What Can You Expect from the New Year’s

BY  Sibashree Apr 10, 2025

The Estadio BBVA Stadium in Monterrey, Mexico, is gearing up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Furthermore, Monterrey is about to get new high-end hotels such as MS Milenium, Live Aqua, and Thompson.  So, Monterrey will be a key element if Mexico wants to seize the opportunity of a sports tourism boom in the global landscape.  Furthermore, Monterrey is the capital of the state of Nuevo León, which has been experiencing a massive tourism boost in the last few years.  In 2024, the number of tourists to Monterrey shot up to 15 million, which was 250% more than the 4.3 million tourist visits in 2021. “We have worked tirelessly for the past three years to position Nuevo León in the world through strategic actions and the implementation of key projects,” Martínez said at a press conference on Tuesday. “Our vision has been clear: to turn the state of Nuevo León into a benchmark for national and international tourism.”Mari Carmen Martínez Villarreal, Tourism Minister, Nuevo León However, despite the best efforts and the changing scenarios, the question, “Is Monterrey Mexico safe?” still persists.  In this Tour and Travel blog, we will discuss is it safe to travel to Monterrey Mexico and how safe Monterrey is for living.  How Safe Is Monterrey Mexico For Traveling?  Let’s begin the discussion of Monterrey as a travel destination with the Mexico Travel Advisory issued by the Bureau of Consular Affairs, the U.S. Department of State, on September 6, 2024.  The advisory asks U.S. government employees and U.S. travelers in Mexico to travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey only in the daylight.  Furthermore, U.S. government employees must travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey with prior authorization.  Also, recent research on " Is Monterrey Mexico Safe” has shown that the crimes in Monterrey touch the daily lives of the residents, so they can impact travelers.  Further, the war against drugs that started in the city in 2006 has caused a rise in aggression and criminal activities such as robberies and homicides.  We must not forget that in September 2023, twelve mutilated corpses were found1 in Monterrey as a result of a drug cartel conflict.  Overall, during the span from 1994 to 2023, there has been a significant rise in the number of deaths due to criminal activities in Monterrey. In 2021, the number was the highest, reaching 12,380.  Again, as of February 2024, domestic violence was the most common crime in Monterrey. Thievery and drug dealing are two other common crimes in Monterrey.  Is Monterrey Mexico Safe For Tourists? Understanding The Common Crimes In Monterrey Here are the most common types of crimes in Monterrey, Mexico.  Domestic Violence Theft Drug Dealing Property Crimes Robbery and Assault Motorcycle Theft Cartel Activity Traffic Violations and Accidents Among all these crimes, the high crime rate of 62.11 for assault and armed robbery can be a serious concern for tourists. Again, the vandalism and theft rate of 55.27 raises questions about the safety of travelers in Monterrey. Having said that, the increase in crimes in Monterrey over the last five years has been moderate, with a score of 52.67. The level of crime in the city is 59.04.  Overall, the crime index of Monterry is 48.12, and the safety index is 51.88. So, Monterrey is a moderately safe place for tourists these days. Is Monterrey, Mexico, Safe At Night? With the Sun going down, Monterrey raises some serious concerns about travelers’ safety. At the same time, the safety rating of travelers walking alone in Monterrey is 78.56.  During the night, the same rating goes down to 37.78.  So, despite Monterrey having a vibrant nightlife with places such as San Pedro and Barrio Antiguo as the epicenters, you must practice some caution while exploring Monterrey at night.  It is best if you take a Uber or app cab with the best safety features to mover around the city at night.  Safety Tips You Must Follow While Traveling To Monterrey Here are some personal safety precautions you must observe while traveling to Monterrey.  Research well and stay updated about the places you want to explore. Avoid boarding unlicensed taxis. Use app cabs. Be careful about your personal belongings and dress moderately. Adhere to local regulations and customs.  Keep digital and physical copies of important documents. Register your trip with the right authorities.  