Is Mexico a No Go?

     Many people have a fear of vacationing in Mexico.  It is my goal to convince skeptical travelers of the reasons they SHOULD visit Mexico!  There are certain areas that I highly recommend for a very fun and relaxing vacation.  In light of the recent media blasts of “tainted alcohol” and State Department warnings for the safety of visiting Mexico I felt compelled to visit there in order to be able to continue recommending it to clients.  I came back with a renewed love of the Yucatan Peninsula and all it has to offer those searching for the perfect all-inclusive experience.

     There are many choices of all-inclusive resorts along the peninsula.  Most resorts offer a fabulous beachfront location with beautiful white sand and comfy lounge chairs or the newest trend of Balinese beds just waiting for you to dive into.  Each resort has its own vibe and type of experience.  You can choose between resorts that provide a very quiet and calm experience for total relaxation and pampering or “happening” properties that keep the entertainment flowing with pool parties and swim-up bars.   There are total family entertainment properties that would rival, if not surpass, Atlantis in Nassau.  The most recently added overwater bungalows have become a real hit because they are a fraction of the cost of other properties of comparison around the world.  
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     The rule still stands that in most cases you “get what you pay for” and there are certainly properties that are more recommended than others (and some that are not recommended at all.)  You should be careful not to fall prey to the descriptions and pictures shown on the internet and be sure to ask someone that has actually been to the property before booking it.  Certain travel advisor sites can occasionally be misleading because the properties beg people to give them a good review.  This area has some very luxurious resorts.  Do your research and find just what you are looking for.
 
     With all due respect for people who have experienced problems it is only fair to point out the fact that most tourists vacation there with no problems at all.  Let’s face it… we must all be mindful at all times of our surroundings and stay away from questionable areas.  When the state department issued the latest warning they pointed out the fact that US citizens are not being targeted in Mexico.  One thing to consider is that every one of the nicer resorts are located behind at least one guard gate that no one can enter without proper identification.
These are my personal recommendations when visiting Mexico for the safest possible experience. 

1. Book your trip with a reputable and knowledgeable source.
2. Book your trip as a package that includes pre-arranged transfers, not a rental car.  
3. Stay on your property and book the excursions from your property.
4. Ask for a certain bar brand in drink orders.
5. Eat in the freshly prepared ala carte restaurants as much as possible.
6. Use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth.

The more luxurious resorts are a real value in comparison to other islands.  The flights are usually less expensive going there as well.
Is Mexico a no go?  I don’t think so!