Is It Safe???

When we tell friends & family that we're driving to Mexico for the winter, we're inevitably asked, "is it safe?"   We struggle with this question as we know everyone means well and has our best interests at heart, but do you really think we're going to put ourselves in a situation of imminent doom?  We fully understand that there are areas in Mexico where one should not venture, activities one should not engage.  Guess what, there are areas in the US where one should not venture and activities that could land you in deep shit.

Does that mean we won't be on alert, that we won't be vigilant?  That we'll be a couple of hippies touting peace, love, and rock & roll, without a care in the world?  Of course not, especially not in a country where we're guests and can barely get by with the language!  We're aware of areas and towns we should avoid and we will.  We have no intention of doing any drug deals, so that pretty much eliminates any cartel troubles.  We won't be walking alone in deserted areas.  We won't be driving at night.

We are aware of the potential for unscrupulous law enforcement officials (or those posing as such) to try to extort money (mordida) from us.  We have talked to many people on how to identify and deal with these issues and we'll heed their experienced advice.

We're very fortunate to have family members living in Mexico (Sam's brother and sister-in-law) who've provided invaluable guidance for the planning of our journey and our safety.  They'll be aware of our travels while we're in Mexico and will be our 'local' contact should we run into any issues.

The whole driving at night issue is interesting.  Is it because of bandidos?  Bad roads?   Bad lighting?  Yes, all of these and more!  Sam even asked her brother if this was true or just negative hype; his response, "don't drive at night."   Here are the reasons we've heard and will heed the warning, "don't drive in Mexico at night"....

• The roads aren't well lit (if lit at all), so you won't see the potential obstacles listed below until it's too late.
• Large animals (e.g. big, black cows) will wander the roads.  You don't want one of these babies in your windshield, or your lap!
• Big ass potholes are invisible until you're in them.  We're talking potholes that make the ones in Michigan seem like little dips in the road.
• Topes...they're these wicked speed bumps, infamous throughout Mexico.  And we mean wicked!!!!  They are bad enough when you see them during the day, hitting them full speed at night can only lead to trouble.
• If you simply breakdown, help may be harder to come by.  There is a wonderful service on the federal roads called the Green Angels.  Apparently if you run into any trouble, you can call them anytime between sunrise and sunset and they'll send a bi-lingual angel to your rescue. 
• Drunks walking in the road.
• And yes, there could be bandidos, unscrupulous law enforcement, or other unsavory characters who could do you wrong.  Sure they're out there in the day too, but let's face it, you're much more vulnerable on a deserted, dark road than in traffic during the middle of the day.

So yes, we'll be aware, on heightened alert, vigilant of our security and surroundings, but we will not let fear impact experiencing this beautiful country and its wonderful people!  !!Viva Mexico!!


Happy trails and positive vibes!

Bill & Sam