It's about odds ratios. If one or two people are kidnapped or killed or what not - out of 45 million, which is half the chance of dying in a (commercial airline) plane crash (29 million), your odds of this kind of violence are ridiculously low. Dying from a car crash is one in 101. Statistics are important when assessing the safety of anything - simple ibuprofen can kill some people randomly. Any Rx is the same way - but if you don't appreciate odds ratios, well, you won't take anything. Armed with this knowledge, you can choose to live your life inside your home without doing anything, or take a step outside and experience life to its fullest, accepting some risks, which are everywhere.
Good balanced view of the safety issue. Few American's realize that Anchorage, AK actually has the highest homicide rate in the US - much higher than Mexico City - yet no one ever reconsiders travel to Anchorage. I just looked at the US government Travel warnings and see that Spain is in the "Reconsider Travel' category for due to terrorism and civil unrest - yet I never hear any Americans express concerns about traveling there. Mass Media bias has created an unfair negative perception of safety in Mexico. I have traveled all over Mexico for the past 35 years and never had any issues and had the best experiences of my lifetime there. As Serg states, its about knowing where you are going in any city in the world and avoiding being the wrong place at the wrong time.
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Loved your video man. Very well-worded. I don’t think you mentioed anything about crimes that aren’t reported? I have a friend who’s a a local and he always brings it up.
We are looking to moving to Mexico with in a year or so., and was wondering do you have a video that talks about what yo can bring and what you would need to move to Mexico… Like what type of paperwork we would need the does and don’t and is there any based USA job you can do from Mexico? By the way video what amazing
Has anyone taken a bus from Tijuana Central Mx to Zihuatanejo Mexico? If so is it dangerous to go on bus?
What about if you are from a known rich family or a just famous for example? Would this still apply ?
If I stay in a 5 star hotel in Mexico city would that be safe to walk around that area ?
Don't travel to Chicago or buffalo New York 🇺🇲😁
How safe is Oaxaca city??
Quite safe! It's a good place to live:)
@@sergtana is tabasco?
I have friends that have lived there for around five years and have visited them. It's a safe and great place to visit or live. I love living in Ensenada but when I can no longer surf I may move there. I met some great locals while there along with a few beautiful and friendly women.... Oh, I forgot to mention it is a beautiful colorful city with incredibly tasty fresh food. Buena suerte!
Thanks, negative views will give doubt
Hows the governments treatment of women in mexico
Hi! Was wondering your thoughts on the safety in Monterrey. Thank you so much in advance…
The Found Nation
Hello
Yes
The main thing im afraid is the cartel
Go to buffalo New York 🇺🇲 or Chicago 🇺🇲😁👍 is perfect 👌
Very informative, thank you!
Okay does anyone know if MONTERREY is safe?
It's very safe and one of the expensive places to live in Mexico. Just like anywhere, don't flash your cash and leave the Rolex at home. The biggest fear is the professional pick pockets, they are really good at their job.
Hi Serg and Tana, we are planning on a trip to Mexico City and Taxco in December. In the last few days, we started getting a little unsure about going to Taxco from Mexico City by bus. What do you think? We believe it's safe in Mexico City and Taxco but are a little concerned about travelling through the state of Guerrero. What's your opinion about that? Thank you very much. By the way, we both do speak Spanish pretty well.
Hi! Taxco is at the north end of Guerrero, you'll hardly travel through the state at all and you definitely won't be traveling through the conflict zones of Taxco. I say go for it!
@@sergtana thank you so much! Now, we're happy! 👍
Hi Serg, I'm flying to Mexico City and then getting a coach to Puebla to stay with friends in July. Is your advice largely the same as when you made this video? I felt much better after seeing it, but was a while ago. Thanks in advance.
love the tips and advice. thank you!
Is jalisco safe?
thank you....
How is Monterrey
Monterrey is like buffalo New York 🇺🇲 and Chicago
Culiacán??
Keep driving right through....
@@davidsebastianelli1326 es bad?
Thank you. My wife and I fell in love with San Miguel de Allende, even began looking at properties, but we keep hearing about the explosion of cartel homicides of late.
It’s kind of bumming me out. What are you thoughts about SMDA and surrounding areas including Guanajuato?
Buenas Sergio, como les va, we miss Tana. 🤷🏻♂️I understand you live in Colonia Roma considered one of the safest in CDMX, along with other neighborhoods like Coyoacan and Condesa, que no?✌️how do you compare these safer Colonias to anywhere in the US?
Saludos 😀
Hi Serg!
Which cities or towns would you recommend solo female travelers to travel to if it's their first time to Mexico?
It’s safer in North Korea
@Avella Thanks!
@@Greatpacificnorthwesterner cartel will protect you
They certainly won't mess with u if u don't mess with them. I witnessed some cartel guys digging what Im guessing was a grave out in the desert a couple weeks ago. Classy dressed guy in nice pickup was yelling at 2 younger guys to dig faster. Small dump truck rolled in. They didnt know i was hiking out there, I greeted them as I walked past, the classy guy greeted me back, then started yelling at the younger guys again. Then the dump truck rolled in as i walked out. Im a 5 foot white lady. Im not in the hole. Its fine. Just dont fk with people.
I will not be telling you a specific area, but I can tell you it was Baja Cali.