BajaNomad

government warns against land travel in Baja north

loscabos2 - 9-28-2010 at 08:54 AM

we've driven down the Baja to San Lucas a couple of times over the last few years and never experienced any trouble and would like to drive down again next month . Ofcourse now we hear of escalating violence and government warnings to not travel by land in Baja north . I don't see anyone on this site talking about any trouble they have had . Has anyone heard of tourists being carjacked or illegal roadblocks south of tijuanna ?? should I not drive this year ??

David K - 9-28-2010 at 09:08 AM

All you need to do is go to the Baja Nomad Baja Trip Reports forum and read of Nomad's travels...

We went well over 200 miles south of the border just over a week ago... and made it back... alive! LOL

Do what you wish, but if you read the press it will just fill you with fear. We also drove at night south of Ensenada... oh my!

Lions, and tigers, and bears! Oh, my! ....

mcfez - 9-28-2010 at 09:20 AM

A subject here that is always talked about...

We have a place on the Sea of Cortez...so we normally travel thru Mexicali to get to San Felipe. From there.....we travel up to BoLA and westward to various places. I also used to go the the "Mexican Rivera" for years.

Never had a issue. Never. We take our kids. Our Grand kids. Taking Grandson Julian for the first time..... whom is 6
.....this coming Easter.

The kids play...go to town...free to do what they want to do. Except: No town at night. Stay off the main highway. Do not approach any one stopping in their car to "ask you a question". Same rules that I have in California.

I feel that you are more at risk traveling parts of Los Angelos , south Sacramento... Fresno..

We dont stop in the border towns. We gas up...do the bathroom call....eat....then drive straight thru Mexicali. It's just too busy, and issues that I rather avoid.

Go! Drive! Take the kid(s)! Take me!

Oh...and watch out for these drivers down there...no insurance!

kidscart.jpg - 36kB

sanquintinsince73 - 9-28-2010 at 09:36 AM

Just got back last night from San Quintin. I always take my kids and have never had a problem. What you will find though, are people ready to help in the event of a breakdown or whatever.

loscabos2 - 9-28-2010 at 09:51 AM

thanks MCFEZ .. " take me " hahaha thanks funny ! and thankyou Sanquintinsince 73 for the Regan quote .... sad but true .

DENNIS - 9-28-2010 at 09:59 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by loscabos2

government warns against land travel in Baja north



These warnings, in my opinion, are refering to specific places in Norte, such as Cd. Juarez. It can't be expected that our government would seperate and condemn city by city. That would cause an uproar from those cities.

Another thing that bothers me is, Cd. Juarez deserves all the negative press the place gets, but it's kind of compromising for our government to speak to the reality of the "Most dangerous city in the world" since we still maintain a consular facility there.
Why....I don't know.

All that said, people shouldn't be presenting their uneventful travels here as the status quo. I see their pleasant trip as a result of many factors including dodging a bullet.
This place is a war zone with pockets of activity and nothing to keep them from spreading.
There are many, many people who arn't directly connected to the War who, due to poverty and other reasons, will take advantage of sparse law enforcment and have their way with the unprotected.

And, all that said, the chances that travelers and guests in Baja will have that uneventful time are good. Most likely, nothing will happen, but the possibility exists in a strong way. We can't allow ourselves to forget this until the threat is gone, and we're a long way from that time.

BAJA.DESERT.RAT - 9-28-2010 at 10:07 AM

Hola loscabos2 and welcome back to the board.

as the previous posters, i have NEVER had any problems driving in baja.

so far, going south either crossing at tijuana or tecate, i just drive until i get to san quintin and then i relax but i never let my guard down.

i do agree with mcfez that i really feel safer in baja sur than i do in los angeles where we really keep our guard up.

there is such a friendliness in baja sur and the willingness to help if you have any car problems. we do the same.

yes, tijuana has problems but after you cross the border, you should be on your way to your destination and not even stop there. however, people on this site have promoted tijuana as a destination and say it is safe. unfortunately, the economy there has been wrecked and the people there are really suffering.

have a great journey.

BIEN SALUD, DA RAT

wessongroup - 9-28-2010 at 10:07 AM

Dennis ....Ditto's....

