One of the things we hear most often as travel advisors has nothing to do with passports, resorts, or flights. It’s fear.
“Is it safe there?”
“Would you go there yourself?”
“Aren’t you worried about traveling there?”
And honestly, these are valid questions. News coverage and social media can make the world feel scary at times. But one thing we always remind our clients is this: every travel decision is personal. Our role is never to pressure anyone into taking a trip they are uncomfortable with. Our role is to educate, guide, and share our own experiences so clients can make the best decision for themselves.
Over the years, there are a few concerns we hear again and again.
“I Don’t Want to Go to Mexico…It Isn’t Safe”
This is probably one of the most common comments we hear. The reality is that we personally have never felt unsafe in Mexico. We stay aware of our surroundings, use reputable transfer companies, stay at quality resorts, and book excursions with trusted guides.
Yes, there are times you may see police or military presence, including officers carrying guns. But honestly, we often view that as reassurance that security is there to protect both locals and tourists.
Could something happen while traveling? Unfortunately, yes. But that is true anywhere in the world, including in the United States. There are places domestically where we personally would feel less comfortable than we do at many resorts and destinations in Mexico.
That said, if a client does not feel comfortable traveling to Mexico, we completely respect that decision. Travel should feel exciting, not stressful.
“I Heard You Get Sick in Punta Cana”
Another concern we hear often is about food, water, or drinks in Punta Cana and other Caribbean destinations.
Most major resorts use purified water systems, and bottled water is readily available. We also remind travelers that dehydration, heat, rich foods, and sugary alcoholic drinks can make anyone feel sick, no matter where they are vacationing.
We have traveled to Punta Cana numerous times and have never personally had issues. Thousands of travelers visit every single day and return home with wonderful memories.
But if someone is nervous about traveling there, that is okay too. Every traveler has different comfort levels and experiences.
“There Are Too Many Plane Crashes…I Don’t Want to Fly”
Fear of flying is incredibly common, especially with how quickly news spreads today. When incidents happen, they are heavily covered, which can make flying feel far more dangerous than it statistically is.
The truth is, there are more car accidents every single day than plane accidents. Yet most of us get into a car without a second thought.
That does not mean someone’s fear is irrational. Fear is personal. Some people simply are not comfortable flying, and we would never push them to do something that causes anxiety or fear.
“I Don’t Want to Get Sick on a Cruise”
Cruise ships also tend to make headlines whenever illnesses spread onboard. But viruses can spread anywhere people gather…schools, offices, hotels, sporting events, or classrooms.
We personally have been on many cruises, as have countless clients, without any widespread illness issues. Cruise lines also have extensive sanitation and cleaning procedures in place.
Would we cruise again? Absolutely.
But again, if someone does not feel comfortable cruising, there are countless other vacation options available.
Travel Is Personal
At the end of the day, travel is not one-size-fits-all. Some people love adventure and stepping outside their comfort zones. Others prefer destinations that feel more familiar or closer to home. Neither is wrong.
As travel advisors, our job is not to convince people to take trips they do not want to take. Our job is to listen, guide, educate, and help clients choose vacations that fit their comfort level and travel style.
We simply encourage people not to let fear, headlines, or social media completely close the door on seeing this beautiful world. There is so much out there to experience, and some of the most incredible memories happen when people allow themselves to explore beyond what they see on the news.
The world is still full of beauty, culture, kindness, and unforgettable experiences…and we feel lucky every day to help people discover it 💛
JZW Travel Blog 