Cancun & Playa Del Carmen are SO Dangerous 👀

#cancun #playadelcarmen #safety
Shocking expose on the dangers of traveling to Cancun & Playa Del Carmen Mexico. Watch this to see how safe you really are....
26 Million Americans travel to Mexico annually, yet many are scared to visit the most beautiful and popular parts of Mexico, such as the famous cities of Cancun and Playa Del Carmen.
Is Mexico safe? Is Cancun Safe? Is Playa Del Carmen Safe?
Is Mexico Dangerous? Is Cancun Dangerous? Is Playa Del Carmen Dangerous?

[@denisemariner1235]

I usually see or read reviews posted by younger and able bodied travellers. As seniors and, disabled, we have concerns when we travel. As I tell my husband, I, am a sitting duck for abuse or violence. That being said, after thirty five years traveling through Mexico I had never been hurt, threaten, ignored, left behind, robbed. It is about making safe decisions , knowing the environment, and not putting yourself in danger with drug or alcohol abuses. Pack your suitcase, and remember to pack your brains too.

[@rafaelmariscal9170]

Lol, that was brilliant. Pack your suitcase and don't leave your brains behind. We were just in 4 different tourist places of Mexico and felt safe the whole time, even though we were kind of apprehensive at first. We hadn't gone in many years and were falling for the constant negative headlines.

[@elizabeth4275]

Haha 😂

[@CameronGibson-yo8sp]

Facts !

[@ampg2]

Pack your brains is the best advice for any travel!

[@renerincon1]

Pretty much my experience of traveling in Mexico . Use common sense and you should be fine. Mexican people in general are very friendly and helpful .

[@josephszostak4870]

Amen, I’m born and raised Chicagoan and YES been to CanCun, PDC, Isla Mujeras, Tulum and Cozumel over 20 times and NEVER felt unsafe

[@klle3419]

that’s because you’re blind eye to the fact you’re not looking at the statistics

[@DimiG88]

On point! Been to Cancun multiple times. Never felt unsafe or threatened

[@porterbrass]

In the hotel zone, I had a store clerk chase me down to give me my credit card I had left behind after a purchase. We’ve been back many times because we love the people and the hospitality in Cancun.

[@renerincon1]

While it wasn’t in Cancun, in Mexico City a few years ago I left an expensive camera in a taxi that had dropped me off at my hotel. However about an hour later he came back to the hotel to return the camera to me .

[@adrifoster]

As a Mexican, thanks for commenting on this topic. The amount of fear mongering across the us and Canada regarding how mexico is “unsafe” is astonishing. So many people i know as a Canadian resident are so ignorant about it

[@stevevirag8282]

I love Mexico and the people are so amazing my plan is to live there when I retire. Common sense is needed everywhere u travel and where u live. Mexico in my opinion is amazing I never feel unsafe when I visit

[@milwaukeemotor5995]

sure, if youre staying in the resort its safe, going outside the resort is a different story

[@stevevirag8282]

@@milwaukeemotor5995 that's BS I don't stay at resorts I rent apartments I have never felt unsafe

[@johnnyjohn8073]

@@milwaukeemotor5995 You are so wrong. You can actually travel outside the tourist areas & be safe. The recommendation to tourists is simply to stay in the "blue zone" areas. There's areas in European countries were you are also advised not to go as a tourists. Italy has a lot of pick pocket thieves & so does spain. Look at how dangerous it is in many areas here in the U.S. If you're a black British or any black european, I'd say, stay away from Republican control states where they have stand your ground laws because they are likely to get killed by an angry Republican from a simple argument that may turn into a little shub back & forth like I know it's happened in the past. I'd say to any tourist, travel to California but keep away from skid row, South Central LA, Boyle Heights, & other areas. Texas, Miami, Chicago, NY...etc., every mahor state has it's dangers. And Mexican schools are not dangerous like school here in the U.S. where so many school shootings occur.

[@paulzoom489]

@@johnnyjohn8073 I have never been pulled over on purpose in the US and been asked to pay the fine immediatly or I will go to jail, I have in Mexico. To say Mexico is safe and compare it to Italy is just silly the cartels literally run everything and can also literally get away with murder.

[@jerry132526]

You are spot on in your logic. This applies to most places in Mexico and the U.S. Nothing wrong with being cautious, but just use your head. Would be a shame to miss out on life changing opportunities based on fear.

