MEX Layover
 

After successfully avoiding them, I have some MEX layovers next month. Are they as bad as I hear/read about? Is the security/safety situation ok for tourists/crew provided common sense is used? Is there any food safe to eat in the Reforma area?

Thanks

It's pretty safe, just take your own precautions, don't go out looking like gringo tourist, just take some cash, and ID.
Look for the "Casa de Toño", good place for tipical local food.

Good God man... leave the country much? MMMX is a fantastic overnight. Amazing food, nice people, cheap drinks. The air pollution gets pretty bad sometimes, but quit living in your terrified little bubble. Just don't drink the tap water or hang out in any dark alleys. I'd be more afraid of MEM layovers.

This man speaks the absolute truth. I'd take MEX over MEM any day.

He just asked an honest question. No indication he is "living in a bubble."

I don't live in a bubble. But I fly with CA after CA who just tells horror stories about how they either got sick, almost vectored into a mountain, can't sleep, can't breathe, knows someone who got mugged, etc etc etc.

So yeah I was just asking an honest question. I'm excited to go and experience downtown (done the airport layover before). Just wanted some intel before I went.

Thanks

I think it was a fair question. IMO it's a PITA to fly in there, a long bus ride, to a L/O in a high altitude polluted city. Precautions as in most other large cities would apply here, as would being careful about water (and drinks with ice) and the places you eat etc. That is just common sense at many international destinations.

I've flown with many guys who love the layover there. I don't, so it's on my no fly list...but that's just me.

Just walk around the hotel a few blocks and you will find a tacos y cervasas joint. I try to sample a different one every time. Great layover....enjoy.

You will love MEX.

Be aware of the altitude. Be aware of the smog. (i.e. Don't try to run a 6 minute mile outdoors.)

Keep situational awareness. Don't be the arrogant Gringo. Keep your wallet and passport secure. Make a photocopy of your passport and credit cards. Keep these separately. Don't drink the water, don't put ice in your drink, and brush your teeth with bottled water (unless you are confident the hotel has their own water treatment system). Bring Imodium just in case.

After a couple of layovers there you will be an old pro and truly will look forward to it. It is great!!!

So other than the altitude, it sounds like PHL. That's good advice no matter what big city you're in.