Gang shootings have spread to Calgary, are you afraid to live in this city?
The resorts are for the most part like gated communities. They all have security guards and are pretty careful who is around. Yes, the beaches are public so someone could walk up but it would be pretty rare. I would also say unless your parents like heading to say a club in downtown Cancun, and wander around drunk flashing cash and jewelery they're going to be fine.
The resorts of the Mayan Riviera are more remote than those right in Cancun and are likely quieter. Quieter still might be Cozumel.
I'm heading to Cozumel on New Years and crime hasn't been anything I've given one serious thought to. I've been more concerned about the weather as "el Norte" (the north winds) have been acting up.
I also have friends who just came back from Cancun/Mayan Riviera a week ago and they have no bullet holes in them.
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