5 women.
5 stories.
I lived in Mexico for three years. Again and again I was asked, ‘Isn’t Mexico totally dangerous?’ This question did not let go of me – and finally moved me to the Myth of dangerous Mexico clean up. For this I have selected and interviewed various women on site.
I was interested in: How safe is Mexico really – for women who travel alone or live here? I’ve talked to five different women who need to know. What they say gives a realistic insight – beyond prejudice and scaremongering.
In the first part, three German women of different ages share their Personal experiences with Mexico and solo travel. In the second part I interviewed two Mexican women who live in Mexico and Insights into their everyday life and give their views.
My goal is to get through these interviews. A more realistic and positive picture of Mexico To draw – beyond the common prejudices. I want to encourage you to look, listen and Make your own picture. Above all, I would like to see more Women find the couragetravel to Mexico and Gathering your own experience.
Table of contents
Isabell (24), originally from Germany
How long do you live or travel in Mexico, and what originally motivated you to visit the country?
In the summer of 2022 I came to Mexico by chance. At that time I was an au pair with a host family in England, and the mother received a job offer in Mexico. She asked me if I wanted to accompany her and the family there. I was curious and thought it could be an exciting experience. So I came to Mexico for the first time in August 2022. In March 2023 I left the country again. In August 2023 I returned to Mexico – and since then I have been living here again.
Have you traveled alone in other countries before? If so, where?
I lived in England for 2 years and then 9 months in Mexico, then 5 months in Australia. Another year in Mexico. I was never alone before. I have always lived with a host family or with WG partners. Only since 2024 I live alone in Mexico.
Did you have any specific concerns or fears before your trip to Mexico? If so, which?
Yes, I certainly had reservations before my trip to Mexico City. The media often paints a negative picture of the city and the country, which has caused me fears. My family also had great concerns, which has caused additional fears in me. I wondered how safe it would be and if I could feel comfortable there. Ultimately, however, I decided to take the journey and experience reality for myself, which turned out to be the right decision.
How was your arrival in Mexico? Did you immediately feel safe, or were there challenges you had to overcome?
The arrival in Mexico was overwhelming – so many new impressions at once! Everything was foreign to me and since I could not speak the language, it was particularly difficult to find my way around. Nevertheless, I was fascinated by the lively atmosphere and diversity of the city and the people.
Were there certain moments or encounters that you especially remembered and helped you feel comfortable?
Yes, in my first year in Mexico I worked at a German school and that helped me a lot to feel comfortable. The team there was incredibly friendly and made it easy for me to settle in. It was good to be able to continue to speak my mother tongue and to be in a familiar environment while slowly getting used to life in Mexico.
How did locals react to you as a solo woman? Have you experienced support or helpfulness?
As a blonde and quite large person, I was naturally noticed in Mexico and was often stared at or even asked for my number. This took a lot of getting used to at first, but I never felt unsafe. However, I perceived the helpfulness rather limited – often I felt envy, because many automatically thought that being blond and "white" meant being wealthy.When trying to speak Spanish, I was not always understood, which was sometimes frustrating. When I used Google Translate, I also encountered rejection from time to time. Nevertheless, there were also some locals who were patient and made an effort to understand me, which helped me a lot to feel welcome.
What safety precautions have you taken to feel safe as a single woman traveling in Mexico?
To be honest, I have not taken many special safeguards. I relied mainly on my common sense. I knew it was better not to go alone in small alleys and be generally cautious. In the beginning, many told me what not to do, but ultimately you have to be on the ground and develop a sense of what is right and what is wrong.
Have you developed certain routines or behaviors to travel safely in Mexico?
Yes, I have developed some routines and behaviors to travel safely in Mexico. I only use Uber instead of taxis to make sure my journeys are traceable. At night, I refrain from wearing headphones to better perceive my surroundings, and I don’t walk alone in unsafe areas. These small adjustments give me more security in everyday life.
What tips would you give other women who still feel unsure about traveling to Mexico alone?
- First, it is important to trust your instincts. If something doesn’t seem good or safe, retreat and listen to your gut feeling.
