Mexico is considered a fairly safe place for tourists who are greatly valued by the government and every effort is made to avoid any inconveniences. Towns straddling the US-Mexico border are most renowned for being dangerous, however, southern destinations like Oaxaca are much calmer. Safety in Mexico can generally be ensured by keeping your wits about you and little bit of foreward thinking.

Safety in Mexico: Oaxaca Protests

A cause of concern for many people planning a trip to Oaxaca is the recent political protests which have lead to riots in the city. Whilst 2006 was punctuated with demonstrations which escalated into violent fighting between the townspeople and governmental paramilitary forces, since November 2006 demonstrations have been perfectly calm. Oaxaca has now been deemed as having returned to normality and visitors are being encouraged to visit without having to worry for their safety. Nonetheless, it is always wirth keeping an eye on the news and traveller forums prior to going, on the offchance that anything has kicked off again. Follow the link for a detailed history of the Oaxaca Protests.

Safety in Mexico: Health Issues

Water
To avoid any unwanted tummy troubles always drink bottled water in Mexico (including when brushing your teeth) and be sure to request drinks without ice.
Pharmacies ('Farmacias')
There are plenty of pharmacies scattered all over the city centre so you shouldn't need to look very hard. Here is a list of some of the most central Oaxaca pharmacies to ensure your safety in Mexico:
Farmacias Americana
Address: Pino Suárez 704
Tel: 01 (951) 516 1474

Farmacia Especializada
Address: Emiliano Zapata 316
Tel: 01 (951) 513 6377

Farmacia Profesional
Address: Aldama 304
Tel: 01 (951) 516 1698

Hospitals
Foreign visitors are better off heading to one of Oaxaca's Prviate Hospitals in the case of emergency where many doctors are English speaking and service is very good:

Hospital Carmen
Address: Abasolo 215
Tel: 01 (951) 516 0027

Hospital Reforma
Address: Reforma 613
Tel: 01 (951) 516 0989

Clínica Diana
Address: Símbolos Patrios 747
Tel: 01 (951) 514 3690

Emergency Services
Fire, Ambulance and Police: 066

Safety in Mexico: Money and Useful Contacts

Common sense can avoid any unwanted situations when in Oaxaca. Your safety in Mexico can be ensured by being especially careful with your money.

• Always keep your valuables in a money belt worn underneath your clothes
• Do not carry unnecessary amounts of money around with you - just what you need for that day
• Take extra care when using ATM's and try to use them in busy areas during daylight hours
• City centres, beaches and buses are especially rife with pickpockets so hold on to your belongings

Cancelling Credit Cards
Ring the following numbers toll-free to report and cancel lost or stolen cards:
American Express: 001 800 268 9824
Mastercard: 001 800 307 7309
Visa: 001 800 847 2911

Useful Oaxaca Contact Details

Municipal Tourist Office
Address: Corner García Vigil and Independencia
Open daily 10am-7pm

Ceprotur (Tourist Protection Centre)
Address: Murguía 206
Tel: 01 (951) 514 2155

Post Office
Address: Alameda de León
Open Mon-Friday 8am-7pm and Saturday 9am-1pm