Travel Solo to Mexico

 Solo Travel to Mexico

Story by Jim Foreman

For many, the thought of solo travel to Mexico is inconceivable.  This perception probably has more to do with one’s personality than any real obstacle.  True, the news media continues to pump fear and anger wrapped in misinformation 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  To keen observers, this ongoing strategy serves to keep viewers isolated and easily manipulated.  

Fear is the greatest obstacle to happiness and success.  These words are echoed in one form or another by The Dalai Lama, Paulo Coelho, Tony Robbins, Joy Page, Mark Twain, and hundreds more.  With the philosophy lesson out of the way, let’s continue with solo travel to Mexico.

Of course, there’s nothing wrong with traveling as a couple, friends, or a group of friends.  Each form of travel carries its unique rewards.

There are many reasons and why one may desire to travel solo.  Equally, several personalities thrive while traveling solo.

Why People Travel Solo

Often, the most prominent reason people travel solo is a significant change in one’s personal life.  Perhaps it’s a breakup, divorce, death, or leaving a long-held job.  Whatever the cause, there is a strong urge to rediscover oneself in the process.  

Traveling solo frees one from constantly trying to make someone else happy. Continually trying to entertain someone is difficult enough at home.  Doing so abroad is much more challenging.  Gone are all the familiar locations and experiences.  When you’re alone, one only has to decide what will bring the most joy to themselves for the day.  Feel like tacos for breakfast, lunch, and dinner one day?  No problem.  One can choose anything that fits the mood. Maybe you feel like a concert or going out to an event? You get the picture. 

Solo travel, in these cases, helps to discover or rediscover passions, likes, and emotions that may be long-dormant.  It’s made much more alive by being in a place where you have to learn and utilize different languages, customs, and protocols. 

The best part about this kind of travel is that you are open and free to do whatever you want.  Make new friends, change plans, develop a romance, or simply do something you’ve never done before. 

How does Mexico fit into all of this?  Mexico is a perfect destination for ‘life-changed’ solo travelers. 

If this describes your current situation, there are some ideal destinations to consider.  For starters, there are the seaside towns of La Paz, Mazatlán, Puerta Vallarta, and Merida.  These are perfect places to immerse yourself in a different culture and even come back with tan lines.

If you’re more interested in colonial history and authentic Mexican Culture, consider the cities of Zacatecas, Guanajuato, Bernal, and Taxco.  These cities will surprise and reward visitors with tremendous history, beautiful locations, amazing people, and soul-enriching experiences.

Adventurers and Free Spirits

A tiny group of travelers that make up adventurers and free spirits.  Since they often gravitate toward each other, the numbers seem much larger, but in truth, they make up an infinitesimal percentage of travelers to Mexico. 

Kelly's blog, "The Wandering Blonde" talks extensively about solo travel in Mexico.

For this breed of travelers, a whim and a direction is all that is needed to embark on a wonderful journey.  Curiously, This group is made up, almost equally, of men and women.  Yes, you heard me correctly. Women make up half of the solo travelers through Mexico.  When it comes to adventuring or roaming at one’s pleasure, the ages are just as diverse.  Individuals from 18-80 are living the life of their choosing traveling through Mexico.
If rugged adventure and remote destinations are your pleasure, consider Batopilas, Morelia, San Cristobal de la Casas, and Durango.  For a more learned or awe-inspiring wonder, there’s Monterrey, Queretaro, Xilitla, and Creel.

Additional Thoughts

Mexico is a warm and inviting destination for solo travel, despite what the news media fear mongers say.  So long as you’re respectful and not chasing drugs or questionable sex partners, you’ll find warmth and hospitality. 

Make friends, lots of friends. Don’t be cheap, but don’t be flashy either.  Traveling by car or motorcycle is ideal.  Stay at hotels or rent an apartment in places that you find fascinating.  That way, you’re light, mobile, and able to experience life as it happens.  

Solo travelers are discouraged from taking RVs.  They’re near impossible to get anywhere worthwhile.  Moreover, they limit you to RV parks on the outskirts of town. 

Author Jim Foreman with his BMW S 1000 XR 'Tempest' in Bahia de Los Angeles, BC

Travel by a reliable car or motorcycle that you can get easily serviced in Mexico.  Connect with locals and don’t have too detailed of a plan.  Be flexible and open to serendipity.  You’ll get rewarded with unexpected joys, dear friends, and a greater appreciation for our great southern neighbor.

Traveling to Mexico solo or with others is easy.  Make sure you have a passport and Mexican Insurance before you go.  Get your Tourist Visa and Temporary Vehicle Import Permit at the border and have an amazing time.  

Jim Foreman is the owner and operator of Authentic Moto Travels.  He's traveled Mexico extensively both solo and leading groups.