What to watch out for when traveling to Cozumel, Mexico….

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Whenever one plans a trip, safety is always a concern. Within areas of Mexico, especially, reports leadtourists to believe that Mexico is an unsafe place to visit, and that there is considerable risk associated with traveling to any area of the country. Cozumel, however, is a great exception. Compared to other areas of Mexico – in fact, compared to other areas of the world – Cozumel is a safe location that is great for both long and short term visits. When traveling in Cozumel, don’t spend all of your time worrying about safety. Keep in mind that the crime rate here is lower than in most large cities around the world, and the likelihood of violent crime is low. A tourist police force patrols the island, and its priority is to maintain safe streets to attract visitors.

However, there are a few things you should be cautious of.:

If you travel with children, make sure to watch them all the times. Always remember to go on the deepend by two’s and remember to let your travel companion know where you are going. There are no lifeguards available on the beach.

Women, particularly those traveling alone, are advised to be extra cautious when visiting Cozumel. While the local people are generally friendly and non-threatening, there have been several instances of men preying on female tourists. Be cautious when drinking, try not to walk alone at night in deserted back streets and never go places alone with someone you don’t know.

I read somewhere that when you rent a jeep to tour the island you have to fill the vehicle before returning it. The gas attendants will crowd around the front of the gas pump so that you can’t see the amount. You may wind up paying $60 for $10 worth of gas.  Not sure how true this is but make sure you look to see that the gas starts at zero. Or you may have no choice but to pay up.

Take the appropriate gear. Do not participate in any water or recreational sports for which you are not qualified or have not been trained. According to the Department of State, “Several drowning and near-drowning incidents have been reported on the east coast of Cozumel, particularly in the Playa San Martin-Chen Rio area.” To avoid similar injuries or accidents, research beach locations in Cozumel to determine if the waters are choppy. Look to see if the area is secluded. Also, when renting boats, motorcycles or mopeds, be sure that you are licensed and have the appropriate gear to operate these vehicles. According to the Department of State, “Serious moped accidents have risen in Cozumel.” In most cases, injuries were the result of an unlicensed operator or an operator who refused or was not given a helmet when the vehicle was rented.

Purse snatchings and robberies do happen, of course, and travelers should be just as cautious as they would be at home. Drunken tourists stumbling around late at night are tempting targets.

So to wrap up, even though you have your minor petty crimes/scams to look out for, Cozumel is rated one of the safest destinations you can travel to.  Just be aware of your surroundings and you should have a fabulous time…

You can obtain up-to-date information on safety and security in Cozumel, Mexico by calling (888) 407-4747. Travelers outside the U.S. should call (202) 501-4444.

Read more at Trails.com: Safety Tips for Traveling to Cozumel, Mexico | Trails.com http://www.trails.com/list_9388_safety-tips-traveling-cozumel-mexico.html#ixzz2F3fK9aco

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