This series of articles deals with the question: How safe is Mexico really – for women who travel alone or live here?
I lived in Mexico for three years 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.
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.
In this article, two Mexican women speak. In the first part, which you can read again hereI spoke to three German women who live in Mexico.
Table of contents
Marion, originally from Germany, has lived in Mexico for over 40 years
Tell us a bit about yourself: Where do you live in Mexico and what do you do for a living?
My parents moved to Mexico 40 years ago, I was 11 years old. I have two children who are already in university but have studied in the German school and am married to a Mexican. I live near Mexico City in a private district. I am German strength in the German school in kindergarten.
How often do you have contact with foreign women, especially from Germany?
In my work in kindergarten I have daily contact with German women and outside of work I have direct contact once a month and via social media once a week.
What do you think are the most common fears or concerns foreign women have before coming to Mexico?
Many are concerned for their own safety, because they often tell that in Germany much negative is reported about Mexico. The language and local habits are initially unusual. The distance (Mexico city is huge!) and the local transport.
How safe do you feel Mexico for women travelling alone?
From 1 to 10 I feel it 7
It all depends on where you want to travel and which transports you use.
How do locals in Mexico usually react to foreign women traveling alone? Is there support or special willingness to help?
It all depends on which area the solo travelers foreign women travel in i.e. in big cities there is a bit of danger, but in small areas or beaches the people are relatively helpful and nice.
What safety precautions would you recommend for women travelling alone to feel comfortable and safe in Mexico?
Don’t dress very provocatively. Always travel with controlled transports i.e. to reserve registered means of transport such as UBER, various travel companies and all this via a travel agency.
How important is it that foreigners speak a little Spanish to feel safer? Do you have any tips on how to learn the language quickly?
It is not too important to know the language properly, as there are also many apps that can help you through Zalfen, and the local residents are very helpful.
What do you think women should necessarily know about Mexican culture and mentality to enrich their travel experience?
They have to adapt to the culture a bit, i.e. not everything works like in Germany, but there are other possibilities where you really have to adapt.
If you feel like planning your trip now, check out my article on the best time to visit Mexico – so you know when sun, beach or green rainy season await you: Best Time to Visit Mexico 2025: Climate, Weather & Rain Season.
Elvia, Mexican, speaks German because her church has a partner church in Germany
Please introduce yourself and say where you come from:
Hi, my name is Elvia Estela Carro González. I am from Mexico and live in the state of Tlaxcala.
What do you think are the most common fears and worries foreign women have before coming to Mexico?
I think one of the biggest fears that foreign women have when they come to Mexico is the insecurity that currently prevails in the country – especially gender-based violence.
How safe do you think Mexico is for women traveling alone?
I believe it is safe as long as you think carefully about where you want to travel, as there are areas in the country with a higher crime rate.
What recommendations would you give women to make them feel comfortable and safe in Mexico?
Inform yourself in advance about the situation of the place you want to visit, because as already mentioned, there are very dangerous areas – especially for women.
Also find a trusted contact who can welcome you in Mexico and help you settle into the culture – preferably a family.
How important do you think that foreigners speak at least a little Spanish?
It is very important – especially in order to shop or pay. Otherwise, it can easily happen that one is exploited or robbed.
What do you think foreign women should know about Mexican culture and mentality to enrich their travel experience?
- Mexicans are very humorous, they find something funny in everything – this can sometimes be unpleasant for foreign women.
- They show their feelings very openly, especially their affection: one is greeted with a kiss and a hug.
- Almost every Mexican food contains chili – and if a Mexican says it’s not spicy, don’t believe it, because it’s always spicy 😅
- Care for your intestinal flora with probiotics, because Mexican food is initially very charming for many foreigners.
If you could give advice to a German woman who is still hesitant to travel to Mexico alone – what would that be?
Try contacting a Mexican woman or other German who has already been to Mexico so you can clarify your doubts.
Mexico is a beautiful country – and so are its people. I think if you follow these tips, your experience here can be very enriching.
I hope the interview could help you and give you a new perspective. It may have taken away your worries a bit.
Are you still unsure if Mexico is the right destination for you? Do you have any open questions?
Then go into the comments! I look forward to the exchange with you.
Or you can read this article here. Here I write about 7 good reasons why Mexico should be on your travel list: 7 Reasons to Travel to Mexico.
