BajaNomad - Baja crime compared to Central American crime

Baja crime compared to Central American crime

lesd - 10-26-2010 at 09:50 PM

I'm headed down to Guatemala,Honduras and Nicaragua for a break, and have been reading on the Internets that the crime rate is pretty high. From reading between the lines of the state dept. reports on Mexico and C.A., the difference seems to be tourists are targeted way more in C.A. than in Mexico.
I'll be traveling with a group of 8 people or so, and had planned to take my big 'pro' camera, but I'm starting to shy away from the big camera deal because of all the robbery stories I am seeing.

Do any of you have first hand experience with the mood down there recently ?
The economic conditions as of late have been making things even worse from what I know.
thanks

mcfez - 10-26-2010 at 10:01 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by lesd
I'm headed down to Guatemala,Honduras and Nicaragua for a break, and have been reading on the Internets that the crime rate is pretty high. From reading between the lines of the state dept. reports on Mexico and C.A., the difference seems to be tourists are targeted way more in C.A. than in Mexico.
I'll be traveling with a group of 8 people or so, and had planned to take my big 'pro' camera, but I'm starting to shy away from the big camera deal because of all the robbery stories I am seeing.

Do any of you have first hand experience with the mood down there recently ?
The economic conditions as of late have been making things even worse from what I know.
thanks

Guatemala...been there. It's not Mexico. Nor any of the other countries. You cannot compare the issues of each country. Each has it's own issues of history, politics, economics, so forth.

Not bragging...I have been to many countries. Use common sense when traveling. Stay away from depress areas, stay in at night, dont dress like a freakin rich Americana. I would say as before in this forum.....I'd be just as concerned traveling in my birth town Los Angeles, or Fresno or Redding!

[Edited on 10-27-2010 by mcfez]

dtbushpilot - 10-26-2010 at 10:32 PM

Went to Guatemala last year, rented a car and drove all the way across the country and back (mi bonita esposa Jilliana's idea). My observations:
It's not Mexico, they don't speak Mexican but then again....neither do I.
Everyone has a gun, a big gun with bandoleers of ammo over their shoulders...no, they weren't soldiers, just guys wearing dirty jeans and tee shirts with guns. I think they were "security guys" for the most part.
For the most part the folks there are poor, don't flaunt wealth or expensive stuff (cameras, jewelery, watches etc.) and try not to act like a tourist (they will know anyway, can't fool them).
They don't smile and wave at everyone like they do in Mexico. You can and should smile and wave at them but don't get your feelings hurt when they don't wave back.
Go see the Mayan ruins (Tikal etc.) a visit to Guatemala isn't complete without it. Drive the speed limit in the National Park at Tikal, they issue you a time stamped ticket when you enter and if you get to the other end too soon they will give you crap. Just smile and say "no fumar espanol"
Guatemala is a beautiful country, it's not quite like Mexico but similar. Be smart, don't do anything that you wouldn't do while visiting any other foreign country and you'll be fine.
Have a fun trip......dt

Bajatripper - 10-27-2010 at 12:01 AM

Actually, I've always been surprised (so far) that tourists HAVEN'T been targetted in Mexico. With the Mexican government openly declaring war on the cartels, targeting tourism seems like a no-brainer response by the cartels, hit the government where it hurts the most. Yet that hasn't happened. I've often wondered what the difference is between Mexico and such places as Bali, Egypt, Peru, etc. But I am grateful that they have to date not resorted to that.

DavidE - 10-27-2010 at 08:20 AM

My Mexican friends laugh and say "David, nobody is going to rob you --- the car you drive and the way you dress, they are afraid if they stop you, you will ask them for a handout".

Like anywhere else new, I always opt for at least a modicum of security until my feet get on solid ground by looking around and asking questions. Most of the crime occurs like it does in Mexico in cities and large towns. Pilfering and sticky fingers is a way of life for too many young people.

