Opinions regarding Mexico? - Page 2

icehog3 · 09-12-2010, 03:57 PM

What is your perception of Mexico?

The border towns are in turmoil, it is sad and scary to read about what is going on there with the cartels. I hope for the good people there sakes' the find a solution.

If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations?
If not, why?

Yes....I have been to many places in Mexico, and many of the tourist destinations were fun. I would probably not return to Cancun because of the unrepaired damage the hurricanes have done to the beaches, but would certainly consider some of the other tourist destinations.

Would you feel safe in Mexico?

In many of the tourist destinations, yes.

Places that I have been that I would not return to are border towns (Juarez, Tiajuana) because of safety issues, Acapulco because of police corruption aimed at US tourists, and Mexico City because of crime in general.

What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination?

Pluses....Affordable vacations in many instances, some beautiful places.

Minuses....the issues I spoke about in the places I would not return to.

okieRob · 09-12-2010, 06:46 PM

Responses below.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Texan in Mexico

Good day to all:

This thread is a bit self-serving as I am working together with the partners of my company to guide us through a pretty rough patch at the moment.

The majority of our business is in Cancun, Cozumel, Playa and Vallarta. Another portion in the Eastern Caribbean.

If I may I would like to ask a few general questions:

What is your perception of Mexico? Bad - Drug Wars & Corruption

If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations? No
If not, why? I'm going to take a different tact - I refuse to support a country that is systematically invading our borders. Plenty of other places in the Caribbean where I can vacation and in turn support the local economy.

Would you feel safe in Mexico? No. Been there - outside of the compound where I was staying I did not feel safe at all.

What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination? Biggest plus - proximity. Biggest minus - it is a war zone where the government can't be trusted.

Thank you in advance.

Respectfully,

Travis
Posted via Mobile Device

hotreds · 09-12-2010, 08:38 PM

This, however, I love:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACc5J...eature=related

Starscream · 09-12-2010, 08:59 PM

I agree with the Admiral on this one. A lot of negative press has been given to Mexico (and rightly so) about the border towns. There are a lot of good people in Mexico and places to see, but the border areas are filled with crime and danger. I've never been to Mexico; all info I have is from the media and other second hand sources.

BlackDog · 09-13-2010, 07:38 AM

I would not be inclined to go to Mexico. As has been stated, crime is the main reason. When I travel I may go to a resort, but I also want to travel the countryside and see the local sights, eat at local restaurants, and take in some of the local lifestyle. I know when my mother has travelled to Cancun and Cozumel she was advised not to leave the resort area. I would be more incluned to go to Honduras if I were to make a trip to that part of the world.

gvarsity · 09-13-2010, 02:39 PM

What is your perception of Mexico? Complicated. Parts are wonderful and parts are nasty. I used to go to Juarez regularly but wouldn't go there now. I would still consider most of the tourist towns like Puerto Vallarta.

If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations?
If not, why? Yes but not at the top. There are places with similar benefits that are cleaner and safer.

Would you feel safe in Mexico? Generally. The likelihood of actually getting caught up in the drug violence is low. (Assuming you aren't being careless.)

What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination? Plus Beautiful. I love Mexican food. Used to be really cheap. Minus. There is more risk. Can be poor and dirty. (My issue with Jamaica as well.)

For a warm ocean destination I would go to either the Bahamas or St. Martin over Mexico every time.

XTRazzer · 09-13-2010, 03:32 PM

What is your perception of Mexico?
A country with corrupt politics and high crime rates. Although it's been that way for a long time, it's worse today. And VW Bug taxi cabs everywhere.

If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations?
Maybe for a fishing trip (fly, surf, offshore). I know people who traveled to parts of Mexico for fishing trips and had a very good time. I'm sure someone would be able to recommend what/where, but I can't think of specific destinations at the moment.

If not, why?
There are plenty of spots in the US to sit on a beach and drink.

Would you feel safe in Mexico?
I would be 'ok' going somewhere that was recommended as a good fishing destination. As with any foreign travel precautions must be taken. I have no desire to travel into the MX/US border towns.