[Edited on 9-28-2010 by wessongroup]

loscabos2 - 9-28-2010 at 10:37 AM

Thanks ..Dennis ..Desert Rat .. Wessongroup ... for taking the time to respond to me ... I have also called some people in Cabo and apparently this is a case of " much ado about nothing " ... Oh, I also called the Canadian Consulate in Tijuana .... they " cannot comment further than the recommendation on the web-site " . American and Canadian economy issues aside , not all people will take the time to ask you good people or call friends in Cabo to ask what the real situation is .... they will just check the Government travel advisory and decide to go somewhere else .... these irresponsible warnings really hurt the Baja economy .

nbacc - 9-28-2010 at 11:01 AM

mcfez is 100% right. That is what we do on the way to San Felipe also and have never had a problem. Go through through in El Centro and just keep going. Nancy

DENNIS - 9-28-2010 at 11:02 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by loscabos2
these irresponsible warnings really hurt the Baja economy .



I would think that perhaps you would do some research before you come to that decision, but I think you heard exactly what you wanted to hear and nothing else.
Have a good trip.

Bob and Susan - 9-28-2010 at 11:04 AM

i'd warn you about the road south of ensenada

HORRIBLE!!!

lots of dirt and rocks

also

just south of tecate on mex3

HORRIBLE!!!

even worse this week

Baja&Back - 9-28-2010 at 11:05 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by loscabos2Ofcourse now we hear of escalating violence and government warnings to not travel by land in Baja north . I don't see anyone on this site talking about any trouble they have had .


That's because they are not having trouble. It's all CNN.

irenemm - 9-28-2010 at 11:16 AM

Oh they are just mad because we are getting new roads south of Ensenada. All the construction is making dust clouds and they think it is something else.
the most dangerous thing is getting the dust in your eyes.
have fun and enjoy the adventure.
the Government just want people to stay home and spend the money in there Country.

It's okay if you repeat the same question asked before...

mcfez - 9-28-2010 at 11:29 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by David K
All you need to do is go to the Baja Nomad Baja Trip Reports forum and read of Nomad's travels...


For you newbies as I was once upon a time here....It was sort of "lost in Space" trying to discovery where everything was...
I didnt have a clue about the <search> button function that is up in the upper left corner of this web page that you are viewing currently. Here's what you'll see:

Search for: "you the Newbie...type in the topic you are Q&A"
by (username): "never mind...u r new here"!
in (forum): "Baja question & answer" gets good results
from: "beginning"

Perhaps you can now find even greater info for your future land voyage...good travels 2 u

There are great folks here....all of us

[Edited on 9-28-2010 by mcfez]

k-rico - 9-28-2010 at 02:15 PM

I was curious so I checked the US Dept.of State's latest warning. It does list specific areas to avoid:

"Recent violent attacks and persistent security concerns have prompted the U.S. Embassy to urge U.S. citizens to defer unnecessary travel to Michoacán and Tamaulipas, to parts of Chihuahua, Sinaloa, Durango, and Coahuila, (see details below) and to advise U.S. citizens residing or traveling in those areas to exercise extreme caution.

It doesn't have any specific warnings about northern baja. Tijuana has calmed down somewhat but the bad guys are still killing each other with regularity, usually in the slummy neighborhoods. I haven't heard of any tourists having trouble in a long time and such events usually get reported on this message board.

I've been driving around TJ almost daily for 4 years, nice car, CA plates and my biggest concern has always been BIG potholes (low profile tires) and overly aggressive drivers.

Here's the latest (this month) state department warning to travelers in Mexico.

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_4755.html

24baja - 9-28-2010 at 03:04 PM

In my opinion it is like driving through various parts of the US cities, if it feels wrong it usually is......be alert to your surroundings.

mooose29 - 9-28-2010 at 03:31 PM

We had one of the top FBI agents thats works the TJ area come to our Rotary club a few months back and speak to us, he said that in TJ they have not seen the cartels targeting tourists in that area.


We have been traveling down to our place in Punta Chivato for years many times a year and have had zero problems. We have experienced many helping hands when broken down or in need of assistence along the road. We have also made some good family friends at restaurants and hotel along the way.


We also travel with kids, dogs, grandparents, friends, cousins, etc... and alsways seem to have a good time.

DENNIS - 9-28-2010 at 04:12 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by mooose29
We had one of the top FBI agents thats works the TJ area come to our Rotary club a few months back and speak to us, he said that in TJ they have not seen the cartels targeting tourists in that area.




Isn't that reassuring.

The day will come when foreigners are the target.
How can you say not? Are we imune for some reason I can't see?

Most Mexicans hate us. That's what they're taught to do. They don't like us.