[@klle3419]

there’s nothing life-changing about a vacation

[@klle3419]

there are many other countries you can go to instead.

[@klle3419]

I know the US is not at all the same all countries have many areas of Mexico as dangerous heightened dangerous areas for tourists they do not list the U.S. or other countries like chile as such

[@creer32ify]

I feel 100% more safe in Playa Del Carmen than I ever would walking in downtown Portland or Seattle. I will walk that entire city with my wife and kids. its an amazing town!

[@MiaomiaoShen]

this is so true much safer than walking in sf downtown

[@johnnyjohn8073]

I'm a Southern Californian, I love my state even though Republicans talk so much smack about the homeless problem we have, which most are not even from California & get bused in from red states like texas is doing with their immigrants. But yeah, I found myself driving through skid row by accident late at night after a night out in Down Town LA. This is the same with every city in every state all over the world. You step just outside the nice area, and it's like being in a zombie movie. Scary.

[@natejohnson3016]

As an Oregonian, yeah… Portland is fucking sketchy. Love visiting but you have to keep your head on a swivel.

[@BigRW]

​@@johnnyjohn8073You've been fooled. No one is bussing homeless to your city. They go there because they can steal and use drugs with impunity because Democrats don't enforce the rule of law.

[@hoppeanofasgard1365]

I don't know man, you get past that major highway that divides the city right down the middle and keep walking the town starts to look pretty ugly pretty quick.

[@scenicviewstravelgal]

Thank you for this! 👏🏻 I’m a travel agent and have clients concerned about Mexico all the time. I don’t try to sway my clients but I do try to inform them. I live near Baltimore and am far more concerned about going there vs Mexico. I traveled solo as a woman in January and had an incredible experience. I love Mexico and I hate that it gets such a bad reputation from the media.

[@thewesternmind]

Thanks for a much needed video! I don’t get to travel internationally but I travel all over the US on business and can tell you there are places where I do not feel safe. It is all about situational awareness. Great and important video James!

[@HotWins247]

James, as you mentioned, walking the Cancun Hotel Zone is safer than walking lawless cities at night like LA, Chicago and etc. I walk from resorts to the Red Casino in Cancun in the middle of the night and feel perfectly safe.

[@willynorris1739]

Travelled recently to San Jose Del Cabo. I can’t state strongly enough how clean and safe it was! I’ll be back!!

[@Jericho642]

I’ve been to Playa each year (except COVID) for almost the last 10 years; never had any issues or seen any problems. Back there again next month, and can’t wait. Love Mexico and the Mexican people

[@rubybeard944]

What’s the temperature I plan on going March 15 2024 Ty

[@Jericho642]

@@rubybeard944 28-32 Celsius everyday

[@Patcd89]

Just booked our first all inclusive to Cancun! This video made me feel much better about it, safety wise. Always a concern when all you hear about Mexico is cartel violence.

[@danieldelgado8153]

I have been traveling to Mexico for over 40 years. I have never had any issues with the kind people of Mexico. Recently returned from Cancun and had a blast. Traveled to remote areas and never felt unsafe. All our tour guides were awesome and went out their way to help everyone. I’ll be back sooner than later. My best Dan

[@kaslayton]

Damn you did a hell of a job on this video. Every word choice was exceptional. Made me respect you even more.

[@carlfromtheoc1788]

Went to the Yucatan and stayed in the city of Merida in 2021 for a week. Had a great time, no issues.

[@lizzys6954]

Yesssssss!!!! PREACH JAMES! It is crazy how much of a bad reputation Mexico gets. So many people turn their nose up to travel there when I bring it up.

[@BridgetWeedon]

Me too. I go by myself a lot and I love Mexico. Have always felt safe. Been to Cancun, Oaxaca City, Mazatlan, Puerto Vallarta and Guanajuato. Beautiful towns and people. ✌🏼

[@lizzys6954]

@BridgetWeedon nice! I typically stick to Cancun/RM. I want to explore more, but I'm a sucker for the value you get there. It is 100% less safe being in cities near me like Philly, Camden, or Trenton. 🤣 But I also visit those too for concerts and the occasional sporting event.