Is Monterrey Mexico Safe? Safe Places To Travel In Monterrey, Mexico  Monterrey has many safe and exciting places for tourists. These are the places you can safely visit during your trip to Monterrey. PlacesWhy Visit?San Pedro Garza GarciaVisit San Pedro Garza Garcia if you love history. It was once one of the most popular ports in the USA. Chipinque Ecological ParkIt is an amazing reserve by the mountains. It is also ideal for mountain biking and hiking. MARCO Art MuseumMARCO Art Museum is the go-to place for connoisseurs interested in contemporary arts. Cola de Caballo WaterfallWith a height of 25 m, this waterfall in Nuevo León is a beautiful place to hang out. Cerro de la Silla MountainA part of the Sierra Madre Oriental system, Cerro de la Silla Mountain is a popular hiking and trekking destination in Monterrey.  Is Monterrey A Good Place To Live? With a low cost of living and high healthcare and climate indexes, Monterrey is a decent place to live in.  Here are the key parameters and their ratings. ParametersIndex RatingSafety Index51.88Health Care Index68.82Cost of Living Index41.70Traffic Commute Time Index32.09 Monterrey is home to some of the most important industrial and economic zones in Mexico. The city has all modern amenities and infrastructure. Furthermore, it is safer than many other cities in Mexico. So, Is Monterrey Mexico Safe? How The Montmerry Government Putting The Best Efforts  The Monterrey government has taken various security and law enforcement measures, regulatory reforms, and community engagement initiatives to lower the crime rate in Monterrey.  The table below gives you a detailed idea about is Monterrey Mexico safe or not and how the government is planning to combat the safety concerns.  Law Enforcement and Stronger Security MeasuresReforms in Criminal JusticeCommunity Engagement and Preventive Measures• Connecting business and hotels with law enforcement through rapid response systems• Training security officers according to the US Embassy standards• Use of technology in surveillance and gathering evidence• Increased presence of police and military• Making public trials• Identifying the weaknesses in the criminal justice system• Community programs to eliminate the root causes of crimes, including poverty and lack of opportunities• Establishing hotel security communities• Bolstering surveillance and safety measures in popular tourist areas So, the government is trying to change the fabric of the city with the right implementation of community development and stronger security measures.  Is Monterrey Mexico Safe? Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. How Safe Is Monterrey Mexico Right Now? Monterrey Mexico is moderately safe right now. It has a crime rate of 48.12 and a safety index of 51.88. 2. What Is The Safest City In Mexico? Mérida is the safest city in Mexico. As the capital of the Yucatán state, it has a low crime rate. Further, the friendly locals here make it the best place to live and travel in Mexico. 3. Do They Speak English In Monterrey Mexico? Yes, most people speak English in Monterrey. It is an international business center in Mexico and it is close to the U.S. border.  4. Where Do Rich People Live In Monterrey? The rich people of Monterrey live in San Pedro Garza García. It has high-rise buildings, upscale shopping destinations, and affluent neighborhoods.  5. Is Mexico Safe For Indian Tourists? The Embassy of India in Mexico considers Mexico “reasonably safe” for Indian tourists. However, it asks travelers to stay careful about crimes such as snatching and pickpocketing.  6. Is There A Warning About Traveling To Mexico? Yes, there has been a warning from the U.S. State Department about increasing cases of violent and drug-related problems in Mexico. Robberies, kidnapping, and carjacking are other areas of crime raising concerns among the travel advisories of various countries.  7. Do I Need A Visa For Mexico? Your requirements for a Visa to travel to Mexico depend on your nationality. For example, the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Canada, and other members of the Schengen Area do not need a visa to visit Mexico if the visitor has a valid visa or residence permit.  8. Is It Safe To Drive To Monterrey Mexico? Yes, driving in Monterrey Mexico is safe if you stay on the toll roads. These roads are patrolled by military personnel. So, crime rates are low on these roads.  Read Next... Unmasking The Most Dangerous Cities In Mexico These Are The 30+ Things To Do In Mexico City That You Must Try! Here Are The 25+ Best Hotels In Mexico City That You Must Visit!

