Be Safe in Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a relatively safe city, and visitors shouldnt experience any problems related to safety or health. However, living side-by-side with the wealth and glamour is some of the deepest poverty in America. Crimes of theft and violence occasionally happen, but they are not always directed at tourists. Even so, its best not to tempt fate by inviting easy theft by leaving bags unattended or conspicuously displaying wealth.

Safety

On the surface, Santa Fe seems like a utopia of cultural harmony between the Anglos, Hispanics and Native Americans. But, in fact, deep resentments between race and economic status create serious problems in this city. Most of the trouble happens at night, away from the Plaza, and it rarely involves tourists. Even so, be aware of your surroundings when you stroll round downtown at night and dont leave anything of value in your rental car, as theft is the most common form of crime in Santa Fe.

Health

The only health issue you should be concerned about is the intense New Mexican sun, which often catches visitors by surprise. Santa Fe sits at a fairly high altitude, and on a bright sunny day, even in the winter, you can get sunburnt quickly. If you venture higher into the mountains, be sure and wear sunscreen and a hat. Also, Santa Fe is a high, dry desert environment, so drink plenty of water to keep hydrated.

Travel insurance

No matter how many precautions you take during your visit to Santa Fe, there is always the potential risk of accident or misfortune. Theft can easily happen if you arent being careful with your belongings in the downtown area or around the Plaza. Travel insurance goes a long way to ensure that you have peace of mind and a backup should anything unfortunate occur; the cost is minimal compared to the price of getting ripped off with no theft insurance.

Visitors to the United States should make sure they have comprehensive medical insurance before they travel. Medical costs in America can be incredibly expensive if something serious happens.