What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination?
Plus: Dollar to Peso conversion, different culture, distinct fish species
Minus: crime rate, pollution (relative)

09-13-2010, 04:53 PM

Lot's of great input here! I head down at least once a year. I always feel safe there but I don't go out at night and I stay in public areas. I fly into Cancun and immediately shuttle down to Playa Del Carmen. I prefer that area and don't even frequent Cancun anymore.

Cozumel Palace in Cozumel is now my favorite destination and I am off the mainland and never felt insecure as of late. El Presidente and Iberostar on Cozumel are also awesome! For the east I have no hesitation to recommend Cozumel. And even Play del Carmen has automatic weapon armed security because they know that is a cash cow for them.

If you like the Pacific coast then Manzanillo is the place to go. Not well known and out of the way. The Riu is nice there.

Volt · 09-14-2010, 08:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tank

... And even Play del Carmen has automatic weapon armed security because they know that is a cash cow for them.
....

Reason enough not to go for me. They would not be paying for guards without a damn good reason.

I am a fairly seasoned traveler courtesy of Uncle Sam's canoe club. Way too many other safer and cleaner places to visit for my $$$. One always has to be aware as a "tourist" your marked for easy bucks. "Hey Joes" exist every where. Mexico has never had a strong pull for me and lately with the crime, their attitudes towards us like we owe their illegals here something - not a chance.

Sand and fun - Bahamas, Virgin Islands, etc.

Countries in general I had a great time or a lot of fun in - Greece, Spain, Palma de Mallorca, Singapore and England

Countries that were either not enjoyable or dangerous - Isreal, Italy, France, Egypt

Countries I would return to with some caution - Turkey, Dubai, Crete

Countries on the bucket list - The Land of Tulips, any of the Scandinavian countries, Canada, Australia

Lucky_Hippo · 09-14-2010, 06:01 AM

Never again. We went once and it was more than enough. After getting shook down at the airport by the passport checker for 200 bucks and our friends stopped in a taxi and shook down for another 60 by cops, our first hour in Mexico was a real eye opener. These are the people who are supposed to protect you?

Taco Bell is the closest I'm gonna make a run to the boarder any time soon.

ucla695 · 09-14-2010, 07:16 AM

What is your perception of Mexico?

A country in turmoil struggling to root out the drug cartels and pervasive corruption.

If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations?
If not, why?

No. I've had a great time on all my vacations to Mexico (Cancun, Mazatlan, Cabo, Baja), but I will not return until the violence subsides.

The wife, friends, family and I would travel down to Baja (Rosarito/Puerto Nuevo) several times a year to enjoy long weekends. It's a relatively easy drive from LA. We enjoyed kicking back, having a few drinks and eating langostino. Our last trip was in August '07. Since then, reports of violence in Rosarito and Tiajuana have kept us away. That said, I'd return once things get under control

Would you feel safe in Mexico?

Not at the moment.

What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination?

Plus - depending on the destination, relatively close to Southern California. Great, relaxing atmosphere.
Minus - corruption and violence

massphatness · 09-14-2010, 07:39 AM

What is your perception of Mexico?

If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations?
If not, why?

Would you feel safe in Mexico?

What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination?

I don't know about the other questions, but the biggest plus is Inés Sainz

Ashcan Bill · 09-14-2010, 08:26 AM

What is your perception of Mexico?
I’ve been traveling to Mexico since the early seventies. Back then the biggest negative was corruption. Today it seems the corruption has merged with drug violence to form a particularly nasty stew. The country itself is beautiful with an interesting history. The people are a mixed bag like everywhere else – some good, some bad. It's just that now the bad are really bad.

If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations?
If not, why?
About the only way I would travel to Mexico today would be on a cruise ship where I had the choice to stay on board or get off the ship. We’re actually taking a cruise to Mexico the end of October. Wish me luck in Acapulco.

Would you feel safe in Mexico?
It would depend where I was. I’d definitely be on high alert and stay aware of my surroundings.

What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination?
Temperate weather and beautiful country offset by the opportunity to be kidnapped, held up or murdered.