BY  Abdul Aziz Sep 26, 2020

When you first visit the beautiful region of Puerto Vallarta in Mexico, you will ask yourself a simple question- Why didn’t I come here before? The tropical paradise boasts of some of the world’s most exotic and undiscovered beaches. Its clear white shorelines and the tranquil blue waters make it straight out some Hollywood A-List movie. However, places like Puerto Vallarta have never marketed themselves as other overrated places in the Mediterranean have. In this article, we are going to extensively review that paradise situated in the Bahia de Banderas- Puerto Vallarta. We are going to shed some light on its major attractions. In addition, we will layout some reasons as to why you should consider traveling to Puerto Vallarta on your next vacation. Puerto Vallarta: What you need to know The region of Puerto Vallarta is located on the Pacific Ocean and has at its boundary the Sierra Madre Mountain. Puerto Vallarta has been consistently rated as one of Mexico’s top family vacation destinations. You can say that this is a Resort City and has numerous tourist attractions. Puerto Vallarta lies bang on the Banderas Bay and is closely situated from Nueva Vallarta, another promising and fun resort city. The world-famous Aquaventuras Park is also situated in Puerto Vallarta. The Park is also located in close proximity to Nueva Vallarta. Many people think that Puerto Vallarta is all about the beach. Yes, there is no doubt that the beach is one of the major attractions. However, there is more to the city than the beach. For example, you can choose to spend time in the amazing water park, Aquaventuras. You can also go hiking and explore the rich mountains and forest areas. Puerto Vallarta is a highly colorful Bohemian town having a strong colonial heritage. You will find colorful walls, friendly people, and great local cuisine wherever you go. List of Main Attractions at Puerto Vallarta Activities in Puerto Vallarta are endless. In this section, we are going to discuss some of the major ones, which you should definitely try if you visit. 1. Swimming with the Dolphins- One of the major reasons, thousands of tourists visit this gem of a place is because if offers swimming with the dolphins. You can interact with them, pet them, catch their tricks, and even swim with them in the open waters. This is a truly magical experience, especially for kids who fall in love with these magical beings every single time. 2. Hiking in the Sierra Madre Mountains- If you really want to explore nature and work out, you should definitely try hiking on the Sierra Madre Mountains. You can even do mountain biking if you are so interested or enjoy a leisurely horse ride to the top of the mountains. There are also many eco-tours conducted by locals, which showcase the rich flora and fauna of the region on a hiking tour. 3. Shopping Paradise- We are all guilty of indulging in some shopping whenever we travel. If you are like one of us, Puerto Vallarta has you covered. The bohemian paradise boasts of a number of shops selling everything from clothes to artifacts. However, you need to be careful and be willing to bargain if you want to strike a good deal with locals. 4. Marine Shows- Being located on the Banderas Bay and the Pacific Ocean means that Puerto Vallarta sees a lot of marine action and wildlife. From whales migrating to wild dolphins swimming along the coastlines, you can catch them all from the safety of your boat. You can also go scuba diving and explore the underwater reefs and aquatic life. 5. Golfing Activity- If you are someone who wants to go golfing on your next vacation. Puerto Vallarta has you covered. The region boasts some of the most exotic golf parks nestled between mountains and the coastline. You can surely take some time out and go golfing with your buddies if you are traveling with friends or colleagues. What precautions you should take when traveling to Puerto Vallarta? Whenever we travel to any new destination, it is important that we take certain precautions. Travel experts suggest that tourists should take the following ones when traveling to Puerto Vallarta- Always consumer bottled or mineral water in packaged form even if you are eating at local restaurants. Do not carry a lot of cash on you at any point in It is always better to carry a separate debit or a credit card with limited finances. Try to book your stay from authentic and credible travel platforms. You can also directly contact the hotels and book from them. Never try to book a local tour guide for your own safety. Ask the hotel or the resort to appoint one for you who is listed and registered. Do not go off your itinerary even if you are suggested of the same by a local. Visiting off-beat places should be something, you should look to avoid. You do not need to exchange your currency from USD into Pesos as most major hotels and restaurants accept dollars. You should always carry a copy of your official documents at all times. This can also include a photocopy of your Passport. As long as you are taking these precautions, you will be able to enjoy your vacation in Puerto Vallarta without any troubles. This list of precautions is something, which should be followed at all places, no matter where you visit. The Final Word Swim with dolphins in Puerto Vallarta can be one of the most memorable experiences of your life. However, Puerto Vallarta offers something for everyone. From great golf estates to a shopper’s paradise, you can soak up the different sights and sounds of Puerto Vallarta. In terms of the expenses, Puerto Vallarta is definitely much more affordable than any European city. Even if you compare the same to Hawaii, you will find that almost all the expenses are way cheaper. This is why in the last few years, many families are abandoning vacations in the Caribbean islands and heading out to this scenic paradise in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Read Also: What Can You Expect From The New Year’s In Mexico

BY  Ankita May 24, 2024

