A safe night out in Mexico, Colombia, Costa Rica and Panama: what the official travel advice says

Going out at night in another country takes more preparation than at home, and even more so when the plan is a party or a lifestyle venue: you arrive somewhere unfamiliar, sometimes in the small hours, with alcohol involved. This guide summarises what the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice says about Mexico, Colombia, Costa Rica and Panama. We consulted the four "Safety and security" pages on 7 November 2026; none shows a last-updated date, so always check the current version from your own foreign ministry before you leave. It is not exhaustive and does not replace official advice.

Transport: the most important decision of the night

For Mexico, the FCDO warns that unlicensed taxi drivers have robbed and assaulted passengers, including in Mexico City, and recommends authorised "sitio" taxis arranged through your hotel and, at airports, authorised pre-paid services only. For Colombia it reports express kidnappings, assaults and robberies in unlicensed taxis and advises telephone or app-based services (it names Uber and Cabify) rather than hailing a cab on the street. For Costa Rica it says to avoid "taxi piratas": official taxis are red (orange at the airport) with a triangular sticker and a plastic box on the roof, and the driver should display ID and use the meter. For Panama it notes that taxis can be in poor condition and accidents are common, and suggests ride-hailing apps or hotel-arranged transport.

Drinks and substances

Mexico: do not leave food or drink unattended in bars and restaurants; methanol in alcohol cannot be detected by taste or smell. Colombia: the British Embassy has received reports of criminals using drugs, including scopolamine, to incapacitate victims, with cases in bars and nightclubs; accept nothing from strangers and seek medical help quickly if you feel unwell. Costa Rica: there are reports of spiked drinks followed by assault and theft, and even small amounts of methanol can kill, so take care with spirit-based drinks. Panama: the FCDO says not to become involved with drugs of any kind.

Dating, apps and strangers

For Colombia, the FCDO explains that dating apps and websites are used to identify and lure foreigners travelling alone, and advises against going to a stranger's accommodation or inviting them to yours. The rule applies anywhere: on a lifestyle trip, meet in a public place or at the venue itself, verify the profile independently and read our guide on scams and privacy on apps.

Money, documents and reporting crime

Carry only the cash you need. In Panama the advice is to use ATMs inside banks or shopping centres because people have been attacked after withdrawing cash. In Mexico a crime must be reported in person to the state prosecutor's office, and in Panama you are advised to report before leaving the country or police may not investigate. Keep a digital copy of your passport and share your location with someone you trust.

Country-specific points

Mexico: frequent demonstrations in the capital and gentrification protests since July 2025. Costa Rica: rip currents are very common, often with no lifeguards, and crocodiles are sighted near Pacific beaches. Panama: the FCDO lists higher-crime areas of Panama City (San Miguelito, El Chorrillo, Río Abajo, 24 de Diciembre, Santa Ana and Juan Díaz) and notes that public displays of affection can attract attention, with cases of LGBT+ couples detained for public indecency. That last point is a useful reminder: outside a private venue, stay discreet.

Quick checklist

Transport there and back arranged before you go. A trusted person with your location. Drinks always in sight. Limited cash and one backup payment method. Agree on a code word with your partner to leave. And if something feels wrong, you leave: no plan is worth staying for.