How safe is the Yucatán region?

[gentlesea]

Would love some winter sun. Flying to Cancun and travelling around the Yucatán region sounds appealing but I've heard conflicting things about the safety there. It seems the general advice is if you stick to your resort you'll be fine but I've never been a resort type of girl and I would be travelling solo. Anyone been recently? I know Spanish so I think that will help a lot.

Yucatan's probably the safest part of the country. I had a ball driving solo from Cancun to Mérida.

We were there a few years ago and no issues at all! They basically said most of mexico is fine, just stick to the main roads.
We did tour around and never had any issues.

Plus if your Spanish is good you're all set, OP. It's such a great country to explore. And then also there's the Yucatan railway running from next year as well.

Wow, I had no idea about this new train line! Looks like it should be running by time I was planning on going.

Any recommendations for places to visit @Stakhanovite and @Knitgoodwoman?

Holbox island is a little bit off the beaten track but v cool. Mérida is really having a moment and close to the wonderful Uxmal ruins. Valladolid is a really pretty little town. South of Tulum, Bacalar is apparently amazing -- I haven't been yet. I still kind of love Tulum but it's Côte D'Azur prices and getting very developed.

Safe and beautiful. You'll have a great time.

Very. My BF and I came back last week and did most of the things/ places mentioned here. It is just stunning! Go and you will have a fabulous time!

Thanks all! Is it generally safe to walk around at night to get dinner? Not planning to stay out late or anything!

I didn't do a lot after dark, but felt pretty safe when I did.

I always felt safe alone sticking to well lit areas, same precautions as you’d take at home.
uber is easy to use and cheap if you prefer.

Absolutely fine. I cycled and camped around as a solo female and had no trouble

Yes pretty safe though there have been more security issues recently in Tulum, there is apparently a bit of a territorial battle going on. Not a major risk to tourists though I believe one was killed in crossfire in a bar in Tulum town recently. Tulum has the beach area and then the town is set back - you’ll be absolutely fine on the beach (though the prices may hurt!) just maybe check the latest on the security situation in the town itself before you go and just keep your wits about you if necessary? As a Spanish speaking experienced solo traveller you shouldn’t have any issues.

Bacalaar is amazing though be aware there are lots of crocs in the water and the locals don’t tell you for tourism reasons! Agree with others on Merida, Holbox etc.

You camped @professionalnomad?! That is very brave!

Luckily Tulum doesn't appeal at all to me, @Pezdeoro41. It does seem like it's all kicking off there - it hasn't spread to the rest of the places in that area then?