[@Soilednips]

i went to Excaret and we rented a locker to put our stuff in while we walked the park. My wife and i unknowingly left our locker open when we left and when we came back we saw all of our stuff gone. We panicked and thought we lost everything (our money and camera) We found an employee and told them we lost our stuff. They looked us up on a computer and they said our locker alerted them that it was left open so they went ahead and took our stuff and brought it to the lost and found (they didnt know if we had our key on us or if we left it in the locker so they took it). Everything was there and we were so releived. Oh and there was no time wasted on checking bags people just walking into the park which was really wierd for us XD

[@mgee1723]

Booking a trip with my lady and this has been on my mind. Thanks

[@patriciakrakowiak1442]

As a lifelong Chicago resident, i agree with you. Pre-covid i used to take the train downtown every week. I would go shopping and eating in the loop. I havent been downtown in 3 years because of the shootings and robberies there.

[@marcussavina2726]

Imma go to a nightclub right now. Passport on grand and Ashland. I'll meet you there for a drink

[@patriciakrakowiak1442]

@marcussavina2726 honey I live by OHare, I'm too far away. I have to be at work at 6:30 am tomorrow. But thanks for the offer.

[@chuysmith9947]

I drive in Mexico. The roads are greatly improved. Drive in the daytime on the main roads and you will not have a problem.

[@sandrathomas6161]

Excellent video!! Love Cancun! Thanks for all you do!

[@ronhadfield2418]

I love the way that you threw Sinaloa under the bus. I live in Mazatlán and it’s a very safe city in Sinaloa. A lot of the violence has occurred in Culiacán Sinaloa which is two and a half hour drive away but the whole state gets tarred by the same brush.

[@sleepydaboss22]

Very true. I went to culiacan last year in November it was AWESOME. same for mazatlan, the beach and bars were 🔥🔥

[@timelessadventurer]

“Very safe” that you say are some very strong words…I wouldn’t even call Chicago safe, and I’m from there…

[@allenpearson9716]

Thank you for that video. I wish more people would make videos like that. We have been traveling to Cancun for 20 years and have had nothing but amazing experience. I had many friends that have gone to Jamaica and have been robbed and held up at gunpoint.there are many more dangerous places including cities in America that are more dangerous

[@abeeiland2996]

You are the best. Thank you for your sincerity

[@timothyborum8591]

It’s unsafe EVERYWHERE there is no such thing as “the safest place” the media headlines will always be dramatic it’s called COMMON SENSE if you don’t have any go look it up

[@GinaStanyerBooks]

Great video. I got lost once driving in downtown Detroit, and it was one of the scariest moments of my life.

[@PattyEmmert]

Born and raised in Detroit - please stop saying bad things about my city. Like the video states, crime is overblown and the fear mongering is real.

[@GinaStanyerBooks]

@@PattyEmmert well, I stopped at a gas station to ask directions and the girl behind the bulletproof glass and bars was the one that told me to get back in my car fast. So yeah, it was scary.

[@ronzombie6541]

​@@GinaStanyerBookssame. Cashier said get back on the interstate and keep driving.

[@Mr_C5627]

@@PattyEmmert its a shithole and not safe lmao

[@alireda6222]

We are senior couple and we bought a condo in downtown Playa Del Carmen five years ago, we leave Canada and stay more than five months every winter. We see young girls walking their dogs in a little dark side streets, and girls are coming back from night club at around three o'clock after midnight. There is no place on earth that is 100% safe, but PDC is for sure much safer than many cities in the USA or Canada.

[@garybucci7331]

I live outside of Philly in the bubs. I cant tell you that when I travel to Cancun, it is MUCH safer than going to Philly at any part of the day. I have a 4yr old and my wife's parents are going nuts on us because we are going to Hilton Tulum in May. We have a private shuttle, and its also not my first rodeo at Cancun. Meanwhile, we live near Philly and New York.... The mexican people I have interacted with on my travels there have been some of the nicest people I have ever encountered. I cannot say the same thing about some of my fellow Americans...

[@kristinakorovina5551]

Just got back from Playa del Carmen, NEVER felt in danger. Ive been to Mexico City, Cabo, Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita,Bacalar,Tulum,Pdc,Cancun,Merida. Never felt that safe in Usa

[@purplesprigs]

The air pollution in Mexico City is off the charts. For two weeks after I got home, I had "lawnmower smell" in my nasal passages. It is a filthy, overcrowded dump, with a few tourist traps. I would recommend it to NO ONE.

