Safety of the Maya Riviera

The news in the U.S. lately has been anything but flattering about Mexico. We have heard about the crime, corruption, kidnappings, and some reports have gone so far as to mention the possible collapse of the nation.

People have approached me on numerous occasions to inquire how I feel about Mexico at this time. As I ponder the question I find my heart is saddened. My first introduction to Mexico came when I was a senior in High School. We had an exchange student, Adriana, who opened my eyes and heart to our neighboring country and its people. When I graduated I postponed starting college and went to live with Adriana and her family just outside Mexico City. This was in 1973 and the militia lined the main avenues of the city in riot gear, but I never once felt fear. Instead I felt their strong sense of family, loyalty and love. That, as I recall, impressed me the most.

I passed up an opportunity all those many years ago to visit a place that was just on the Mexican government drawing boards stages, a place that would eventually become Cancun. I had a family emergency and had to return home, so I had to forgo the sneak peak at paradise.

But fate, being what it is, led me to Cancun and immediately down the coast of the Mayan Riviera. It was love at first site. When I describe the attraction and the beauty of the area I have had many people comment on how that sounds like so many special spots in the Caribbean, turquoise waters, white sandy beach, the sound of the tropical birds. But to me it isn’t like any place else, at least no place else I have been. It is unique – from it’s karst limestone terrain to its rich Mayan history – and what sets it apart the most are the people. The local Maya people are some of the kindest, warmest people in the world. And what I have found is the expats, displaced workers and visitors that are drawn to this area are often attracted by a common thread of morality – the Mayas’ decency and rich sense of humor.

I have traveled several times a year to this area, sometimes with groups in tow, other times with friends and family, but mostly I have traveled alone, and I have never felt myself in danger. I don’t want to sugar coat things and I would not recommend pushing the limits and partying while flashing $100 bills around. But being sensible and staying in places such as Akumal I feel as safe, if not safer than I do at home.

So in answer to the questions and response to the concerns, I would tell people unequivocally that my heart is saddened by the news of what is happening along the border and in Mexico DF, but thank God the Yucatan is still a safe and wonderful place. And the local and national governments seem determined to make sure it stays that way. With friendly military check points combating the drug traffic it has not become a stronghold of cartels. Tourism is their life-line, but more importantly, morality is their core. That is what sets this part of Mexico apart from any place in the world.

I am continuing to move forward with group travel trips throughout the Yucatan, and especially in the Akumal area. With airfare to Cancun returning to a reasonable rate I encourage more to come and check it out. Akumal is celebrating its 50th year at the end of spring. The first of June we are offering a Grand Camp geared for Grandparents and their grand children, but any generation is welcome to join. In July, Minn Zoo is doing a Turtle Camp. October we have wonderful Women in Wellness trip that guarantees fun and fitness in paradise. These are but a few things on the calendar for this coming year.

PLEASE share your comments on this subject. We want to know how safe others feel in and around the Maya Riviera.