Giantaxe

Then don't stay in a "concrete complex". I stayed in an absolutely fabulous B&B in Mexico, for example. I f you do enough homework, you can usually pick a place where there are more pleasant alternatives.

Poppy girl

Most of the resorts and this is what friends have told me are like the Americans version of our Benidorm.

We will probably have to beg to differ on this one

Giantaxe

If you're talking about Cancun, then there are most definitely alternatives to concrete complexes. Just because most people end up in such places doesn't mean you have to. I have no knowledge of Tunisia.

Cape Blue

I've backpacked through Mexico a couple of times - once from Cancun - Merida - Campeche - Tikal (Guatemala) - Chichicastenango - Antigua. Second time was Cabo - La Paz - Los Mochis (via ferry) - Chihuahua (copper canyon rail).

I didn't feel any more threatened in Mexico than I did when I was south of Market last week (in fact a whole lot less). Guatemala was a very different vibe, mind.

Cancun didn't strike me as particularly dangerous - normal type of tourist city, probably full of spring break students at the moment.

N1cky

The reports by the US media blow things out of all proportion and it's killing the Mexico Tourist industry. Cancun, Cabos and the other resorts rely on holiday makers it's their main source of income, they are therefore working very hard to make sure these places are safe for tourists. Like all countries there are certain no go areas, these are not in Cancun though.

Go and enjoy your holiday.

EricK

Thanks everyone, seems like there should be no problems.

And regards concrete complexes - well yes I am staying in a resort, although it is not of the concrete bunker variety.

And regards why I would want to stay in a resort / complex, well I have travelled the world greatly, lived in India for a while, spent time in East Africa / Uganda / Asia and seen lots and lots of interesting cultural stuff, I still really enjoy that, however there are times where you want to do nothing more that lie on the beach for a week.........

Sally Redux

Have a great trip

Jerseygirl

If you take to wandering around the bad part of town in the early hours...it probably ups your chances somewhat.

matt28

Its rediculously safe.
I cant be bothered reading what everyone else has put, and with all due respect americans replying who cant bear the thought of being out of their own wonderful country, because they are small minded and brainwashed.
Its safe, I lived in the area for a long time.
the locals there know that tourism is their way of survival and wouldnt dream of harming you.
Believe it or not they actually love americans and British as much as they dont want you to think it, they believe we are better than them.
I live in Mexico and am married to a Mexican, I know what im talkin about.
Anyway stop worrying, enjoy your holiday, you will have the time of your life.
i do recommend visiting a town about 30 mins down the road called playa del carmen, bit quieter, lovely.
check out moms bar ran by a german guy.
have fun

Poppy girl

A man after my own heart, I have also traveled and lived all over the world in many countrys.....and yes to lay on a beach for a week sounds like heaven right now!

S Folinsky

Here is what the Department of State has to say in its travel advisory. FWIW, I was in Oaxaca in June 2006 for a wedding when there was a lot of demonstrations and a violent army action. It was quite noticable that us Gringos were either left alone or were given advice on where not to go.

It looks like Cancun will probably be OK.

meauxna

Too bad you couldn't be bothered, as all the naysayers on this thread are Brits (albeit, some naturalized US). This American didn't even bother arguing back against the danger claims because I'm busy renewing my passport after returning from Mexico last week (NOT a trip to Cancun or other resort town).

Giantaxe

Ah, but they are all Brits subjected to the jaundiced American media

Sally Redux

Actually it was just one sayer who nayed a number of times.

meauxna

What's your point? This somehow validates his incorrect statement?

Quotes should include Giantaxe's comment as well.. this is why conversation here is getting beyond tiresome. But I suppose it would be asking too much to ask you to skip over a single opportunity to make someone else look wrong, no matter how right they are, if they are from the 'other team'. Whatever that is to you, Sally.
If I thought you said it with even a hint of irony or friendliness, I wouldn't mind. But it's pretty clear that you don't & I'm done.