Bugman - 10-27-2010 at 08:55 AM

I was in Guatemala and El Salvador in May and had no problems at all. The same common sense rules that work well in Mexico also work in most other countries. I had a great time by the way and would go back without hesitation.

bugman

durrelllrobert - 10-27-2010 at 09:09 AM

before I moved to MX I had a Guatemalan wokrer and I bought him a chain saw as a partingf gift (he was flying home). on the bus between Guatemala City and his village he was nearly beaten to death and the chain saw stolen. he did not look like a tourist either.

[Edited on 10-27-2010 by durrelllrobert]

Cardon Man - 10-27-2010 at 09:17 AM

The above posters are right on. Central America ain't Mexico. But common sense goes a long way. Use it and you'll have a great time.

Here's a map to help you stay out of trouble

vgabndo - 10-27-2010 at 07:29 PM

This will only help if you are traveling through Los Angeles on your way to a dangerous foreign country.

Compton, Gardena, Hawthorne...that's Freeway 110 running up the middle. It is only the blue and red areas that are controlled by heavily armed terrorist gangs. Just be careful not to trample on their Second Amendment rights.

http://www.streetgangs.com/maps/southla_turf.html

Enjoy Central America. I LOVE Belize.

[Edited on 10-28-2010 by vgabndo]

lagangmap_05.jpg - 14kB

Handy Advice

MrBillM - 10-27-2010 at 07:48 PM

I'm sure that all of those who "might" be considering a Tourist jaunt to Hawthorne, Gardena, Compton, Lawndale, Watts, Wilmington, Boyle Heights and the like will appreciate knowing those destinations (despite the wealth of spectacular attractions there) could involve a degree of danger.

I can't count the number of people I've met on a daily basis who have been contemplating vacations in those scenic areas and need advice regarding the best resorts and restaurants.

Mexicorn - 10-27-2010 at 08:23 PM

Ho Hum! Que nuevas gente?
La vida de crimen-
Ho Hum Boring!

OK

lesd - 10-27-2010 at 09:48 PM

FYI , I live in Los Angeles. We have about a murder a day here, and yes, that is mostly gang stuff.
Guatemala City has about 10X that, with a smaller population. ( and the homicide rate is very likely under reported there, as their police and justice system is total crap )

The other difference is in Los Angeles, tourists are generally not targets because they don't stand out and they are not gang members. I was just on Jury duty on a gang member-gang member murder trial, learned a few things there .

The thing that prompted me to post my initial question is the numerous posts on adventure travel sites that alerted me to the out of control sounding crime rate in C.A. . I am trying to see if it is greatly exaggerated, and how it relates to white dudes with cameras. I don't feel like being a war photographer on my time off, if that's what it would be like carrying my Pro gear. Slinging a $7K camera *may* be a problem.

The thing that really irked me about your post is the implied assumption that I am a goof ball American tourist that hesitates to leave the USA. Not the case here, bro. I've been all over SE Asia and India, countries with a lot of poverty, and never had any issues with possible crime. And I'm not talking tour bus trips with fat assed Farangs, I'm talking riding a small motorcycle in the most remote regions of Vietnam near the Chinese border, as well as Hanoi where the traffic would blow your mind.
The concern is that reports of crime against gringos in C.A. is much much higher that those other places I've been.

-L

Quote:

Originally posted by vgabndo
This will only help if you are traveling through Los Angeles on your way to a dangerous foreign country.

Compton, Gardena, Hawthorne...that's Freeway 110 running up the middle. It is only the blue and red areas that are controlled by heavily armed terrorist gangs. Just be careful not to trample on their Second Amendment rights.

http://www.streetgangs.com/maps/southla_turf.html

Enjoy Central America. I LOVE Belize.

[Edited on 10-28-2010 by vgabndo]

You'll be a long way from Baja...but, the experience is worth it!

Ken Cooke - 10-27-2010 at 10:21 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by lesdI am trying to see if it is greatly exaggerated, and how it relates to white dudes with cameras. I don't feel like being a war photographer on my time off, if that's what it would be like carrying my Pro gear. Slinging a $7K camera *may* be a problem.