For those that go on a cruise, is Cozumel a compelling reason to choose one over the other? Either a positive or negative?
Personally I like Cozumel and feel safer there than on the mainland. While I wouldn’t specifically book a cruise because it was going to Cozumel (I prefer to visit new places when I cruise, given the choice), I’d look on it as a good port when selecting an itinerary. We stopped there last March.

One point I'll add is I've traveled through Mexico enough to be fairly comfortable there, or at least not to be terrified of the entire country. But I can see where tourists who have never been there would look at the current levels of violence and decide to go elsewhere, and I wouldn't blame them a bit.

DPD6030 · 09-14-2010, 07:51 PM

What is your perception of Mexico?

A beautiful country with some bad areas just like the USA

If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations?

Yes, we're thinking about going to the Riviera Maya area for our honeymoon sometime in the next few months into early-mid next year.

Would you feel safe in Mexico?

Where I go, yes. I've been to Cozumel numerous times and felt completely safe there. I've also done tours on the mainland and felt safe. Costa Maya was a great place to get a chair, drink beer and eat chips & salsa

What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination?

Biggest plus - Short flights, value, weather, history, cheap fishing

Biggest minus - the northern borders and the drug war going on and the pushy "must buy" this and that attitude.

mosesbotbol · 09-15-2010, 06:44 AM

You know I am biased, but here are my responses:

What is your perception of Mexico?

A country of vast regional and culinary differences with an untamed factor to it. Very stylish and hip on one end; desperate and dangerous on the other. Mexico has the world’s 2nd largest city and many friendly people,

If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations?
If not, why?

I’d stay with my parents on Isla Mujeres, or with cousins in Mexico City. I would like to see Merida, but Mexico City is pretty high up on where I’d like visit. Many famous restaurants and looks pretty cool. The Mexican highways and travelling by bus is a drag; very dull and un-scenic roads (at least in QR).

Would you feel safe in Mexico?

Yes, for the places I would go, 100%

What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination?

Plusses: Food, value, beaches and culture. Minuses: heat, potential danger, and getting sick.

Don Fernando · 09-15-2010, 07:05 AM

- What is your perception of Mexico?

Corrupt and in war with drug lords.

- If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations? If not, why?

Hell no. I mean, I would love to see the country, it has a great history but it is way to unsafe and corrupt. A Dutch guy who moved to Cancún to run a hotel got attacked by a three guys, one of them the brother of a politician from the Partido Verde party. He defended himself, but guess who got locked up? Indeed, the Dutch guy. And when his mom came over to visit him in jail, she and his lawyer got kidnapped. He's been in jail for a year now while his attacker is still running loose. No way in hell that I would risk something happening to me in a country with such a corrupt justice system. More on his story: http://www.freeingfree.net/

- Would you feel safe in Mexico?

Most of the time yeah, as I feel safe easily. But feeling safe or being safe are two different things. And as stated above, you can't count on the justice system and the government for your safety if something goes wrong.

- What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination?

plus would be the weather and history, minus the drug war, corrupt government and other crimes.

09-15-2010, 07:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Texan in Mexico

Good day to all:

This thread is a bit self-serving as I am working together with the partners of my company to guide us through a pretty rough patch at the moment.

The majority of our business is in Cancun, Cozumel, Playa and Vallarta. Another portion in the Eastern Caribbean.

If I may I would like to ask a few general questions:

What is your perception of Mexico? That it is a country in civil strife with drug cartels and gangs ruling the streets. The govt is striving to bring it under control but there appears to be heavy corruption there as well.

If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations? It used to be. Now no chance.
If not, why? With three young children the perception of lack of safety is overwhelming. Tourists seem to be victims of violence far more than in other popular destinations.

Would you feel safe in Mexico? No

What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination? Being from Western Canada Mexica is the one of the shorter flight distances from our home that can provide a tropical vacation destination. The biggest minus is simple. Whether it is true or not I don't know actual statistics but the perception is it is an unsafe destination. That there is little to know rule on the streets and that there is little if any cooperation with tourists and authorities.

Also the Gov't of Canada has the following travel advisory for Mexico

Canadians travelling to Mexico should exercise a high degree of caution due to occasional demonstrations and protests, high levels of criminal activity and violence throughout the country.

