A travel insurance that covers just about everything is one thing that you should get before you travel to Mexico, and ensure that the coverage starts at the beginning of your trip until the time that you get back home. Make sure that it includes a comprehensive medical insurance package. Check if there is a provision or coverage for property losses due to theft.

Check with your GP for immunization requirements when you plan a vacation in a large tropical and temperate country such as Mexico. It’s not as demanding as African immunization shots, but do check what kind of vaccinations and immunization requirements you would need prior to traveling.

If you are under medication be sure to take enough of your prescription medicine to last until you get back home from your vacation in Mexico. Keep your original doctor’s prescriptions and medication in its original packaging as well. Have a set of medications in your belt bag or hand carry bag, and prepare another one for your luggage.

If flying to Mexico, avoid bringing poultry, ham, fruits, prepared dishes, guns or drugs. Know what items are prohibited to be brought in to Mexico to avoid potential problems at customs. With the escalation of drug trafficking, make sure that you have your original prescription for special and maintenance medicine, doctor’s license number, and other pertinent documents are with you to avoid trouble.

Keep your important documents in your room safe or in the hotel safe. You could also use a special lock for your luggage to prevent theft. Always carry a list of important phone numbers for emergency, such as your next of kin, the hotel’s front desk and local authorities. In Mexico the emergency number is 066. Be practical and aware of your surroundings at all times, from the moment you step out of your hotel. When taking a taxi, ask the hotel or restaurant to get it for you rather than hailing one on the street.

Use your ATM only at machines that are affiliated with national and international banks. Withdraw money during the day and choose an ATM machine that is located in a well-guarded location and those that face the street. If possible, avoid having your name and room number announced.

If you are a woman traveling alone, be sure that you dress sensibly all the time. Do not wear skimpy clothing unless you are in swimming in the pool or the beach. Do not accept drinks from strangers, be courteous but be firm when a person gets insistent on being overly friendly. Make sure you hold on to your bag close to your body and do not put all your cash and other valuables inside your shoulder bag. Use a body bag for your extra cash, a list of emergency contact numbers and your identification papers.

Do not display excessive signs of wealth like wearing expensive jewelry and carrying several electronic gadgets. You might not avoid looking like a tourist but do try to appear like a sensible tourist who knows what you are doing. Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of water. Make sure that you use bottled water, even when brushing your teeth. Avoid eating street foods and wash fresh fruits thoroughly. Mexican cuisine is something worth trying but do be careful and eat only at respectable and reputable foot outlets.

Be sensible and practical whenever you are in a foreign country, not only on Mexico. Do not drink in excess. Do not attempt to buy drugs. Do not carry large amounts of cash and carry only what you would need for the day plus some extra.

Despite the negative news plaguing the country, Mexico is still safe as a tourist destination as law enforcement authorities declare that the crimes are perpetrated against locals that are involved in gangs and drug trafficking. By following safety precautions and being alert all the time and aware of your surroundings and people around you, going on group tours and not wandering alone late at night, you are ensured that your vacation in Mexico would be a memorable experience.