Is Yucatan Worth Visiting? Honest Perspective From A POC!

Q: Is Yucatan safe for solo female travelers?

Yes , Yucatan is generally safe for solo female travelers. The region is known for its safety, making it an ideal destination for women traveling alone. However, it is always important to exercise caution and follow basic safety precautions, just as you would in any other destination. It is advisable to avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, stay aware of your surroundings, and trust your instincts.

A woman sitting on sand near pink water.

During the summer, my husband and I, (both black) embarked on an unforgettable trip to Yucatan.

While we did face moments of racism, I want to assure you that overall, we had an amazing time. We were able to see the incredible Chichen Itza, go swimming in the clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico, and explore the beautiful pink lakes of Las Coloradas.

If you’re wondering if is Yucatan worth visiting and investing your time and money in, in short, my answer is yes. As a person of color, I understand the concerns and uncertainties when traveling to foreign places. So I will share my personal experience when visiting Yucatan, taking into account the history, price point, adventures, safety, and racism it holds.

For instance, the time I was the first one to arrive at a restaurant, but still was the last one to be seated. It’s these moments that remind us of the challenges people of color sometimes face. Even though there are some downsides, the positive experiences outweigh the negatives, and every aspect is a crucial part of the journey.

Whether you’re a person of color seeking a destination that understands and embraces diversity, or simply someone curious about what Yucatan has to offer, this post is open to everyone. And I hope it helps you discover whether Yucatan is the perfect destination for you.

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What Is A POC?

A POC, or Person Of Color, is someone who identifies as a member of a racial or ethnic group that isn’t White. This term is often used to talk about individuals who face discrimination and systemic barriers because of their race or ethnicity.

POCs come from diverse backgrounds and have their own unique experiences, but they all share the common experience of being marginalized due to their race. The term POC is commonly used when discussing diversity, equality, and inclusion in society.

Why You May or May Not Visit Yucatan!

A view of the ocean with blue water and a blue sky.

Racism

During my visit to Yucatan Mexico, I encountered both positive and negative experiences. Overall, it was a wonderful trip filled with cultural immersion and breathtaking sights, but two instances of racism left a sour taste in my mouth.

Instance One:

The first encounter happened when my husband and I decided to have dinner at a nice restaurant. We arrived just as they were opening for dinner, but the staff seemed unprepared and disorganized. Despite this, we were seated in a waiting section and told that it would only be a few minutes before we could be brought into the dining area.

However, as time passed, around 9 others (around 4 groups) arrived and were also seated in the same section. To our surprise, they were all brought back into the dining area one by one while we were left waiting for almost 30 minutes.

As we watched each group being called in, my husband and I couldn’t help but exchange looks of confusion and frustration. It was clear that we had been skipped over despite arriving first and patiently waiting. We brushed it off and tried not to let it ruin our appetite, but it was still disheartening to experience such blatant discrimination.

Instance Two:

The second incident occurred during a visit to a cenote. As I stood in a crowd waiting for life jackets to be handed out by a lady, I noticed that everyone around me was receiving their jackets except for me. Despite having my hand out like everyone else, she continuously ignored me and gave jackets to those standing behind me even though we were standing face to face. It was clear that she saw me as well because we made eye contact multiple times.

I felt frustrated and confused as to why I was being treated differently from the others around me. Did she purposely ignore me because of my race? Or was it simply an oversight on her part? Regardless of the reason, it made me feel unwelcomed and uncomfortable in that moment.

Despite these negative encounters with racism during my time in Yucatan, I didn’t let it ruin my trip. I chose to brush it off and focus on the positive experiences I had in this beautiful country. However, it is disheartening to know that racism still exists in many parts of the world, and it serves as a reminder that there is still much work to be done toward promoting equality and acceptance.

A woman posing in front of a stone structure.

Safety

When people think “Is Yucatan worth visiting” safety is the thought that comes to many minds. I read beforehand that this part of Mexico was very safe, and I do agree. I felt safe throughout my entire trip to Yucatan.

Yucatan is known for being one of the safest states in Mexico. This can be attributed to several factors such as its strong economy, well-developed infrastructure, and effective law enforcement. The state has a low crime rate and is actively working towards maintaining a safe environment for tourists and locals alike.

Merida, the capital city of Yucatan, is also considered to be one of the safest cities in Mexico. It has even been named as the “safest city in Latin America” multiple times by various publications. The city’s government has implemented numerous initiatives to ensure the safety of its residents and visitors.

One of the things that stood out to me during my stay in Merida was how dimly lit the streets were at night compared to what I am used to back home. However, this did not affect my overall feeling of security. My husband and I simply made sure to stick together when going out at night and followed common travel precautions like avoiding dark alleyways or carrying valuables with us. Things we do when traveling anywhere.

