Hi everyone, I'll be visiting the Yucatan region of Mexico for the first time in a few weeks. I'm visiting an old friend from college, and while I feel that I'll be safe while with her and her family, I must admit that I'm a little bit frightened about those moments, especially coming and going, when I'll be alone in the area. Is it safe for a woman to travel alone in this region, or should I take care to stay in when my friend and her family are at their jobs? Any practical safety information and advice about lone female travelers or about the region in general would be welcome.

Thanks,
Renee

You'll be fine. Honestly you're probably much more "at risk" (for whatever) in a large city in a first-world country. Traveling solo is better. ;)

I think if you exercise common sense you'll be fine. You know, let people know where you're going, don't flaunt any money, don't get drunk by yourself. It's good to have a lifeline in terms of calling options in case of trouble - have a cell phone and a calling card account (I'll vouch for onesuite) and have your friend's (and the local authories') numbers programmed into your phone or written down somewhere.

But really, common sense should serve you just fine.