How to Be an American Woman in Mexico

You're craving white beaches and fruity drinks and Coastal Mexico offers some of the best destinations for U.S. travelers. But for a single female, it could be a dubious proposition. Here's how to vacation in Mexico worry-free—and have fun!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sunscreen
• Basic Spanish

1. Pick the right place to stay. If you are an especially wary solo traveler, all of Mexico's top resort towns offer all-inclusive accommodations. All of your drinks, meals and activities are included in the fee, so there is no reason to leave the property. Most offer shuttles to shopping areas.

2. Try a boutique hotel away from the tourist zone and connect with a point person at this location. For the more adventurous, you should speak some Spanish in order to get by, but in more popular destinations like Los Cabos, most everyone speaks some level of English. It is always good for someone to know where you are both at your destination, as well as back home!

3. Watch yourself at night. Traveling in a group will be your safest bet; it is unwise to walk around any place in Mexico alone at night, as it is in any country. If you get stuck at a restaurant away from your hotel in the evening, call a cab or call your hotel and have them send a car.

4. Stroll around in the sun. During the day you should have no trouble. Make sure you don't attract attention by over-drinking or wandering about aimlessly. Being smart will keep you safe and having fun!

Tips & Warnings

• Use plenty of sunscreen and drink lots of water!
• If you are traveling alone, try to find other female tourists to link up with for shopping or dining fun!
• Make sure someone at the hotel or resort always knows where you are going.
• Get a cell phone to use during your stay. Talk to your concierge.
• Do not wander around alone at night.
• Do not drink too much.
• Do not accept rides or drinks from people you do not know.

Resources

• Dreams All Inclusive Resorts
• Pueblo Bonita Holistic Resorts