- Use safe transportation using only Uber or other trusted driving services instead of taxis. Share your ride with someone to have extra security.
- Avoid being alone at night, especially in less crowded areas. It is safer to go accompanied.
- Become familiar with your surroundings. Find out about safe and unsafe neighborhoods so you can plan better.
- It also helps to acquire basic Spanish expressions. This facilitates communication and shows that you are striving to respect the local culture.
- It is important to note that any country can be dangerous if you are not careful. A conscious approach to the environment and a certain caution are advisable everywhere to stay safe and enjoy life in Mexico or elsewhere.
What positive surprises did you experience in Mexico that you did not expect before?
I was surprised how safe Mexico really is.
Which cultural differences have you noticed in particular, and how have you found them to be enriching?
In Mexico City, I experienced many cultural differences that were surprisingly positive. The city is much more open and lively than I originally thought. Compared to Germany, where many people are rather cautious, people meet here with a warm openness.
Another aspect that impressed me is the joie de vivre of people. Even if they have little, they often radiate satisfaction, because the family is above everything here. Close ties with loved ones and support within the community show that happiness is often independent of material wealth. These experiences have enriched my view of life and shown me how important interpersonal relationships are.
Have you built special friendships or networks that have helped you feel safe and integrated?
Yes, I have built special friendships that have helped me a lot. I have gained a great friend with whom I get along wonderfully. We are very similar and it is nice to have someone who shares similar interests and values. With her I have developed a special connection that means a lot to me in my everyday life here and has helped me to settle in and feel comfortable faster.
Compared to other countries you’ve traveled alone, how would you rate Mexico in terms of safety and comfort?
Compared to other countries, I feel Mexico is relatively safe, although you have to be careful in any foreign country. The only difference is that I was often warned before arriving in Mexico, which led to me being extra careful and re-examining many normal situations. However, this increased vigilance has also led me to perceive my environment more consciously and to adapt to the circumstances here. Overall, I have learned that you can also lead a good life in Mexico, as long as you find the right balance between caution and openness.
If you could give advice to other women who are hesitant to travel to Mexico, what would that be?
Just do it!!
What misconceptions or prejudices about Mexico would you like to clear up to take away the fear of other women?
In order to remove women’s fear of Mexico, I would like to clear up some misunderstandings. Every country has dangers, and Mexico is no exception. But it is often underestimated how diverse and beautiful this country really is. Mexico offers a rich culture, impressive nature, warm people and a vibrant community. Those who are open and careful at the same time can experience a wonderful time here. With a little attention and a willingness to get to know the culture, Mexico is safe to enjoy and experience to the fullest.
Wioleta (37), originally from Germany
How long do you live or travel in Mexico, and what originally motivated you to visit the country?
I have been living in Mexico City for a year, in July 2023 I landed here. I have always wanted to learn Spanish and live in a country where Spanish is spoken.
Have you traveled alone in other countries before? If so, where?
Yes, quite often. In fact, not on the American continent. When I lived in China, I often did short weekend trips alone. Four years ago, I traveled alone in Europe for several weeks.
Did you have any specific concerns or fears before your trip to Mexico? If so, which?
My only fear was related to the language, since I did not speak Spanish at the time, I was worried that I could not communicate in everyday life. But I assumed that because of the proximity to the USA, many Mexicans speak English, which should be enough for the beginning. Unfortunately, that was a mistake, only a few Mexicans speak English (mostly only where many tourists were), but that of course led me to learn Spanish faster.
How was your arrival in Mexico? Did you immediately feel safe, or were there challenges you had to overcome?
I felt safe and walked the streets without problems and thoughts. Of course, you always have to pay attention and choose places where you go with your mind, but that’s how I behave while traveling in Europe.
How did locals react to you as a solo woman? Have you experienced support or helpfulness?
Of course, you always have to pay attention and be a little suspicious, there are always people on travel who want to take advantage of you and cheat, I have experienced something not only in Mexico. There are those who offer you three times the price of a performance or assume that you do not understand anything and give you a banana for 5€ Instead of selling 50 cents. Therefore, one must always be attentive and have ears and eyes open. But most people here are very friendly and nice.