While that may not sound like a huge warning..........in typical Canadian fashion it is downplayed this is the second highest level of travel warning that is submitted.

Thank you in advance.

Respectfully,

Travis
Posted via Mobile Device

I know that may of my friends and acquaintances have changed there mind in the recent years about travel to Mexico.

Da Klugs · 09-15-2010, 08:05 AM

Perceptions are reality for most. My perception is simple - there are so many alternatives that going there isn't even a consideration based upon the news coverage of the escalating issues coupled with the traditional issues (water and safety). Not fair or even empirically accurate but my behavior is based upon perception and an adjustment based upon reality would only take place if I traveled there again. Not going to do that based upon perception. It's the catch 22 problem for Mexican tourism. For the most part the resort areas are gorgeous and safe, but they are still part of a country that has many parts which are not. On a smaller scale some larger cities in the US have had the same issues. Contain many great areas to visit or live... tainted by a general perception of the region based upon pockets of places that are not. How does a visitor know the difference?

JDTexan · 09-16-2010, 11:16 AM

What is your perception of Mexico?
Mexico is a Narco state and the government has absolutely no control anymore.

If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations?
If not, why?
No, My wife is from Guadalajara and this is the first year we have not gone to Mexico at least once. Her moms family has a house in musquiz and they will not even travel there from San Antonio. They would make this trip at least twice a month and this year wont travel because locals no how bad it is. Mexicans and tourists don't feel safe in Mexico.

Would you feel safe in Mexico?
No even Mexicans don't feel safe there.

What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination?
Biggest plus use to be a cheap vacation close and easy travel but now the negatives far out weight the positives and there are plenty of places just a cheap and better environment all around. We are now traveling to Costa Rica instead. I would love to go back and let my children see inner Mexico but it is going to be a long time before that can be possible. Once the Mexican Nationals are ready to go back, I will feel more comfortable.

ninjavanish · 09-16-2010, 11:45 AM

What is your perception of Mexico?

My personal perception of Mexico is fairly limited but I have been to Mexico dozens of times when I was living in Tucson, AZ I began dating a pretty little mexican girl. At the time she lived in Tucson, but later on it became apparent that her visa would expire and would not be renewed and shortly thereafter became apparent this would not work. Eventually she moved back. She and I had visited many times to the border town of Agua Prieta (South of Douglas, AZ). It was dirty and run down. Homeless people plagued the streets, I often times saw them eating food off the street or out of garbage cans. Pretty gross, but they never bothered me. I spoke Spanish enough to get around and do what I wanted to do (mostly eating Sonoran Hot Dogs, tortas, tacos and drinking mexican beer). Often times at night you would hear gunfire in the distance. But it was a more rural town than Nogales or Tijuana and obviously infinitely smaller than Cuidad Juarez. I never really had any problems but I always had a watchful eye open, whether out of fear or just trying to safeguard myself against violence I can't be sure. I've been down the coast of the Sea of Cortez quite a ways. Beautiful and awe-inspiring landscape. I've been to Major capital cities such as Hermosillo. The culture of the old parts of the town are quite rich in it's history. Overall I think if you can get past the dirt, the poverty, the crime, the drugs, the violence, the kidnappings, the swine flu... It's an amazing place.

If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations?
If not, why?

I probably would not consider a vacation to Mexico anytime in the near future mostly because I have already spent a lot of time there and there are other places I'd like to visit. And B) Although I never had any problems, I was also always with a group of locals who knew me well and who I knew well enough and trusted to know how to steer clear of dangerous areas and situations. Going alone as an outsider I would not have that confidence and therefore I would feel uncomfortable, especially if I was bringing my family.

Would you feel safe in Mexico?

It depends, I have been to Mexico during the bad times and felt perfectly fine... even to the border towns... but I would feel safer in the US. Maybe it's just the feeling of being "home" or knowing that if I really got into trouble I have relatives in Mississippi that wouldn't mind laying the lumber on some folks to get me out of said trouble.

What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination?