Cancun is probably one of the most beautiful places on Earth that you have never heard of. However, if this is your first time hearing the name Cancun, then there’s nothing to worry about. I am certain that once you learn the history of Cancun, you will be willing to immediately pack your bags and head to this 21st-century paradise on Earth! Cancun is a part of the Yucatan Peninsula, and is also one of its most popular tourist hubs. The primary reason why you would want to go there is its white sandy beaches and clear blue seas. They are a spectacle to watch during sunrise or sunset! However, what do you know about Cancun History? Once people started learning about its history, Cancun’s tourism doubled. This prompted the Mexican government to transform this place from a dilapidated fishing village to Mexico’s most famous tourist attraction. Therefore, before you ultimately go and visit this place (I know you want to), read this post till the end! Ancient Origins: The Mayan Footprint in Cancun History Before you visit Cancun for its dreamy-white beaches and crystal-blue shores, you must learn about the history of Cancun first. Before this small Mexican town became one of the most popular tourist destinations, it was an important Mayan city. home to its vibrant and tragic history. Cancun was an important Mayan city. thanks to its location, which facilitated both marine trade and agriculture.  Therefore, the history of Cancun is intertwined with these ancient practices that delineated its early development. Among the testimonies of this great civilization are several archaeological sites that you can still visit today. El Rey, located in the heart of the hotel zone, was probably a ceremonial and trade center crucial for the interaction between different points of the Yucatan peninsula. Its ruins, though modest compared to other Maya sites, offer a direct glimpse into the region's pre-Columbian past. Further north, El Meco played an important role in Maya navigation and maritime trade. Located on what is now the mainland across from Isla Mujeres, El Meco was a key point on Maya trade routes, which is reflected in its imposing structures and pyramid, which still dominates the landscape. One of the most important recreational activities in Cancun is an Aquatour. This activity has been prevalent since the Classic Mayan Age. It’s also known as catamaran tours to Isla Mujeres in modern times. Moreover, its Mayan influence will attract you - which you will see everywhere. From its cuisine, architecture, handicrafts, and even its festivals - everything has a Mayan flavor to it. This is because the same existed thousands of years ago as well! Therefore, this cultural legacy enriches the experience of each visitor, connecting them with the history of Cancun. Cancun Transformation: From Fishing Village To Tourist Paradise Before it became one of the most popular tourist hubs in Mexico, it was a small and peaceful fishing village. It had very few visitors before the 1980s and was a quiet Mayan town full of fisherman and their families. However, when the government of Mexico decided to focus more on tourism, it set its eyes on Cancun’s beautiful beaches. Since then, the government invested a lot in developing this city, making it a Mayan paradise on Earth. This soon became a turning point in the history of Cancun, marking a period of massive transformation. Soon, Cancun became a famous destination for tourists from all over the world, no longer being a desolate fishing village. Therefore, the Fondo Nacional de Fomento al Turismo (FONATUR) program was initiated in 1970. Its aim was to bring rapid development and turn Cancun from a Mayan fishing village to a global tourist hotspot. With a clear vision and state financing, the government built the first tourism infrastructure. The first hotels, roads, and basic services sprang up, whereas before, there was only vegetation and deserted beaches. This rapid development not only altered the physical landscape of Cancun but also boosted the local and regional economy. The arrival of investment and tourists generated jobs, attracted more businesses, and put Cancun on the road to becoming what it is today: one of the world's top tourist destinations. Finally, in just a few decades, Cancun became an urban wonder drenched in rich Mayan history and culture. Best Activities In Cancun Before visiting ths place, you must learn more about the history of Cancun. Therefore, you must take part in various beach activities. These activities have been prevalent since the Mayan ages and showcase the deep history of Cancun. Moreover, they act as a testament to how its culture can be found in modern-day Cancun. Therefore, some of the best activities for tourists in Cancun are: 1. The Mayan Ruins Of Tulum, Coba, And Chichen Itza While you will not find these ruins directly inside the geographical boundaries of Cancun, many tourists will eventually make it to these famous Mayan ruins because they are in Cancun’s neighbouring cities. Therefore, add the Mayan ruins of Tulum, Cob, and the legendary Chichen Itza to your itinerary! 2. Snorkeling And Scuba Diving Since you will visit the beaches of Cancun, can you stop yourself from participating in the water sports of Cancun? Of course not! When you visit the beaches of Cancun, you can either go snorkeling or scuba diving. Moreover, there are underwater swims as well that let you swim alongside whale sharks, dolphins, and even sea lions! 3. Tulum Express Tour The Tulum Express Tour is a must for anyone visiting Cancun. On this full-day tour, you will be unraveling a lot about the deep Mayan history of Cancun. Moreover, you will be visiting some Mayan ruins along the ancient Riviera Maya. In addition, you will also get lunch and visit the top of the magnificent Tulum Tower as well! Conclusion: Cancun, A Caribbean Paradise Today, Cancun is one of the best tourist destinations in the world. From exciting beaches, tours, tours in Catamarca, exciting night parties, and the interesting and vibrant history of Cancun, this tourist destination simply has it all. A very famous activity is exploring the famous Nichupte Lagoon, a small mangrove embraced by the Cancun Hotel Zone. Moreover, it has a connection to the wonderful Caribbean Sea. Additionally, Aquatours offers a variety of tours that you can enjoy in the company of your loved ones. Therefore, take advantage and experience the magic of exploring the mangroves from Cancun to Isla Mujeres! Learn More About: 12 Things That Everyone Should Try In Mexico Mexico’s Top 4 Most Dangerous Cities For 2024: Data Repor Plan The Perfect Proposal: Romantic Yacht Charters In Cancun