What safety precautions have you taken to feel safe as a single woman traveling in Mexico?
To be honest, none at all. I started the journey just like any other. Without much preparation.
Which places or cities in Mexico do you find particularly safe and women-friendly, and why?
In none of the places I have visited have I felt insecure, so I can recommend them all: Acapulco, Bacalar, Vercruz, Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Puebla, Mexico City.
What tips would you give other women who still feel unsure about traveling to Mexico alone?
Maybe just stop reading the outdated and no longer current reports about Mexico.
What positive surprises did you experience in Mexico that you did not expect before?
I had not thought before that it would be so easy to travel in Mexico with public buses and that the connections actually fit well together. The buses are also very comfortable and modern. What disturbs, however, are the films that run in continuous loop throughout the journey. Only a few very good headphones will help!
Which cultural differences have you noticed in particular, and how have you found them to be enriching?
Mexicans always have time for everything, you can of course see advantages and disadvantages in this topic, but I have learned to be much more patient and also just let things be 🙂
What impressed you the most about Mexican culture or hospitality?
The fact that the family has the greatest value. For everyone, the family is important. In Mexico you can feel it particularly strongly. When you get divorced, when you lose your job or when you break up, the family is there to catch you.
Compared to other countries you’ve traveled alone, how would you rate Mexico in terms of safety and comfort?
After the year in Mexico, I can safely say that the country is one of the easiest countries I have traveled. Apart from the time it takes to travel because the country is huge, I wouldn’t worry much and recommend it to everyone.
Are there certain lessons from your previous travels that helped you feel more comfortable in Mexico?
Travelling alone is a bit like driving: You must always keep in mind that there are others around you that you do not know and cannot know how they can react. You simply have to observe the principle of limited trust.
If you could give advice to other women who are hesitant to travel to Mexico, what would that be?
I would never say anything negative about traveling in Mexico after my time in Mexico. Of course, you have to pay attention, of course you have to pay attention to who you tell and who you trust. In my opinion, however, these are things that you should pay attention to everywhere, no matter where you go.
Birgit (52), originally from Germany
How long do you live or travel in Mexico, and what originally motivated you to visit the country?
I lived in Turkey for 5 years and then in Egypt for a year. Since I had only positive memories of Mexico on a previous trip, I decided to move to the German School in Mexico City in 2023.
Have you traveled alone in other countries before? If so, where?
I have travelled to Lebanon, been to Yugoslavia, Turkey, Egypt, Italy, Morocco and Italy.
Were there certain moments or encounters that you especially remembered and helped you feel comfortable?
I was picked up from the airport and felt welcome. My colleague, whom I met in Mexico, and I were looking for a small house together, where I feel comfortable and secure to this day. My Mexican colleagues were there for me from the beginning.
How did locals react to you as a solo woman? Have you experienced support or helpfulness?
No matter what country I was traveling in, I always felt welcome. In Turkey I had a very nice guide, even up to the provision of kitchen utensils and other household items, as the transport of my personal belongings arrived in Turkey much later than expected.
What tips would you give other women who still feel unsure about traveling to Mexico alone?
They should behave as they behave everywhere so as not to take unnecessary risks. Whether in Berlin, Istanbul, Beirut or other cities. You shouldn’t overly hang out with expensive jewelry or go to areas that even the locals avoid.
If you could give advice to other women who are hesitant to travel to Mexico, what would that be?
Do not listen to the media and jump into the adventure Mexico without prejudice.
What misconceptions or prejudices about Mexico would you like to clear up to take away the fear of other women?
I claim, contrary to the usual opinion, that in Mexico, as a woman traveling alone, you can move very freely and safely.
I hope you could take something from the interviews and maybe one or the other concern was taken away.
So, what else keeps you from discovering Mexico for yourself? Please write in the comments what makes you hesitate so far or what concerns you have.
It continues on the 26. May 2025 with the second part: Two Mexican women give insights into their life in Mexico and share their very own perspective on their homeland: Women unpacking: How safe Mexico really is (Part 2)