Food and Drink. Beautiful exotic locations. And believe it or not... good people. For every gangbanger, druglord, or terrorist that gets on the news for beheading some local mayor or journalist or cop... there are thousands of good Mexican people just trying to make it by through all of the corruption and violence. It's a shame. A damn shame. I really loved Mexico, but my heartfelt opinion to anyone considering going there... is don't go. Or if you do, watch your @$$. Mind your own business and stay clear of going places that you're unsure of.

09-12-2010, 03:57 PM	#1
icehog3 Admiral Douchebag Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Tom Location: Clermont, Kentucky Posts: 71,898 Trading: (60)	Re: Opinions regarding Mexico? What is your perception of Mexico? The border towns are in turmoil, it is sad and scary to read about what is going on there with the cartels. I hope for the good people there sakes' the find a solution. If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations? If not, why? Yes....I have been to many places in Mexico, and many of the tourist destinations were fun. I would probably not return to Cancun because of the unrepaired damage the hurricanes have done to the beaches, but would certainly consider some of the other tourist destinations. Would you feel safe in Mexico? In many of the tourist destinations, yes. Places that I have been that I would not return to are border towns (Juarez, Tiajuana) because of safety issues, Acapulco because of police corruption aimed at US tourists, and Mexico City because of crime in general. What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination? Pluses....Affordable vacations in many instances, some beautiful places. Minuses....the issues I spoke about in the places I would not return to. __________________ Thanks Dave, Julian, James, Kelly, Peter, Gerry, Dave, Mo, Frank, Týr and Mr. Mark!

09-12-2010, 08:38 PM	#3
hotreds Ephesians 2:8 Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: 5 miles past "Resume Speed" Posts: 11,673 Trading: (63)	Re: Opinions regarding Mexico? This, however, I love: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACc5J...eature=related __________________ God loves you so much, that he made you read this, just to let you know.

09-12-2010, 08:59 PM	#4
Starscream Knowhutimean, Vern? Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Andy Location: In a little town somewhere in the USA Posts: 10,237 Trading: (4)	Re: Opinions regarding Mexico? I agree with the Admiral on this one. A lot of negative press has been given to Mexico (and rightly so) about the border towns. There are a lot of good people in Mexico and places to see, but the border areas are filled with crime and danger. I've never been to Mexico; all info I have is from the media and other second hand sources. __________________ Insert quote here.

09-13-2010, 07:38 AM	#5
BlackDog Gonna make you groove... Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Warren Location: Minneapolis, MN Posts: 2,468 Trading: (19)	Re: Opinions regarding Mexico? I would not be inclined to go to Mexico. As has been stated, crime is the main reason. When I travel I may go to a resort, but I also want to travel the countryside and see the local sights, eat at local restaurants, and take in some of the local lifestyle. I know when my mother has travelled to Cancun and Cozumel she was advised not to leave the resort area. I would be more incluned to go to Honduras if I were to make a trip to that part of the world. __________________ "We live in the good of this."

09-13-2010, 02:39 PM	#6
gvarsity still crazy Join Date: Oct 2008 Posts: 621 Trading: (15)	Re: Opinions regarding Mexico? What is your perception of Mexico? Complicated. Parts are wonderful and parts are nasty. I used to go to Juarez regularly but wouldn't go there now. I would still consider most of the tourist towns like Puerto Vallarta. If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations? If not, why? Yes but not at the top. There are places with similar benefits that are cleaner and safer. Would you feel safe in Mexico? Generally. The likelihood of actually getting caught up in the drug violence is low. (Assuming you aren't being careless.) What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination? Plus Beautiful. I love Mexican food. Used to be really cheap. Minus. There is more risk. Can be poor and dirty. (My issue with Jamaica as well.) For a warm ocean destination I would go to either the Bahamas or St. Martin over Mexico every time.