Bajahowodd - 9-28-2010 at 04:30 PM

As someone who has traveled Baja for over thirty years, and who is headed to Cabo this Friday, I can unequivocally tell you that your greatest potential threat on your journey will be the crooked cops in Cd. Constitucion. Relax and enjoy your journey. I know I will.

chippy - 9-28-2010 at 04:31 PM

"Most Mexicans hate us. That´s what they´re taught to do. They don´t like us."

Man I´m glad I don´t live in your Mexico. What a hell on earth. Why are you in Mexico? Do you even know any Mexicans? Other than an ocasional employee? I must of missed the "hate whitey 101" at my MEXICAN daughters school all these years.

David K - 9-28-2010 at 04:38 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by DENNIS
... Most Mexicans hate us. That's what they're taught to do. They don't like us.


Wow, are you serious Dennis? Why do live there if you think that is true?

Most Mexicans I interact with (on both sides of the border) love us (me, my friends and family)...

If I typed that, wow... I can't imagine the amount of anti DK stuff that would get posted!

I hope you are just feeling overwhelmed or maybe over toxicated to make a statement of such magnitude. Maybe you meant hate some Americans instead of all?

DENNIS - 9-28-2010 at 05:20 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by David K
Wow, are you serious Dennis? Why do live there if you think that is true?

Most Mexicans I interact with (on both sides of the border) love us (me, my friends and family)...




I no longer want to live here. I want out.

You really think you're loved by your Mexican friends? Wonderful. Your friends love you.
Do they really? Have you ever had a heart-to-heart conversation with them?
I know gosh darn well you haven't because you don't have the skills or closeness to these people to pull that off. What you have with these fine folks is great moments with good conversations and good momentary raport.

They don't really like you as an American, David. They may like you as a person, today, but they don't have one bit of affection for you in the long run.
You, and your ilk, have raped and pillaged their land and that's what they're taught in school. We are the conquerers and they are the conquered.
They don't forget that. Their government won't let them forget that.
We are the enemy and the government needs us to blame for all the wrongs.

David K - 9-28-2010 at 06:03 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by DENNIS
Quote:
Originally posted by David K
Wow, are you serious Dennis? Why do live there if you think that is true?

Most Mexicans I interact with (on both sides of the border) love us (me, my friends and family)...




I no longer want to live here. I want out.

You really think you're loved by your Mexican friends? Wonderful. Your friends love you.
Do they really? Have you ever had a heart-to-heart conversation with them?
I know gosh darn well you haven't because you don't have the skills or closeness to these people to pull that off. What you have with these fine folks is great moments with good conversations and good momentary raport.

They don't really like you as an American, David. They may like you as a person, today, but they don't have one bit of affection for you in the long run.
You, and your ilk, have raped and pillaged their land and that's what they're taught in school. We are the conquerers and they are the conquered.
They don't forget that. Their government won't let them forget that.
We are the enemy and the government needs us to blame for all the wrongs.


I am really sorry that your dream is so darkend by your experinces there Dennis... Perhaps because I only travel there and have not lived there is how we have different experiences with the people?

I hope it is someting other than that, because there sure are a lot of Americans who live there... at least half of the time that love the place and the people...

We have stayed with some of them and also have a close relationship with a Mexican family we visit with often and I get no hint of outright hate for us... that is pretty strong. They feel welcome when they visit us here, and we feel just as welcome when we visit them there. We each can laugh at our politicians and history... but hold no blame for actions of the past against the people alive today.

I wish you well where ever it is you move to!

Life is like a mirror...

Mulegena - 9-28-2010 at 06:20 PM

Me, did you ask me? Well maybe, maybe not, but I'm very happy here and I think I would be wherever I chose to be-- its just in my nature to be peaceful, seek out and find it reflected back to me.

Do I feel cared for here? Yes.
Do I feel safe. Yes.
Is Baja one of the most beautiful places on earth? I think so.

Now, I'm going to go walk on the beach in the last sun of the day. The birds are flying back to their night roosts, the animals are fed and I'm contented with another day in Baja, Mexico, and that's good enough for me.

oxxo - 9-28-2010 at 06:28 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by DENNIS
I no longer want to live here. I want out.


Cabo Ron and 5 O'Clock Charlie are alive and well!

Your request is easily granted. Just follow the signs to "La Garita."

(this should be really good. The air popper is on high!) :bounce:

DENNIS - 9-28-2010 at 07:06 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by David K

I hope it is someting other than that, because there sure are a lot of Americans who live there... at least half of the time that love the place and the people...


