stanley Report post Posted November 11, 2010 Thanks for the lecture, Casey. I neither think I'm bullet-proof or stupid, and as a grown-up feel quite capable to make my own decisions about my well-being. See, I just look at it real simple: the dangers of anything happening to US in Mexico is greatly exaggerated. In fact, I feel less safe driving in the area where I live, especially if I should inadvertantly cut off someone whose first reponse is to shoot me. And it happens quite often in the PHX metro area. Last week, two guys were shot in their car while driving. They don't have a clue who did it. This past weekend an 18-yr. old kid out jogging at 7 a.m. to lose a few pounds was shot and killed. They don't have a clue who did it. So it appears "innocents" also get killed here for no reason. Actually, I often drive to Mexico more than once a year and will continue to do so. And I'll continue to take the same precautions I take here: do not get involved with the wrong people; stay out of areas where I don't belong and obey the laws. Most importantly, I'll try to mind my own business. BTW, do you have any figures on how many American tourists have been crime victims there over the last year or so? I would be willing to bet that number is quite low, probably not more than the number of crime victims in Phoenix last weekend. +1 for me on this one! I too, would like to see the statistics on any truly 'innocent' American tourist being harmed in Northern Mexico (or anywhere in Mexico, for that matter....). I don't think it's a matter of having your head in the sand Casey, I think it's a matter of being 'alarmist' or 'realist'...... I went to Rocky Point last May for a nice weekend with a friend. My family told me I was crazy, but show me where the statistics prove tourists are at great risk there? I had a great time there as always, BTW..... I had this same argument, and eventually agreed to disagree with my dear mother on the topic. She could NOT find any examples in significant numbers that proved tourists are at risk! I have also had the same debate with friends regarding hunting the far Southern units. Anyone who knows me, knows that I am VERY fond of the 36's. Like Casey and others, I've been down there many times. I'll be down there next weekend with my boys on a junior hunt. I will not fear for my or their lives in the least. All of the illegals that I have encountered have not wanted to have ANYTHING to do with me! They just hide & run. My mom hates it what I hunt there with my children, but again, show me stats that say it is dangerous to the average hunter?? Good luck to all hunters/tourists North AND South of the border! S. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Outdoor Writer Report post Posted November 11, 2010 The Consulate advises all American citizens living in, visiting or traveling through the consular district to only drive during daylight hours. In addition, Americans are reminded to have a U.S. passport when driving to Mexico and that a visa is required for travel to Mexico. Mexican automobile insurance is required when driving to Mexico and only Mexican pesos are accepted for payment at toll booths. Yup, all of the above is true -- stuff I always heed. BTW, this part "Extreme threats of violence along Highway 15/Benito Juarez Autopista have lead to the prohibition of travel between Estacion Don and Guamuchil, Sinaloa" refers to the OLD free highway and not the toll road. Why? Because about two weeks ago, members of a drug cartel ambushed a police patrol, killing several of them. Stanley, So far, in the area of Mexico we travel, I've heard of only ONE incident of an innocent American being involved. It was the one with a hunting outfitter who had his truck stolen and then was later found dead. If I recall, he was quite a ways off the beaten path. I think we even had a thread about it here. Lastly, ANY incident where an American tourist is victimized would be prime fodder for the U.S. media; the headlines are pretty much nonexistent. And....your mother sounds much like my 89-yr. old mother. My daughter is almost as bad. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Outdoor Writer Report post Posted November 11, 2010 From the U.S. Embassy website: Millions of U.S. citizens safely visit Mexico each year. This includes tens of thousands who cross the border every day for study, tourism or business and at least one million U.S. citizens who live in Mexico. The Mexican government makes a considerable effort to protect U.S. citizens and other visitors to major tourist destinations. Resort areas and tourist destinations in Mexico do not see the levels of drug-related violence and crime reported in the border region and in areas along major drug trafficking routes. Nevertheless, crime and violence are serious problems. While most victims of violence are Mexican citizens associated with criminal activity, the security situation poses serious risks for U.S. citizens as well. It is imperative that U.S. citizens understand the risks involved in travel to Mexico, how best to avoid dangerous situations, and who to contact if one becomes a victim of crime or violence. Common-sense precautions such as visiting only legitimate business and tourist areas during daylight hours, and avoiding areas where criminal activity might occur, can help ensure that travel to Mexico is safe and enjoyable. U.S. citizen victims of crime in Mexico are urged to contact the consular section of the nearest U.S. Consulate or Embassy for advice and assistance. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Outdoor Writer Report post Posted November 13, 2010 About a 1/2 mile south of my house. My wife had to drive around the crime scene on her way home from the grocery store, located at 67th and Indian School. We're just off 67th and Camelback. ******* Phoenix police investigate homicide of man by Stephanie Russo - Nov. 12, 2010 06:57 PM The Arizona Republic Phoenix police are in the initial stages of investigating a homicide that took place Friday evening. Police were at the scene where a man was killed in the 4500 block of North 67th Avenue, police spokesman Sgt. Tommy Thompson said. No further information was immediately available. Check back for updates. Read more: http://www.azcentral.com/community/phoenix...l#ixzz15B4xYV2M Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Outdoor Writer Report post Posted December 11, 2010 Interesting article from USA Today writer: Is it safe to travel to Mexico? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
DesertBull Report post Posted December 11, 2010 Despite tales of drug violence, visitation to Mexico was up almost 19% over last year, as of September. And with 22.6 million tourists expected by year's end, numbers will about equal the record-breaking totals in 2008. About 80% of visitors are North American. That fact that more and more Americans are taking their dollars to Mexico during this economy is sickening enough, the violence not withstanding. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
