HARJAY wrote: I think there are more safe places in the world to spend your hard earned income but to ea. their own.
From the Cdn. consular website : FYI Theft
Petty theft
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in Mexico.
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times, even in areas normally considered safe
- Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
- Avoid showing signs of affluence, such as flashy jewelry
- Carry only small amounts of money
- Be cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs
Violent theft
Armed robbery occurs. Foreigners have been targets of robberies that sometimes involve assault.
Robbers will follow a victim after they exchange or withdraw money at airports, currency exchange bureaus (casas de cambio) or ATMs.
- Stay in hotels and resorts with good security
- If you are threatened by robbers, stay calm and don’t resist
- Avoid withdrawing or exchanging money in public areas of the airport
Home break-ins
Tourists staying in rental homes have been the victims of break-ins and burglaries. Whether you are staying in private or commercial accommodations, make sure you lock windows and doors securely at night and when you are away.
Assault
Canadians travellers have been physically and sexually assaulted. In some cases, hotel employees, taxi drivers and security personnel at popular tourist destinations were involved.
- Avoid walking after dark, especially alone
- Avoid isolated or deserted areas
- Stay in hotels and resorts with good security
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
In cases of sexual assault, police authorities will order a medical examination.
Women’s safety
Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.
Some incidents of assault, rape and sexual aggression against Canadian women have occurred, including at beach resorts and on public buses.
- Exercise caution when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances
- Be wary of rides or other invitations
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
Safe-travel guide for women
Spiked food and drinks
Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.
Unregulated alcohol
Some bars, restaurants and resorts have served counterfeit alcohol. Some travellers have reported getting sick or blacking out after drinking alcohol.
- Be cautious if you choose to drink alcohol
- Seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick
Alcohol, drugs and travel
Balconies
Height standards for balcony railings in Mexico can be considerably lower than those in Canada. Falls have resulted in deaths and injuries.
- Exercise caution when standing close to balcony railings
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
Fraud
Credit card and ATM fraud occurs in Mexico. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:
- pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
- use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
- avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
- cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
- check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements
More about overseas fraud
Scams
Legitimate police officers have extorted money from tourists or arrested tourists for minor offences or traffic violations. Travellers driving rental cars have been targeted.
If this occurs:
- don’t hand over your money or your passport
- ask for the officer’s name, badge and patrol car number
- ask for a copy of the written fine, which is payable at a later date