Yeah...I know that, but do the people really love them?
Probably not if you can accept the fact that their government teaches them to do otherwise.
We are the scapegoat enemy who stole their land want to build fences all over the place.
Doncha get it?
Quote:
We have stayed with some of them


Really???
Quote:
have a close relationship with a Mexican family we visit with often and I get no hint of outright hate for us... that is pretty strong
.

there probably is none...for sure. They're your friends. Call their cousin on the phone and ask him.
Quote:
.. but hold no blame for actions of the past against the people alive today.




How in hell would you know what he's thinking?




I'm done here David, but you have to ask yourself these questions. In other words, ****************************** look at the real world....if only for a couple of minutes. It will surprise you.

Thanks.



[Edited on 9-29-2010 by BajaNomad]

CortezBlue - 9-28-2010 at 08:03 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by loscabos2
we've driven down the Baja to San Lucas a couple of times over the last few years and never experienced any trouble and would like to drive down again next month . Ofcourse now we hear of escalating violence and government warnings to not travel by land in Baja north . I don't see anyone on this site talking about any trouble they have had . Has anyone heard of tourists being carjacked or illegal roadblocks south of tijuanna ?? should I not drive this year ??


I would stay away it is super dangerous.

loscabos2 - 9-28-2010 at 09:18 PM

Hey ...guys ... I started this thread this morning by asking the good people on this site if I should worry about drving down the baja ... and again let me say thankyou to you all for your attention to my worries . Now about the Mexican / American thing please allow this Canadian to quickly say this .... Anyone who doesnot respect what the US stands for and what it has so dearly paid to achieve is simiply not paying attention . I personally believe Americans are the BEST and the WORST at everything and that is what makes the country so GREAT ... infact everytime I hear the late Ray Charles sing his version of " America the Beautiful " I want to sign up to be an American ! Both Mexicans and Canadians are extremely lucky to have the US in their neighbourhood . I really like Mexicans ( I married one ) and she likes Americans because they can be the best ! she doesn't like the worst of Americans ... but who does ? Thankyou all ... ...

grace59 - 9-28-2010 at 09:20 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by CortezBlue
Quote:
Originally posted by loscabos2
we've driven down the Baja to San Lucas a couple of times over the last few years and never experienced any trouble and would like to drive down again next month . Ofcourse now we hear of escalating violence and government warnings to not travel by land in Baja north . I don't see anyone on this site talking about any trouble they have had . Has anyone heard of tourists being carjacked or illegal roadblocks south of tijuanna ?? should I not drive this year ??


I would stay away it is super dangerous.


CortezBlue, Are you being serious here?
If you love Baja...go! Just be aware of what is around you the same as you would be anywhere in the world. I've made numerous trips to Baja over the last six years with no issues. Can something happen? Sure! Can something happen to you at home? Yep! Of course, it only takes one bad experience to ruin everything for someone....just be careful, not fearful!

La_Diva - 9-28-2010 at 09:46 PM

Thank you mcfez, and all of you guys, it is sad people living in fear, how can they be happy.

We are.

DavidE - 9-28-2010 at 09:47 PM

Yeah right, little five year-old Dalia hugging me to death last month crying "I don't want you to leave abuelo!"

There is ALWAYS going to be a hood ornament worn in public by someone who is "different". Do you think my white freaking neighbor here where I am staying gives a damn whether I drop dead on the sidewalk? I may be caucasion but you think that matters one whit?

Blood is thicker than friendship in any one of 150 nationalities.

Go on the internet and see how many ethnic jokes you can find in 15 minutes, hell for that matter see how many Montana based jokes you can find about North Dakotans...

The people where I live in a village of 100 are my friends and like it or not I am their gringo. Most are good people some are jerks. But say, isn't that sort of like what I find up here?

Superdangerous...yeah like the freakin' woman who drove up onto a sidewalk at the Winco store missing me and my cart by scant feet. Seems her texting was more important than driving...

Or the maniac who curses me out for driving the speed limit in a residential area with schoolkids, roars beside me, gives me the finger and tells me he like to "@#$!@&%$#@"

GOD I JUST LOVE IT UP HERE! How can I possibly stand living where they don't worship me?

drarroyo - 9-28-2010 at 10:09 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by DENNIS
[
I no longer want to live here. I want out.


Ta DAAAA !!! well of course!! silly me... no more Sharky's ... no more life! Hey, I sadly get it.
suerte

mcfez - 9-28-2010 at 10:38 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by La_Diva
Thank you mcfez, and all of you guys, it is sad people living in fear, how can they be happy.