09-13-2010, 03:32 PM	#7
XTRazzer Still Watching My Back Join Date: Apr 2009 Posts: 131 Trading: (1)	Re: Opinions regarding Mexico? What is your perception of Mexico? A country with corrupt politics and high crime rates. Although it's been that way for a long time, it's worse today. And VW Bug taxi cabs everywhere. If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations? Maybe for a fishing trip (fly, surf, offshore). I know people who traveled to parts of Mexico for fishing trips and had a very good time. I'm sure someone would be able to recommend what/where, but I can't think of specific destinations at the moment. If not, why? There are plenty of spots in the US to sit on a beach and drink. Would you feel safe in Mexico? I would be 'ok' going somewhere that was recommended as a good fishing destination. As with any foreign travel precautions must be taken. I have no desire to travel into the MX/US border towns. What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination? Plus: Dollar to Peso conversion, different culture, distinct fish species Minus: crime rate, pollution (relative)

09-13-2010, 04:53 PM	#8
Tank Guest Posts: n/a	Re: Opinions regarding Mexico? Lot's of great input here! I head down at least once a year. I always feel safe there but I don't go out at night and I stay in public areas. I fly into Cancun and immediately shuttle down to Playa Del Carmen. I prefer that area and don't even frequent Cancun anymore. Cozumel Palace in Cozumel is now my favorite destination and I am off the mainland and never felt insecure as of late. El Presidente and Iberostar on Cozumel are also awesome! For the east I have no hesitation to recommend Cozumel. And even Play del Carmen has automatic weapon armed security because they know that is a cash cow for them. If you like the Pacific coast then Manzanillo is the place to go. Not well known and out of the way. The Riu is nice there.

09-14-2010, 06:01 AM	#10
Lucky_Hippo A Cigar = 42 Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Gary Location: Kansas Posts: 494 Trading: (2)	Re: Opinions regarding Mexico? Never again. We went once and it was more than enough. After getting shook down at the airport by the passport checker for 200 bucks and our friends stopped in a taxi and shook down for another 60 by cops, our first hour in Mexico was a real eye opener. These are the people who are supposed to protect you? Taco Bell is the closest I'm gonna make a run to the boarder any time soon. __________________ Who wants an orange whip? Orange whip? Orange whip? Three orange whips. -J.Candy

09-14-2010, 07:16 AM	#11
ucla695 Neither here, nor there Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: The Pool Posts: 3,696 Trading: (5)	Re: Opinions regarding Mexico? What is your perception of Mexico? A country in turmoil struggling to root out the drug cartels and pervasive corruption. If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations? If not, why? No. I've had a great time on all my vacations to Mexico (Cancun, Mazatlan, Cabo, Baja), but I will not return until the violence subsides. The wife, friends, family and I would travel down to Baja (Rosarito/Puerto Nuevo) several times a year to enjoy long weekends. It's a relatively easy drive from LA. We enjoyed kicking back, having a few drinks and eating langostino. Our last trip was in August '07. Since then, reports of violence in Rosarito and Tiajuana have kept us away. That said, I'd return once things get under control Would you feel safe in Mexico? Not at the moment. What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination? Plus - depending on the destination, relatively close to Southern California. Great, relaxing atmosphere. Minus - corruption and violence

09-14-2010, 07:39 AM	#12
massphatness Where's my buffaloooo ... Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Vin Location: MassHolia Posts: 12,690 Trading: (206)	Re: Opinions regarding Mexico? What is your perception of Mexico? If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations? If not, why? Would you feel safe in Mexico? What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination? I don't know about the other questions, but the biggest plus is Inés Sainz __________________ *Help Support The Navy SEAL Foundation: HERE*

09-14-2010, 08:26 AM	#13
Ashcan Bill Ol' Dude Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Bill Location: Henderson, NV Posts: 1,903 Trading: (6)	Re: Opinions regarding Mexico? What is your perception of Mexico? I’ve been traveling to Mexico since the early seventies. Back then the biggest negative was corruption. Today it seems the corruption has merged with drug violence to form a particularly nasty stew. The country itself is beautiful with an interesting history. The people are a mixed bag like everywhere else – some good, some bad. It's just that now the bad are really bad. If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations? If not, why? About the only way I would travel to Mexico today would be on a cruise ship where I had the choice to stay on board or get off the ship. We’re actually taking a cruise to Mexico the end of October. Wish me luck in Acapulco. Would you feel safe in Mexico? It would depend where I was. I’d definitely be on high alert and stay aware of my surroundings. What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination? Temperate weather and beautiful country offset by the opportunity to be kidnapped, held up or murdered. For those that go on a cruise, is Cozumel a compelling reason to choose one over the other? Either a positive or negative? Personally I like Cozumel and feel safer there than on the mainland. While I wouldn’t specifically book a cruise because it was going to Cozumel (I prefer to visit new places when I cruise, given the choice), I’d look on it as a good port when selecting an itinerary. We stopped there last March. One point I'll add is I've traveled through Mexico enough to be fairly comfortable there, or at least not to be terrified of the entire country. But I can see where tourists who have never been there would look at the current levels of violence and decide to go elsewhere, and I wouldn't blame them a bit.

