While violent crime against visitors is rare in Mexico, petty crimes such as pick-pocketing and bag-snatching is prevalent in some regions. Always be vigilant of your surroundings and use common sense to lower any risks.

Authorities in Mexico's popular tourist regions are very keen to stamp out trouble, often with strategies to avoid reoccurrences in the future. Mexico's main beach towns, resorts and colonial cities are safe places to visit with only low crime.

Dress modestly to avoid attracting undue attention to yourself and most journeys through Mexico will be free of any trouble.

When hiring sporting equipment for parasailing, jet-skiing, scuba diving etc, make sure you get the equipment from a well-established, fully-qualified and locally-reputed firm.

Emergency numbers:

060 - Police
080 - Fire department and ambulances
078 - Highway emergencies
55 5250-0123 - Tourist security
55 5658-1111 - Information service Locatel

Always drink purified water such as bottled mineral water to avoid diseases such as typhoid.

Immunization isn't an absolute must when traveling to Mexico. It all depends on where you are planning to visit while in Mexico. Unless you hope to take jungle tours, visit places not well established or travel in remote, rural regions of Mexico, immunization isn't necessarily required.

If you are pregnant or traveling with children, it is best to avoid jungle areas.

Speak to your doctor about immunization and if required, be vaccinated against diseases such as tetanus, diphtheria, measles, hepatitis A, typhoid and rabies.

Most pharmacies in Mexico are open 24-hours a day. While some drugs can be purchased over the counter, others require a doctor's prescription. Obtaining health insurance and travel insurance prior to visiting Mexico is recommended.