We are.



Your Welcomed.
The mood here tonight is very rowdy...not the norm.
Give us a trip update when you go...

mtgoat666 - 9-28-2010 at 11:44 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by David K
All you need to do is go to the Baja Nomad Baja Trip Reports forum and read of Nomad's travels...


yes,... stories of police extortion (don't drive thru cd constitution),... and nomads being robbed,... seems to me that some nomads recently posted stories of home invasions in rosarito and some town in baja sur,... there was recently a shooting in street in front of dennis' local watering hole,... many stories of lost persons,...

grace59 - 9-29-2010 at 05:27 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by mtgoat666
Quote:
Originally posted by David K
All you need to do is go to the Baja Nomad Baja Trip Reports forum and read of Nomad's travels...


yes,... stories of police extortion (don't drive thru cd constitution),... and nomads being robbed,... seems to me that some nomads recently posted stories of home invasions in rosarito and some town in baja sur,... there was recently a shooting in street in front of dennis' local watering hole,... many stories of lost persons,...

Shootings in front of bars, home invasion robberies???? I'm so glad that crap like that never happens up here in the USA...oh, wait....I just turned on the morning news.....

wessongroup - 9-29-2010 at 07:17 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by loscabos2
Thanks ..Dennis ..Desert Rat .. Wessongroup ... for taking the time to respond to me ... I have also called some people in Cabo and apparently this is a case of " much ado about nothing " ... Oh, I also called the Canadian Consulate in Tijuana .... they " cannot comment further than the recommendation on the web-site " . American and Canadian economy issues aside , not all people will take the time to ask you good people or call friends in Cabo to ask what the real situation is .... they will just check the Government travel advisory and decide to go somewhere else .... these irresponsible warnings really hurt the Baja economy .


In the one year I have been living here in El Pescador... 9 miles south of Rosarito Beach, I have seen on monthly basis, troop truck with soliders pull into the compound, unload the truck, and the troops in full gear, and are locked and loaded.. "look" around the place, along with walk the beach checking caves... and any other area which my hide people or drugs for shippment north..

Could watch folks, diving for "packages" left by others to move up the "chain" to the States... people being put into small boats being also moved up the "chain" to the States..

About three month back, they busted a fella that worked here, and some others who were moving the people north... I did know the man, he had been deported from the United States, his wife and children were not... he lost his family, his house, car, job and everything... was put on the street in TJ at 43 with nothing... was able after two years to make his way out of TJ.. (said it was really, really bad).... was able to get a job repairing anything or cutting weeds here... with a one room shack over the side of the arryo .... was a kind man in my mind... he buried my dog Scout, cuz, I could not dig a hole for him.. in my condition.. he was the man, that brought Scout back to me in a plastic bag... he liked Scout too...

But, I digress... this man was "busted" for moving people... I believe he was coericed into doing what he did... as he was not driving a new Toyota, or new clothes.. and was still living in a cardboard shack when he was "busted"..

Last month, they busted a place where we live... 650 kilos of pot

The police are driving through daily now, and the owners are putting steel gates down at the "steps" down to the beach..

I have also seen an Mexican Navy gun boat anchored off shore for days... and also multiple vessels lined up across Desconsco Bay... to prevent small boats from getting from down south, La Salina to Rosarito, Pototalla Primo Tapia, or any other landing along the coast ..... from La Salina north.. to Rosarito.. believe.. the route must go on the old road to TJ after they have gotten the drugs and/or people to Rosarito.... just my guess

I we get stopped and pulled over into the inspection lane, in both the Crown Vic and the Bronco going up to Rosarito for shopping, either on the Toll or old road..

We have not been robbed, or anything close to it...

But, there is "action"going on at all times around you... if you don't think so..... well, you don't think so... does not mean it's not going on...

Also, as for Mexican's... married one too... 43 years ago... and recall being the only "grino" at family gathering in the mid to late 60's .... durning Via La Razza... I was someone that just sat there and kept my mouth shut... those Mexican people were not happy with the "white eyes".. and why should they be...

The Mexican people, were overrun by European's who took there Country from them by force, destroyed their culture and their religion ... and as late as 1920 were insuring that they realized their place in a white society....

I grew up with people calling Mexican's "spicks".. and with the thinking they were lazy, dirty people... my mother still thinks that way.... and lives in VA.. now.. she fells much more comfortable... and she does not have anything to do with her 31 year old grandson who is a "half breed" in her mind

She would not go to Baja, but, my Dad took us kids.. said you need to see how the other half lives.... he was talking about "poor people".... as he had been one in the darkest days of the depression, and even before the depression... as his dad was poor as was his grandfather, and...et al... was a poor family that lived off the land... that's was the way they live...