09-14-2010, 07:51 PM	#14
DPD6030 Shepard of the sheeple Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Andrew Location: The Mitten Posts: 7,166 Trading: (151)	Re: Opinions regarding Mexico? What is your perception of Mexico? A beautiful country with some bad areas just like the USA If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations? Yes, we're thinking about going to the Riviera Maya area for our honeymoon sometime in the next few months into early-mid next year. Would you feel safe in Mexico? Where I go, yes. I've been to Cozumel numerous times and felt completely safe there. I've also done tours on the mainland and felt safe. Costa Maya was a great place to get a chair, drink beer and eat chips & salsa What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination? Biggest plus - Short flights, value, weather, history, cheap fishing Biggest minus - the northern borders and the drug war going on and the pushy "must buy" this and that attitude.

09-15-2010, 06:44 AM	#15
mosesbotbol That's a Corgi Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Moses Location: Boston Posts: 6,171 Trading: (6)	Re: Opinions regarding Mexico? You know I am biased, but here are my responses: What is your perception of Mexico? A country of vast regional and culinary differences with an untamed factor to it. Very stylish and hip on one end; desperate and dangerous on the other. Mexico has the world’s 2nd largest city and many friendly people, If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations? If not, why? I’d stay with my parents on Isla Mujeres, or with cousins in Mexico City. I would like to see Merida, but Mexico City is pretty high up on where I’d like visit. Many famous restaurants and looks pretty cool. The Mexican highways and travelling by bus is a drag; very dull and un-scenic roads (at least in QR). Would you feel safe in Mexico? Yes, for the places I would go, 100% What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination? Plusses: Food, value, beaches and culture. Minuses: heat, potential danger, and getting sick. __________________ Port Wine & Claret \| British Cars \| Welsh Corgi's

09-15-2010, 07:05 AM	#16
Don Fernando Postwhore Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Ferdinand Location: Singapore Posts: 10,070 Trading: (29)	Re: Opinions regarding Mexico? - What is your perception of Mexico? Corrupt and in war with drug lords. - If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations? If not, why? Hell no. I mean, I would love to see the country, it has a great history but it is way to unsafe and corrupt. A Dutch guy who moved to Cancún to run a hotel got attacked by a three guys, one of them the brother of a politician from the Partido Verde party. He defended himself, but guess who got locked up? Indeed, the Dutch guy. And when his mom came over to visit him in jail, she and his lawyer got kidnapped. He's been in jail for a year now while his attacker is still running loose. No way in hell that I would risk something happening to me in a country with such a corrupt justice system. More on his story: http://www.freeingfree.net/ - Would you feel safe in Mexico? Most of the time yeah, as I feel safe easily. But feeling safe or being safe are two different things. And as stated above, you can't count on the justice system and the government for your safety if something goes wrong. - What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination? plus would be the weather and history, minus the drug war, corrupt government and other crimes. __________________ check out my reviews on my blog.

09-15-2010, 08:05 AM	#18
Da Klugs Juan of 11 Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Dave Location: Right here Posts: 4,222 Trading: (8)	Re: Opinions regarding Mexico? Perceptions are reality for most. My perception is simple - there are so many alternatives that going there isn't even a consideration based upon the news coverage of the escalating issues coupled with the traditional issues (water and safety). Not fair or even empirically accurate but my behavior is based upon perception and an adjustment based upon reality would only take place if I traveled there again. Not going to do that based upon perception. It's the catch 22 problem for Mexican tourism. For the most part the resort areas are gorgeous and safe, but they are still part of a country that has many parts which are not. On a smaller scale some larger cities in the US have had the same issues. Contain many great areas to visit or live... tainted by a general perception of the region based upon pockets of places that are not. How does a visitor know the difference? __________________ Communities Not Commodities. Punctuation challenged, but trying. Proud winner of phase 1 of the Weight loss contest