[@kristinakorovina5551]

@purplesprigs i loved it for its history, museums, food was amazing. It was polluted as we were there in May

[@andrewdavey6971]

Thanks for posting this video. I've traveled to multiple spots on the Pacific side of Mexico (like Cabo and PV), and I never felt in danger... Except for that one time when I was walking in the Gallery District in San José del Cabo, and I clumsily tripped down the sidewalk stairs. Even then, I only suffered minor scratches, and I was able to get back up and get walking again. Never once did I sense I was about to stumble into some c----l shootout! IMHO, as long as you use some common sense and avoid the obvious c----l hotspots, you should be fine traveling around Mexico. Yes, you can probably even leave the hotel and explore the cities!

[@robert69x2]

Alert! Please. Please. Please always plan your travel appropriately. Including rides to and from the hotels. Taxis are “connected”. If you travel here. Travel with all of your rides planned ahead of time. Do NOT get your rides when you arrive. Especially if your plane ride is late at night. Please be aware!

[@vivalabad6]

I was in Playa Del Carmen, Cancun and Cozumel in 2020. Walked around tourist areas no problem, and we ventured out of the tourist areas a few times too. Only issues I remember were the stray packs of dogs, and random road kill (saw a very gruesome scene of a dead cat) outside of tourist areas. Not surprising when you realize how they drive over there. In the tourist areas you'll meet random drug dealers who will offer you about a million types of drugs in one sentence as you're walking down the tourist strips, which honestly didn't scare me at all. At the bus terminal, we saw an old dude peeing his pants while standing there in a daze. Other than that it was an amazing time and I saw so much that I've never seen before.

[@dougronald561]

I travel and am going somewhere all the time. I’ve been told a million times by people that I shouldn’t go somewhere because it’s “unsafe.” After each trip I come back fine and don’t see what they’re saying. I’ve also noticed that those people sit home all the time, so there’s no way they can know. They just rather put me down than make changes in their own life.

[@1FlyingSolo1]

I have a friend just like that. Always trying to dissuade me from going to "unsafe" countries. Thailand, Guatemala, Ecuador, Jamaica, and now Colombia visited, with no problems. Situational awareness is everything. I think secretly he wishes he had the cajones to travel with me to some of these places, haha.

[@dougronald561]

@@1FlyingSolo1 exactly!

[@irina54723]

After this video I respect you and what you do much more!!!

[@KardosoMedia]

Thankfully I have never had a bad or unsafe experience in 20 years of traveling to Cancun, Playa or PV...not to say things dont happen but it's alot more rare than news and media make it out to be. Great video James.

[@magedojo]

Oh man. The comments about River North made me sad. I love that city, and that's one of my favorite parts of it. I haven't been there in like 6 years, sucks that's apparently an area where you need to be vigilant these days. Edit for clarity. You should always be aware of your surroundings. I'm talking about that "next level" of awareness.

[@phrewilly8556]

A buddy of mine and I many years ago broke down in his Porche 911 in Cicero! Talk about scary!

[@christianmeza4941]

Where is Cicero?

[@phrewilly8556]

@@christianmeza4941 South Side Chicago near Midway Airport.

[@EarthenDam]

Nice to see these numbers put into perspective.

[@Paterson340]

hi there, where exactly are you situated at 3 min 25 - 40 seconds? NICE STREET

[@agger838]

I have a friend who was robbed on their shuttle bus to the resort. Apparently theyre targeted because they know which vans have tourists and know tourists carry cash

[@matthewjohnson1211]

This is the kind of thing, that if it goes unchecked, will be the slow undoing of the Playa/cancun tourist zone. If kidnappings for ransom ever occur -it’ll be Acapulco.

[@KoubuPilot]

Only once did I ever stay at a hotel in Mexico (Orizaba). We used to make day trips here and there to the border in Nogales (less than 3 hours from my house), but twice we made trips that lasted 2 weeks in like 1987 and 1994. Went to Mexico City, Orizaba, and Veracruz where we visited relatives. We stayed with relatives except for Orizaba. I remember staying with an aunt and before going to bed she covered our stuff with sheets so that burglars wouldn’t see it. I remember my aunt who lived with us telling me stories of growing up in Veracruz and hearing the burglars walking across the rooftops of the houses. When I was a missionary 24 years ago I was sent to Guayaquil, Ecuador. We lived in the areas where we serve. In talking to people, they always ask where you’re from. I would ask them where the thought I was from before I told them. Being Hispanic and from Arizona, having spoken Spanish a lot when I was little and taking Spanish classes in high school for easy A, only once did anyone ever correctly guess I’m American. Most people thought I was from a Latin country like Mexico or Bolivia since I could blend in easier than the other Americans. But yeah, some of those areas in Guayaquil like Union Civica and Mapasingue aren’t places tourists should go