They came to this country in 1657 as slaves.. after serving their time.. they took off into Indian terrritory .... seems the Wesson's have always been off the grid to to speak... thy just don't like folks telling them how to live... nor are they "joiners"...

Well, we did see poor Mexicans when coming down in the early 1950's and it did make us appreciate how much more we had...

My Dad always had an open camp... come in and your could eat.. need some help, you got it... equal opportunity helper... to all

I try and still live that way now... even with the other going on here in Baja... have given two business pressure water sprayers to help them in their working on cars, and to reduce their business costs ... always asking for if they need auto repair, body or engine while down here... try and get business for folks the best I can... always seeing if there is a way to help, if I can... more into idea's.. how to manage a business, how to reduce risk.. in some cases just really very simple things we just know you have to do in a business they don't do... and it ends up costing them big PESO'S .... the Government, local, State and Fed.. does not help out small business's they suck the life out of them... it is really bad .... for small business's trying to get started .... shure.. if you are Toyota, or Sony and you set up shop, it's a lay down to some extent... but... over all it very hard for Mexican's to get a small business off the ground... its not that they are not trying..

I'm rambling.. but just trying to say, it is a nice place (environmentally speaking).. the folks down here have it hard... always have and most likely always will... but, it is their Country, and they are Mexican's.. we are foreigners ... glad that most are as civilized as they are... says quite a bit about how nice the people are which is derived from their "culture" ....

And there is one thing I KNOW... I'm not a Mexican, and will never be, and even if I get a FM2, FM3 or what ever, get a Fido.. et al.. I will never be Mexican.. and will never be able to walk a mile in their shoes... and they sure in hell know I'm not one of them... oh, thats right only white people are racist ... doesn't happen in any other race.. :lol:

I find that most of the Mexican men I talk with and women are no different than me... they need the same things and have much the same wants... they are after all human beings ...

They just got the luck of the draw ..... was talking with a bunch of guys... Mexican ... told them .. you should stop your crying ... you could born an Iraqi ... they busted up laughing..

Yeah it can get worse... hope it does not, but I don't hold out any real hope for the "poor"

Poor folks have always been flocked over, and always will be .... they nail a guy to a cross over trying to stop the condition ...

And there is always danger when people are struggling to survive

Would not tell anyone not to go for a drive on Mex 1 all the way to Cabo... but be forewarned there are banditios out there... real ones.. not movie kinds.. and they will take everything... and they might even shoot you too... that's life... down in Baja..

Have a good time... but, don't think it's all roses and lilac's .... if you do ... hope your only looking out for yourself... not a family

drarroyo - 9-29-2010 at 07:23 AM

One of the truly impressive traits of the mexican upbringing, is their incredible perception when it comes to evaluating folks. They can spot a true A$$hole immediately!! These types suffer from the get-go and most don't last long.
Some try to stick it out but in the end .... all suffer the same fate.
So LosCabos2 .... heed the advice of all the good folks here ... stay aware as you would anywhere ... and you'll have a blast with the great folks of Baja. (try to avoid drunken / angry expats above all else!!)
paz

tripledigitken - 9-29-2010 at 07:25 AM

Wessongroup,

Honest and heartfelt analysis of living in and visiting Baja.

Thanks!

The present times tests one love of Baja.

jmho

Ken

oxxo - 9-29-2010 at 12:32 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by wessongroup
Would not tell anyone not to go for a drive on Mex 1 all the way to Cabo... but be forewarned there are banditios out there... real ones.. not movie kinds.. and they will take everything... and they might even shoot you too... that's life... down in Baja..


We have made somewhere between 12 and 15 round trips from Tecate to Cabo over the last 5 years, just two old fogies. We have never seen any hint of bandits in those trips. All we have found is warm, friendly Mexican people that have helped us out in a pinch a time or two - refusng any kind of compensation.

When was the last time a tourist was robbed along Hwy 1? When was the last time a tourist was killed along Hwy 1? That's not to say there aren't thugs out there somewhere, but there are thugs everywhere. In my opinion, your chance of running into one south of Ensenada is less than NOB.

Pompano - 9-29-2010 at 12:53 PM

I don't know that part that the US and Canadian officials are advising against visiting.

Guess I'll just play it safe and go back to Baja.