09-16-2010, 11:16 AM	#19
JDTexan College Football Fanatic Join Date: Jul 2010 First Name: Justin Location: Conservativeville Posts: 597 Trading: (3)	Re: Opinions regarding Mexico? What is your perception of Mexico? Mexico is a Narco state and the government has absolutely no control anymore. If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations? If not, why? No, My wife is from Guadalajara and this is the first year we have not gone to Mexico at least once. Her moms family has a house in musquiz and they will not even travel there from San Antonio. They would make this trip at least twice a month and this year wont travel because locals no how bad it is. Mexicans and tourists don't feel safe in Mexico. Would you feel safe in Mexico? No even Mexicans don't feel safe there. What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination? Biggest plus use to be a cheap vacation close and easy travel but now the negatives far out weight the positives and there are plenty of places just a cheap and better environment all around. We are now traveling to Costa Rica instead. I would love to go back and let my children see inner Mexico but it is going to be a long time before that can be possible. Once the Mexican Nationals are ready to go back, I will feel more comfortable.

09-16-2010, 11:45 AM	#20
ninjavanish Feeling at Home Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Trust me, your humi isn't big enough. Posts: 507 Trading: (16)	Re: Opinions regarding Mexico? What is your perception of Mexico? My personal perception of Mexico is fairly limited but I have been to Mexico dozens of times when I was living in Tucson, AZ I began dating a pretty little mexican girl. At the time she lived in Tucson, but later on it became apparent that her visa would expire and would not be renewed and shortly thereafter became apparent this would not work. Eventually she moved back. She and I had visited many times to the border town of Agua Prieta (South of Douglas, AZ). It was dirty and run down. Homeless people plagued the streets, I often times saw them eating food off the street or out of garbage cans. Pretty gross, but they never bothered me. I spoke Spanish enough to get around and do what I wanted to do (mostly eating Sonoran Hot Dogs, tortas, tacos and drinking mexican beer). Often times at night you would hear gunfire in the distance. But it was a more rural town than Nogales or Tijuana and obviously infinitely smaller than Cuidad Juarez. I never really had any problems but I always had a watchful eye open, whether out of fear or just trying to safeguard myself against violence I can't be sure. I've been down the coast of the Sea of Cortez quite a ways. Beautiful and awe-inspiring landscape. I've been to Major capital cities such as Hermosillo. The culture of the old parts of the town are quite rich in it's history. Overall I think if you can get past the dirt, the poverty, the crime, the drugs, the violence, the kidnappings, the swine flu... It's an amazing place. If you were to plan a vacation would Mexico be on your list of potential destinations? If not, why? I probably would not consider a vacation to Mexico anytime in the near future mostly because I have already spent a lot of time there and there are other places I'd like to visit. And B) Although I never had any problems, I was also always with a group of locals who knew me well and who I knew well enough and trusted to know how to steer clear of dangerous areas and situations. Going alone as an outsider I would not have that confidence and therefore I would feel uncomfortable, especially if I was bringing my family. Would you feel safe in Mexico? It depends, I have been to Mexico during the bad times and felt perfectly fine... even to the border towns... but I would feel safer in the US. Maybe it's just the feeling of being "home" or knowing that if I really got into trouble I have relatives in Mississippi that wouldn't mind laying the lumber on some folks to get me out of said trouble. What is the biggest plus and biggest minus that Mexico offers you as a tourist destination? Food and Drink. Beautiful exotic locations. And believe it or not... good people. For every gangbanger, druglord, or terrorist that gets on the news for beheading some local mayor or journalist or cop... there are thousands of good Mexican people just trying to make it by through all of the corruption and violence. It's a shame. A damn shame. I really loved Mexico, but my heartfelt opinion to anyone considering going there... is don't go. Or if you do, watch your @$$. Mind your own business and stay clear of going places that you're unsure of.