[@1FlyingSolo1]

I grew up in Quito in the 1990s. Yeah, not everywhere in Quito or Guayaquil was safe or good for tourists, but you learn as a resident foreigner where to go. I rode the trolley bus all over Quito as a kid and never had an issue. I see that a lot of my fellow Americans, especially those who haven't been outside the USA much are apprehensive to venture too far out bc they don't know what to expect. It's all situational awareness. I also find that a lot of the problems tourists experience are bc they are out late at night in a seedy area or they are getting involved in illicit activities. Avoid those things and your risk drops to almost nothing.

[@KoubuPilot]

@@1FlyingSolo1 I was able to blend it n with the crowd since I’m Hispanic. Most people never guessed I was American, so I at least had that going for me

[@1FlyingSolo1]

@@KoubuPilot That makes a difference since you can blend in and definitely an advantage. Harder to do that if they assume you are a Gringo based on your appearance.

[@cookiejay933]

That was a great video and topic. Thank you.

[@fjs2871]

Just booked Iberostar Selection because of your video.

[@hulkhoganwwf]

Im looking at that resort as well because of his recommendation. Please come back and let me know how you like it.

[@johnnyjohn8073]

@@hulkhoganwwf I'm vacationing there for one week, leaving to Cancun tomorrow night with my brother.

[@jadaturner3972]

How was your trip? Going in April and feel sooo nervous

[@Mr_C5627]

@@johnnyjohn8073 how was it? i got trip to iberostar coral at end of august

[@rhondalockrey9592]

I think common sense must be used in any city crime is certainly on he rise & mental health issues everywhere seems like an epidemic. I have been to Cancun a few times & they have always said be careful off the resort late at night meaning like if your in your own city late at night pay attention to what is going on. I love Mexico we went to Puerta Vallarta last year instead of Cancun really liked it there too.

[@DraperHollett]

I'm from Canada and have lived in Cancun for three years. I don't live in the hotel zone far from it and I have never had a problem here. I take public transport and walk the streets amazing place and people. Trouble can happen anywhere if you're looking for it! Don't get me wrong, anything can happen, but that can happen anywhere!

[@andrewbrann6231]

I watch a KZbinr that has lived in Merida 6 years. His family came from Cuba but he grew up his whole life in miami. Supposably Merida which is not that far away from Cancun is the second safest city in all of the Americas only behind Quebec. It's not a tourist area

[@Aem640]

Never felt threatened in Mexico in playa Del Carmen hotel.

[@shaygreene2473]

As a person that grew up in Chicago I no longer go to the downtown area at all anymore. Although I do not know anyone who personally has had anything happen, we just don’t go. And I went there most of my life and you could comfortably move about. When my mom was worried about us going to Playa Mujeres last year for vacay I told her more happens here in Chicago than it does in the resort area of Cancun. More happens here in Chicago and the surrounding areas. I went and took my then 17 year old daughter. And to get to our resort we had a good 45 to hour drive bc of the construction and it literally was like riding through anywhere else. I do want to visit Bacalar and I AM hesitant bc it IS away from the resort area. But it looks like such a beautiful relaxed and lazy place to just eat good food, mix with the people and loaf.

[@vapa86]

Been to bacalar last week. Never felt unsafe. I arrived from merida via bus 5am in the dark. Nothing happened. People are friendly.

[@shaygreene2473]

@@vapa86 ok! I was going to fly in to Mexico a rent a car and drive down.

[@davegriffith6409]

I’ve been to playa del Carmen, Isla Mujeres, Riveria Maya Tulum, puerto morales, Puerto Vallarta and have done excursions at each one and never felt unsafe

[@mohawkman4506]

Been to Cancun a Mayan riviera 30+ times in last 15yrs and always felt safe ! Even bombed at whatever strip club a never felt unsafe . If you go looking for trouble you’ll find trouble as they say . So feel safe . I bring my family to Cancun at least twice a year . They love going to Mexico 🇲🇽

[@TheCozyHome]

From someone that has spent quite a bit of time traveling in these areas, it does not feel as safe as it did, for example in 2018; however you're spot on in saying many US cities are also unsafe.. Chicago, NYC and New Orleans just to name a few. New Orleans has a huge amount of crime that often isn't talked about.

