Is Guadalajara Safe for a Student Abroad?

There are many reasons why international students are attracted to studying in Guadalajara every single year. Including factors like the wide range of things to do, affordability, Spanish learning opportunities, and the popular Mexican cuisine.

However, the safety in Guadalajara is for many students still something they are taking into consideration. This article explains if Guadalajara is safe and how you should go about it.

The reputation of Guadalajara

The image of Guadalajara has been negatively affected due to the news of crime and violence in the city. The portrayal of Guadalajara in a negative light in the media leads people to believe that it is very unsafe. It is understandable that you’d be concerned about your safety in Guadalajara when you read the negative news…However, Guadalajara is much more than what you read in the news.

It is not a dangerous city to study abroad. Focusing too much on the negative news leads you to generalize that the entire city is dangerous.

Safe Neighborhoods and ones to avoid

Guadalajara is a big, populous city and like any big city in the world, there are some areas that you need to stay away from. It is best to avoid certain sketchy neighborhoods like San Carlos and Lomas de Polanco. But apart from that, the city is mostly safe, and you won’t face any problems while living here. There are many nice and safe neighborhoods in Guadalajara like Chapultepec, Zapopan, Providencia among others. These neighborhoods are very popular among foreign travelers, and you can live comfortably in these neighborhoods.

Also, many top-ranked universities in Guadalajara are present in these neighborhoods, like Universidad de Guadalajara. Many international students choose to live in these areas as they offer a safe and lively atmosphere.

Keep an open mind while researching for your study abroad experience in Guadalajara. Do not jump to conclusions just by reading the negative news headlines about Guadalajara. The city is so much more than the negative news and has a lot to offer to its visitors.

Guadalajara is popular among international students

Guadalajara consists of many reputed universities and numerous international students come here for exchange programs. Many expats also choose to live here.

Many tourists visit the city every year and leave with amazing memories. The majority of people who visit Guadalajara feel completely safe while exploring the city and do not face any safety concerns.

Take common precautions

Although Guadalajara is mostly safe, you must take the essential safety precautions while living abroad in the city, just as you would do in any other city in the world.

Do not wear expensive jewelry, watches or show off your expensive phones on the street. Stay away from bad areas and be aware of your surroundings. Take care of your belongings and do not carry a lot of cash with you while going out. Do not go alone in strange neighborhoods at night and stay in well-lit areas.

For transportation, you can use official taxis and uber. Properly do your research on different areas in Guadalajara before renting an apartment in the city, to ensure that you live in a safe and lively neighborhood.

Use your common sense, stay vigilant, and you will have no problem enjoying your stay in the city.

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Conclusion

Do not stress too much on the negative aspects. Instead, focus more on the warmth of the local people, the uniqueness of the culture, the beauty of the landscapes, and deliciousness of the food. Don’t worry too much about the safety. If you take the necessary precautions, you will be fine, and you will have a great time in Guadalajara.