7 Things People Get Wrong About Mexico

By Hannah Pentin | July 18, 2024

Blending intriguing history, natural beauty, and “the best tacos” you will ever taste, Mexico beguiles tourists every year.

With international tourism rising, the country is clearly becoming more and more attractive as a destination. Concerns about safety, however, often overtake the whole allure of visiting Mexico, especially for solo travelers. Various media outlets declare falsehoods about the country, with the reality being much, much different. 

So, having personally traveled around this Central American gem, I want to debunk seven of these myths…

#Myth 1: Mexico buses aren’t safe

Many travelers come to Mexico believing bus travel is unsafe.

For example, I was told that people (i.e. corrupt police) enter the bus and ask for your passport, and money too, which can lead to confrontation issues.

This may be true for more local buses entering off-the-beaten-path areas, but buses operated by ADO (Autobuses De Oriente) are renowned for their safety, comfort and reliability. 

They are equipped with amenities like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and even onboard entertainment. With a strong safety record, many tourists use ADO services to reach major cities or more rural areas. It’s the perfect alternative to air travel or car rentals, as it’s affordable and efficient. 

#Myth 2: A hotspot for crime 

In every country, there are unsafe neighborhoods. 

So, of course, in Mexico there are areas which aren’t as safe as others, but millions of people travel to the country with no problems. 

Destinations like Cancun, Playa Del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta have rigid security measures to protect visitors. So, don’t be alarmed if you see soldiers walking across the beach with guns, as it’s actually to enhance your safety (something that can be disturbing at first). 

Undeniably, there are cases of petty crime, much like major cities in the US and Europe. However, if you stay aware, use your common sense and take precautions, you will reduce the risk. 

For example – don’t walk alone at night and keep valuables hidden. Take advantage of locals that know the best places to visit and areas to avoid – for example, tour guides, hotel, and hostel staff. 

In terms of drugs, you will only see that side of Mexico if you look for it, or want to get involved. There’s actually very little drug use amongst Mexicans themselves – and so the dealers target the ‘gringo’ resorts, where there is often an interest.  

#Myth 3: You will get sick

This could happen anywhere. 

You should always be wary when traveling to any new place, as your body needs to adapt to new drinking water and food. 

In Mexico, locals don’t drink the water, so neither should you. It’s best to buy bottled water, or use filtered water fountains provided by various accommodations in order to reduce plastic waste. 

Street food will not necessarily make you ill. People will warn you to stay away from it, but it’s the best way to get a taste for real, authentic food. 

Take street tacos in Mexico – they are a popular and iconic part of the local cuisine and are sold by street vendors, food stalls and small taquerias. If the food is well cooked and seems to be made in a more-or-less hygienic environment, then go for it!

#Myth 4: Mexico is just beaches & resorts

Don’t get me wrong, the beaches are beautiful, but to really experience Mexico you must go beyond the white sand and crystal blue waters. 

The country is home to diverse landscapes – canyons, cenotes, waterfalls, jungles, rainforests, lakes, and ancient ruins. You can also find colonial cities and bustling urban hubs like Mexico City. 

There are many regions, which have their own attractions, and each one provides a unique insight into the culture and history.

#Myth 5: Taxis are dangerous 

In Mexico, Uber is technically ‘not allowed’, but the app is found mainly in the big cities rather than the smaller ‘pueblos’ (villages). 

However, there is a known conflict between Uber drivers and local taxi drivers. To avoid this, make sure to order Ubers to pick you up AWAY from the main taxi areas. 

You should still try and use Uber rather than local taxis, as a tourist, as it’s slightly cheaper, and safer, as every journey is tracked.

#Myth 6: Everything is cheap in Mexico

This is a common misconception.

While it is true that daily expenses like food, transport, and some accommodations are more affordable than other countries, the cost of living varies depending on the region. 

In major cities, high-end establishments like restaurants and hotels can be on the pricier side. Tourist hotspots like Cancun, Tulum, Los Cabos boast some of the main upscale resorts and attractions and so the experiences available there usually come with a higher price tag. 

Saying this, budget-friendly options are readily available – with a wide network of hostels (Mayan Monkey, Che – two well-known chains), homestays (book via booking.com) and low-cost hotels. 

If you are happy to have a more local experience, then the prices will usually be on the cheaper side. 

But, expecting everything to be inexpensive can lead to misunderstandings, as the country is very diverse and everything depends on where you go and what you want to do. 

#Myth 7: Mexican food is too spicy 

Mexican food = burn-in-your-mouth sauces and tacos.

In reality, local cuisine is much more diverse and there are ways around that spicy sensation.

When you order local delights, the waiter will usually ask how hot you would like it to be, or they serve the salsa on the side, so you get to decide the level of spice.

Tip: a good drink to help cool down the spice is called – Horchata de Arroz – which is made with ground rice, milk and cinnamon.

If you want to challenge yourself to the world-known spices of Mexico then be sure to have this drink nearby in case you need a refresher.

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By debunking these myths about Mexico, as an educational travel company, we can inspire travelers to have an open mind, hold a deeper curiosity, and enter new destinations with respectful attitudes. 

This enhances connection with a destination, its local customs, community and culture. 

Ready to explore Mexico? Check out trips and tour information here, and let us help you plan an unforgettable trip and discover the ‘real’ Mexico.