[@christianmeza4941]

im a mex living in new Orleans came back late from work while ago and someone put a gun to my head to rob me in a supposedly good place "uptown"😵‍💫😖

[@ivankariaka576]

It can be quite a dangerous and unpleasant experience when you're trying to explore somewhere outside a hotel area, to go buy car to the pyramids, or just visit a gas station, or stay at a regular non-resort hotel. On the roads you can see many pickup trucks with people armed with rifles, and these trucks are not the police. Many locals are trying to make money from you in any situation. When I was driving a rental car in the Playa Del Carmen area, the police stopped me and tried to get money from me, I was lucky that my wife knew Spanish and they didn’t get anything from me, this is a very common story if you have a rental car. Many of my friends were deceived at gas stations by giving out change incorrectly and stealing the money. One friend in Cancun had his laptop stolen from his room in a hotel outside the hotel area. My advice is to only take the shuttle and do not leave the hotel area.

[@howardgarrett7865]

Totally agree with you I actually walk that area in Playa del Carmen or Playacar you showed on your video About the only thing you need to watch out for is people trying to get you to buy something lol

[@DFUTURE2121]

Great video as always. I love the Las Vegas videos as well.

[@Kilo1158]

Yes Cancun is safe but it still can happen. But to keep it in perspective, the last time something 'serious' happened in Cancun/PDC was in 2021 when there was a low level cartel vs cartel shootout on resort grounds and some tourists got shot in the crossfire. The Mexican national guard was all over that incident and keep visibility in tourist areas to this day.

[@vapa86]

An italian resident was killed last year in PDC, shot outside the bar where she worked. But this is something exceptional.

[@stevevirag8282]

I am asked the same thing from people when I tell them my plan is to retire in playa del carmen. They say Mexico is so dangerous I tell them u can find trouble in your own city. It's there if u are looking for it. Common sense is important where ever u go. I've been going to Mexico in different locations all my life. Never felt unsafe at all. My wife and I stay at a place off the tourist area in playa never had an issue.

[@robyn-ys2ry]

The people you mentioned that went to a Mexican border town from S Carolina to get a “tummy tuck” were actually found to be there for drugs. Which is important to note, because that’s one of the top reasons people find trouble in Mexico. So, don’t look for drugs, buy drugs or talk to anyone about drugs, stay in the tourist areas, and you’ll be 100% fine.

[@deanayer3822]

I had a time share at the Royal Caribbean in Cancun for decades and even in the 1990's they had armed guards around but it was safe to get in a cab, go shopping, walk around the tourist areas of downtown, go to restaurants and clubs etc. but you also knew there were a whole series of mansions along the water owned by drug kingpins and the cops were shady but generally if you stayed with the herd you were very safe because the area had a separate police force from the rest of the country and they wanted to make this work, to do that it had to be safe. Then maybe 10-12 years ago there were some drug dealer battles in the area, someone found a bag of human heads in Cancun (all Mexican drug people, not tourists), then they had problems with the alcohol being laced with something in Playa Del Carmen. It doesn't take much to spook Americans with options away from a place. Look at Aruba after Natalie Holloway got murdered by that psycho Van Der Sloot - tourism ground to an instant halt on that Island. All it takes is an incident or two to hit the US news (open gun battle and murders in Playa Del Carmen between drug dealers) and their reputation is wrecked.

[@richardliles2543]

Great video I so agree with you my wife and I have gone to Playa del Carmen so many times and never felt unsafe. We love playa at night do pretty all the lights

[@jovhanrichards6114]

Been to Bovaro, Punta Cana and felt very safe. Next is San Pedro, Belize then Cancun and that's why I'm here.

[@birdseye5074]

I was in Chicago over a 3 long weekend. After the business trip, I had google how many people were shot over that period. 75 people were shot in a 3 day span. WTF!

[@danc8363]

100 percent truth. I traveled to Mexico at least three times a year all of them in resort towns for at least 20 years now. If you're looking for nefarious things that will definitely increase your chances of trouble but most people are not that stupid so I would bet my house that nothing will ever happen to me In tourist towns of Mexico. It is very safe and ninety-nine percent of the locals are extremely friendly and helpful. It's their livelihood it's a necessary thing to protect the tourist industry in their respective towns.