La_Diva - 9-29-2010 at 02:58 PM

Very well said oxxo, Thanks for not being a scary cat:D

wessongroup - 9-29-2010 at 04:03 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by oxxo
Quote:
Originally posted by wessongroup
Would not tell anyone not to go for a drive on Mex 1 all the way to Cabo... but be forewarned there are banditios out there... real ones.. not movie kinds.. and they will take everything... and they might even shoot you too... that's life... down in Baja..


We have made somewhere between 12 and 15 round trips from Tecate to Cabo over the last 5 years, just two old fogies. We have never seen any hint of bandits in those trips. All we have found is warm, friendly Mexican people that have helped us out in a pinch a time or two - refusing any kind of compensation.

When was the last time a tourist was robbed along Hwy 1? When was the last time a tourist was killed along Hwy 1? That's not to say there aren't thugs out there somewhere, but there are thugs everywhere. In my opinion, your chance of running into one south of Ensenada is less than NOB.


"Banditios" is the operative word in that part of my recap summary of one year in Baja Norte, which is the area which was "identified" in said report.

As Dennis point out already, I also believe it is directed at those areas which are experience extreme violence.. Juarez, Monterey, State AG's, City mayors, and other elected officials are being assinated, these areas are more likely the thrust of the advisory or bulletin which is the topic of this thread..... I have not "read" said document and was only giving some "input" on travel in the North area which I'm somewhat aquatinted with, having living there for the past year.

I don't believe I implied either directly nor indirectly that Mex 1 was unsafe... as a matter of fact I stated I would NOT advise against its use to Cabo nor did I include the Mexican people as anything but super...

As far as deaths associated with driving on Mex 1, have not been keeping count by Nationality, sorry... but, I know a woman's baby was killed on Mex 1 by a rocks thrown by stupid young men.. they will pay for the rest of their lives for this stupid mistakes ... along with the family of the poor little baby who was killed by a rock ...

I'm sure there our other examples of pain and suffering.. I don't try to stay on that stuff to much.... life is hard enough.. don't need to add more too it.....

Was only suggesting, that one should error on the side of safety... while traveling in Baja...

My other statement as "worded" was intended to make it a bit lighter and humous, in a fashion, "Banditios" or bad folks are out there and keep your senses about you... it's a vacation, but stay awake....

vios condios :):)

knuckles - 9-29-2010 at 04:37 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by wessongroup

We have not been robbed, or anything close to it...

But, there is "action"going on at all times around you... if you don't think so..... well, you don't think so... does not mean it's not going on...




And those who spend any amount of time down here are aware of it. There is a difference between what you see when you are on a "trip" versus trying to live your everyday life. The long timers know it has changed a lot in the last 10 years.

Some of us are still drawn to the Baja we each know and love. I must be hooked like a junkie, yeah I know its bad for me but I still need my fix.

Dennis, I guess you have been to rehab and are over it. Hope you are not trapped and can make the move you desire.

Bajahowodd - 9-29-2010 at 05:21 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by oxxo
Quote:
Originally posted by wessongroup
Would not tell anyone not to go for a drive on Mex 1 all the way to Cabo... but be forewarned there are banditios out there... real ones.. not movie kinds.. and they will take everything... and they might even shoot you too... that's life... down in Baja..


We have made somewhere between 12 and 15 round trips from Tecate to Cabo over the last 5 years, just two old fogies. We have never seen any hint of bandits in those trips. All we have found is warm, friendly Mexican people that have helped us out in a pinch a time or two - refusng any kind of compensation.

When was the last time a tourist was robbed along Hwy 1? When was the last time a tourist was killed along Hwy 1? That's not to say there aren't thugs out there somewhere, but there are thugs everywhere. In my opinion, your chance of running into one south of Ensenada is less than NOB.


Gotta jump in here again. I'm with oxxo on this. Go and have fun. The chances of you encountering a criminal situation are equal to or probably less than in the states.

wessongroup - 9-29-2010 at 05:35 PM

Now who in the hell said not to have a good time !!! ...

Jump where you want... but, I never said anything about having a bad time in Baja.. here is what I said... for the "record"

"Have a good time... but, don't think it's all roses and lilac's .... if you do ... hope your only looking out for yourself... not a family"

And that goes for anywhere ..... for the record ...

DENNIS - 9-29-2010 at 05:49 PM

Yeah....Have a good time.
-----------------------

Editorial in El Debate:

Lawless Cities

The violence in Mexico, as we know, does not have faces, names or a public conscience. The agenda of organized crime is but one: to take control.