Budget-friendly

Another reason why Yucatan is worth visiting is because it is incredibly budget-friendly. Making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to save money without sacrificing their experience. From affordable accommodations to cheap eats, Yucatan offers a range of options that won’t break the bank.

For reference, I spent 4 days here and was pleasantly surprised by how far my money went. Unlike other popular tourist destinations, where prices can quickly add up, Yucatan offers reasonable rates without compromising on quality.

Just to give you an idea, my husband and I managed to have an amazing trip in Yucatan for under 2k! We were on a budget but still wanted to make the most out of our vacation. I was happy to achieve that goal.

A woman in a white dress walking on a beach with pink water.

History

One of the main reasons why Yucatan is worth visiting is because it holds some of the best cenotes in the world. Cenotes are natural sinkholes formed by collapsed limestone bedrock, exposing crystal-clear pools of water underneath.

These cenotes were considered sacred by the Mayans and were often used for rituals and ceremonies. Today, they offer visitors a unique opportunity to swim in refreshing waters surrounded by stunning natural landscapes.

Additionally, Yucatan is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World – Chichen Itza. This ancient city was once the center of Mayan civilization and serves as a remarkable testament to their architectural and mathematical achievements. Visitors can explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn about its fascinating history through guided tours.

Apart from Chichen Itza, there are numerous other archaeological sites scattered throughout Yucatan that offer insight into the ancient Mayan culture. From Tulum’s cliff-top ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea to Uxmal’s well-preserved structures adorned with intricate carvings, each site tells its own unique story.

Adventure

Yucatan is a destination that offers endless opportunities for adventure. From zip-lining to snorkeling, there is something for everyone in this beautiful region. One of the main draws is its pristine beaches near Merida, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters.

There are so many Yucatan bucket list activities that you can see and do. Snorkeling is also a popular activity in Yucatan, with great marine life and colorful coral reefs waiting to be explored. If you prefer to stay on land, there are numerous hiking trails that lead to breathtaking vistas and ancient ruins scattered throughout the region.

I’ve mentioned earlier that the most famous site is Chichen Itza, a bucket list destination for many travelers. The journey from Merida to Chichen Itza is short and well worth it, as long as you take the time to explore other nearby attractions.

FAQs

How many days should I spend in Yucatan?

When planning a trip to Yucatan, the number of days you should spend depends on the specific activities and destinations you want to explore. However, it is generally recommended to allocate at least four to ten days to fully experience the beauty and richness of the region.

This timeframe allows you to visit iconic Mayan ruins such as Chichen Itza and Uxmal, the major city of Merida, relax on the stunning beaches of Tulum or Playa del Carmen, and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of cenotes and biosphere reserves.

Is Yucatan safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Yucatan is generally safe for solo female travelers. The region is known for its safety, making it an ideal destination for women traveling alone.

However, it is always important to exercise caution and follow basic safety precautions, just as you would in any other destination. It is advisable to avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, stay aware of your surroundings, and trust your instincts.

What is the crime rate in Yucatan Mexico?

Yucatan Mexico boasts a relatively low crime rate compared to many other popular tourist destinations. According to the latest statistics, the overall crime rate in Yucatan is significantly below the national average for Mexico. With a crime index of only 25.3% in Merida, and the national average for Mexico 53.78%. Yucatan is considered one of the safest states in the country.

Final Thoughts-

After exploring the Yucatan region, it’s clear that it offers a wealth of adventures and experiences worth visiting. While I addressed concerns regarding racism and safety, it’s important to note that personal expertise can still lead to a fulfilling trip.

Despite encountering some instances of racism, I was able to make the most out of my visit and create lasting memories. I think Yucatan is worth visiting and a destination worth considering for its unique blend of history, safety, natural beauty, and thrilling adventures.

Happy exploring!

What Are My Recommended Resources For Planning A Trip?

When planning my trip, I use my trusted trio of CheapOair, Viator, and Booking.com to provide a comprehensive solution for everything I need.

CheapOair is a go-to resource for affordable flight tickets. With its extensive network of over 600 airlines, it offers a wide array of choices, enabling you to easily compare prices and select the best deal that suits your budget and travel schedule.

Viator on the other hand, is an excellent platform for booking tours and activities. It provides access to thousands of sightseeing tours, attractions, and events in over 1,500 locations worldwide. It ensures you don’t miss out on the unique experiences each destination has to offer.

Booking.com is your reliable partner for accommodations. With over 28 million listings including hotels, apartments, and hostels, you can find the perfect place to stay that fits your budget and preference.

Together, these platforms make trip planning convenient, cost-effective, and fun. They ensure you have everything you need, from flights and accommodations to activities – at your fingertips.

Check Out My Resources Page For All My Recommended Travel Tools!

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