[@roccstar55]

I just came back from Cancun, and I live in Chicago. I felt much safer in Cancun than I do here at home especially in hotel zone. I walked from the party stripped to my hotel at 3 AM and was 100% fine. I will never walk that late in River north, Lincoln Park, Streeterville, or Lakeview.

[@nelsondiaz-lara6315]

I totally agree! Much safer Playa del Carmen or cancun than almost any city in the United States now a days, and thats the unbelievable truth, no deniel !

[@Kazwell111]

Leave it to New Weak, to distort the facts, they lost their credibility 20 years ago.

[@youngkreisler]

It's a real shame to see so many fun place ruined by criminals. In Chicago, the River North area up to Ohio St is still pretty safe and exciting. West loop where all the new restaurants are is pretty good. I wouldn't go to other areas at night. In Cancun, my family used to take the bus downtown to local festivals in the town square. If you have kids, they'll have a lot of fun with local kids. It would be really boring if you are just restricted to the Hotel zone.

[@MrJonevegas]

Good commentary, I posted on the same topic as a Canadian and a perm resident of Mexico, I fee safer in Mexico, especially in BCS where I live, its good to warn but propaganda, click bait and opinion has ruined the reality, we can all find toruble, its everywhere, there are daily shootings in Vancouver, rarely do I hear of a shooting in La Paz, not a consiracy theorist in any way, just a normal person tryng to carve out a life, we are brainwashed in NA that there is no better places than Canada and the US, I can say bowshite on all that, everything from costs of foods, medical care has been great, and the core of Mexican value....Family, something that has been errodining in North America for years

[@maryswanson9982]

I never thought Cozumel was dangerous. Go to the museum and snorkel in Chankanab lagoon!

[@klle3419]

people report that lawyers won’t even take their cases when the cartel threatens them

[@lmaga1082]

Just got back from Cancun. Its awesome. Safer than Chicago, Philadelphia, Detroit, New York

[@gerry9306]

Your comparison is ridiculous. You need to compare Cancun to other tropical destinations around the world, not to urban areas of the USA. When I plan my beach holidays I'm not weighing Cancun vs Detroit or Philly. Keep things in context chuckles. 🤡

[@davidvoth7218]

As someone that has lived in the Chicagoland area for most of my life I agree with everything you said about the city.

[@coldstonedfox5492]

I’ve lived in Chicago all my 30 years of life. River north is safe. The media is what’s dangerous.

[@janesdresser8843]

Going to Cancun for the 3rd time in September. We did get stalked for our phone but put it away quickly .

[@peterhuntington7151]

Currently in Playa Del Carmen and was in Cancun last week. For anyone wishing to visit this part of the world I would stay away. Playa Del Carmen is a tacky run-down destination with exorbitant prices. Cancun is a little better. But to be honest there are much better places to visit around the world than here. Everyone we have spoken to in our hotel said they wouldn't come back. Street vendors openly offer hard drugs and whatever else you might be into just feet away from our 5 * hotel even though the street is crawling with police vehicles!! The police are more interested in having their shoes cleaned by a street vendor than properly patrolling the area. Airbnb issues with properties being nothing like the photos with pools closed, and construction noise - all scams. Beaches are dirty with loads of seaweed and the smell!!!! Don't feel unsafe here just uncomfortable, exposed and ripped off.

[@kg1kelly]

Seriously excellent information. Thank you so much.

[@ramirezharrier]

Me, a Chicagoan in River North debating on PDC. "Oh, alright send it boys" 😂

[@raulsanchez9795]

I hate cheap crowded beach destination

[@dan22482]

Lol I just moved from an apartment that had a direct view of e=mc2. West facing in streeterville.

[@wjkrug]

Your videos are really great

[@bobbullethalf]

Just stay around the resort is the best advice.

[@drewspitzer]

I choose to take my wife and kids to Riviera Maya for vacations because it is so safe. Much safer than Miami, Chicago, Vegas, LA, Nee York, etc. once again I agree it’s you 100% you are the best James!

[@mattmayers3012]

I agree with everything you said 100% I've walked all of those areas numerous time's and always felt safe!!