And, here we are looking at small cities in various states where we mourn the loss of 11 mayors whose lives were ended by gunshots or stoning like what happened to the City Councilman in Tancitaro, Michoacan.

What is worse is the gloom brought by such instances. As happened in Santiago, where Edelmiro Cavazos was murdered, one of the gangster triggermen revealed that the Municipal Police had asked the Zetas to liquidate him because he simply did not get in line.

We are in a true state of failure where organized crime is settling its feuds in cities torn apart and deprived of security forces and order that can prevail.

In Tancitaro, all the town council had denounced the threats and a councilman’s life was lost because of that stance. Mexico is losing its ability to govern little by little. From the moment in which authority cannot survive the situation, we are in the hands of the underworld which drives the pieces left of the government at its whims.

We saw this in the attacks on the news media and its reporters. Yesterday another reporter was murdered after barely reporting the robbery of arms from the Chihuahua State Police. Here they (organized crime) were trying to control what is conveyed to the public and to report only what they want, when they want.

The concern of the politicians should not be [which party wins]. The real reason to give them anxiety toward 2012 should be if there will be authority that can reign with moderation and liberty in all corners of the country.

It is not merely because they are small cities. Hell should be enlarged.

http://www.debate.com.mx/eldebate/Articulos/ArticuloOpinion....

Bajafun777 - 9-29-2010 at 07:59 PM

Ok, I was traveling through T.J. yesterday and my Jeep stop right on the hill past Rosarito on Free road on my way to the Sentri. We were on the hill incline and lots of traffic behind us. Had to get out and start flagging big trucks and cars around us.
My wife asked three guys in a truck passing to help us move the Jeep off the road that had a very deep drop off from the road. The three guys stopped and jumped out and helped us and then a tow truck was going by on another call and the three stopped him and pressured him to take us to a mechanic up the road.
The tow truck driver took us about 7 miles up the road to a mechanic and as we were off loading the jeep, I saw a wire hanging down under the jeep. It appears the wiring to my electronic brain in my Jeep came off and the mechanic hooked it back up, tied it off to prevent it from happening again and all he wanted for payment was two sodas. Had $10 left from the tow that cost me $30 dollars as I was planning to get money in San Diego that morning after we crossed.
So, I know it is dangerous and yes I have worries too but there are sooooo many kind people in Baja don't judge them all because of the Rats!!! Sort of like judging all of L.A. or N.Y. because of all the Rats, bad things happen but so do good things. I will not live my life in fear or stop my travels because of the Rats but yes I will have my eyes wide open all the time!! Take Care and Travel Safe----- "No Hurry, No Worry, Just FUN" bajafun777

krafty - 9-29-2010 at 10:16 PM

Dennis, what you said about 2012 could also be applied to the US- we are a world in flux-
and baja fun-that is a wonderful story and one I am not at all surprised at-we live f/t in Rosarito and cross often -no worries-we are always common sense careful, as I was everywhere we lived-which was a couple of years in Guam, which is curiously similar to MX-:yes:

wessongroup - 9-29-2010 at 10:34 PM

Bajafun777 Ditto's... have not meet anything but, the kindess people down here... when up at the house up north, I don't have women open doors for me... or help me across streets... may be they are trying to pick me up or I remind them of the father... or most likely their grandfather ....

Have even had women, help push my cart to my car... the guys that help direct parking get my keys and open my Bronco for me at Walmart, when I come out the door and puts my stuff in .. and then gives me a helping hand and/or push to get into the drivers seat...

I as for the folks causing pain a suffering... those that are doing wrong... maybe if they had a different chance growing up, different parents.. el al.. they might have turned out differently... but, at this point you should just be "careful", like you said...

Don't condone any of the acts which hurt so many people.... in the movement of drugs and cheap labor up across the border to the United States.... and all actions required should be employed as quickly as possible to stop the slow bleeding that both sides of the border are faced with from the production, transportation, sales and use of drugs... of all kinds.... on the people at this time

Know it all been said before, but i haven't said here today.... soooo

Guam.... really funny a guy I know ... saw pictures of La Fonda in La Mision ...... said my "God it looks like Guam"... never been there... he just said the rooms were moldy for the AC being on 24/7... (in Guam)

krafty - 9-29-2010 at 10:48 PM

so true! very humid with a year round temp of about 85, give or take a few degrees. no time change so it is the same sunset time every day-the skies are not to be believed there-was quite the awesome experience-the local peeps there are Chamorrans