[@ricksmith7214]

What about Acapulco ??? Used to be my second home in 80’s and 90’s…. WOW what a place it was , felt like Las Vegas but without the gambling… always went 4 weeks in January was the most perfect weather never a cloud in the sky WOW….

[@jeffzwinge]

Hi James, Thanks for the video on safety. When I stayed at the Wyndham Alltra Playa Del Carmen, I would go out to the clubs every night. I walked back to the Wyndham at 2am each night alone. Never had a problem. The tourist areas of Playa Del Carmen are very safe. I walked everywhere with no issues. Keep up the great work James and I'll keep watching. 😎👍

[@YinxSAS]

I absolutely agree! If you are not involved in the drug trade, Mexico is much safer than the US and life is much better. Thank you for sharing.

[@bryceherring946]

The interior of Mexico is very very dangerous but the small enclaves of the coastal regions like Cabo out West or Riveria Cancun region to the East are extreme outliers, and in fact are very safe, well protected and very popular places for Americans and outside tourists to visit, but people have to understand that Mexico in general, the entire country as a whole, is still very very dangerous because it's a narco driven underground economy controlled by the cartels. I've been to Cancun Riveria region multiple times and it's very clear that as long as you don't venture far out and stay within the hotel zone, your time there will be very enjoyable while soaking up the paradise sun and ocean, however that should not and does not override that the rest of Mexico, the majority of the interior towns and cities would be much much more dangerous, I mean it's so dangerous people would not even rent cars and go for a drive without high risk of abduction or robbery.

[@Charles-nk3ep]

we have always stayed in the Riviera Maya but the hotel we want to stay at in the Riviera Maya doesn't have the room we want available in July so what is your favorite place to visit ? Riviera Maya ? Punta Cana? Jamaica / ETC. ?

[@user-po1ln6jr4l]

I have lived in the poorest part of Playa del Carmen for 5 years Winters only 6 months of the year and I never seen anything.

[@stephenmocanu408]

James - I have lived in Central America for 12 years - I have NEVER ONCE FELT UNSAFE EVER.

[@AbouTto_]

Just go to California, Texas, Vegas, or Florida.

[@DaKidMel33]

I walk PDC and cancun l times of the night drunk as hell sometimes and never felt afraid

[@Sassygagirl]

I've traveled many times to Mexico, alone. I have never felt I'm in danger & never been hassled. I dress like a local & walk with a mission, know where I'm going. Ive been traveling to plata del Carmen for 35 years & though it has changed, I still feel very safe. Aruba is the safest destination I've ever been to. Mexico & Aruba understand reputation matters. Jamaica on the other hand, is much more dangerous. Many locals & government officials, could care less about respect or their country's reputation. Every visitor is an opportunity to make a buck, one way or another. I've stayed with locals & 4 star hotels. They are equal opportunists.

[@spinedoc893]

I think you hear more about issues in Mexico because there are so many more tourists going there than to other warm destinations so it stands to reason that more instances will occur but that doesn't necessarily mean it's less safe. For instance tourist visits to Mexico are around 5 times more than to DR. so if the 'risk' is equal in both countries on average you will have 5 times more instances of problems in Mexico. Most often people who get into dangerous situation its because they put themselves into dangerous situations.

[@deanlongthon4963]

I just spent three months in playa del carmen.you are correct.i have even been told by cartel people that tourists are off limits for robbery and violence. They make their money from tourism.also the police and national guard are all over 5 ave and beach area. Actually going back in a couple weeks

[@codypond3731]

I feel more safe in Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, Playa Mujeres, Puerto Vallarta and Tulum than I do walking downtown Calgary, Alberta.

[@user-hh4ip2jm2e]

I always feel safe in mexico...We love to goto Puerto Morelos and walk down by the shops and beach.

[@deannicol]

The most dangerous thing when travelling is yourself, make foolish decisions get drunk beyond comprehension and then see what happens LOL I’ve been to Mexico 45 times and never once felt unsafe . I returned from Zipolite a few weeks ago and that by far was the safest town in Mexico I’ve ever been to. Use your brain when travelling and you will be safe.

[@kazhamo]

Great video. Just came back from fourth trip to Mexico (five towns and cities). There are safe and dangerous places EVERYWHERE in the world including the USA. Common sense people... never mind LOL

[@gone4daystravel]

Thank you for this, because pple will be so stigmatized and not realize your not truly safe anywhere!!