I've traveled to Central and South America numerous times over the past 4 years, and it would not be prudent to bring your expensive $7K camera - probably more of a pain that you brought it for fear of losing it, or having it stolen.

Watch/Listen for a motorcycle in the event that you have it out on the streets - you could get held up for it at gunpoint, and the assailants will be able to get away within seconds. That's the way Gringos get got. Being African American, I sort of halfway blend in if I dress to local standards. But, talk with the Taxistas and don't carry your expensive gear into the barrios if you can help it.

Santa Marta del Rodadero, Colombia

Steak's cooking in Bogota

Tbone - 10-28-2010 at 05:54 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by mcfez

Quote:

You would be just as concerned walking around in "Redding" as you would be in Guatemala or Honduras. get real

Bob and jane - 10-28-2010 at 07:23 AM

I've been researching online for an upcoming trip to Guatemala. Haven't been there in 30 years. Nothing that I have read indicates high crime rates or attacks on foreigners. Sure there is some crime and pockets are often picked. The state department is, as usual, the most alarmist site. We'll be driving a truck with a small camper and plan on avoiding Guatemala City and taking some back roads. I always feel more comfortable in rural areas. Haven't read anything yet to make me nervous about Guatemala.

rob - 10-28-2010 at 07:41 AM

I was hoping someone would mention El Salvador in the context of this thread - have a (perverse?) hankering to go there. I saw El Salvador at the the top of a list of the World's Most Dangerous Countries (murders per '000 pop).

You rarely see a mention of the place in the news, tourism appears to be about zero (logically), and real estate at a standstill because there appears to be no security of property (as in the new mayor may want your lot).

Has anyone on the board been there?

rob

Cardon Man - 10-28-2010 at 08:40 AM

rob...I've been to El Salvador but just driving through to points south. The people were great for the most part, the food was good, the beer was good, prices right...but I found myself on edge far more than I do in Mexico. Perhaps because all the friendly folks we met urged us with all sincerity to be carefull, don't drive at night, avoid this place or that. You'll see plenty of guns too so if that makes you nervous...be warned. We never passed through San Salvador and didn't miss it.

mcfez - 10-28-2010 at 09:09 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Tbone

Quote:

Originally posted by mcfez

Quote:

You would be just as concerned walking around in "Redding" as you would be in Guatemala or Honduras. get real

Do your homework before mouthing off.

Redding.....is the home of the Redding California Chapter of the Misfits. Should you not know who these boys are....They are hard core bikers. In fact...they challenged the Hells Angels in the 80's and early 90's in a turf war that they basically won.

Also in Redding....number one crank (Meth) lab capital of the world (90's). Ever dealt with crank'ters ? Bikers? Well...I have ...having owned 5 night clubs in Sacramento and San Fransisco in the 80's till 2001. Been on several "runs" with the boys, being an invited guest. Having gone to Redding on many occasions....I wouldnt have my kid walk around at night.

No bad guys in Redding you think? Deal with a tweek that has been up for ----days-----!

Now.....stop telling me to get real.

[Edited on 10-28-2010 by mcfez]

Bugman - 10-28-2010 at 02:03 PM

I was in El Salvador for about a week back in May of this year. The people were all very nice and I did not have a problem. However, I did spend most of my time in more rural areas where life in general seems to be more at ease. You do see more guns and armed guards in the big cities but out in the country I felt perfectly safe. Common sense is all you need. I would not hesitate to go back and I am very "gringo" in appearance.

vgabndo - 10-28-2010 at 02:50 PM

No offense LESD, I'm sure you will be very well informed and take all the required precautions.

As a patriotic American, I just thoroughly resent that there are a LOT of places in the state where I was born and raised which I can't safely visit (if I wanted for some insane reason to know what a cesspool like Compton looked like.) because the places are controlled by domestic terrorists.

Where I live, we only lock the doors when we are leaving for vacation. Around here I like to wear a bandana around my head to keep the sweat off my glasses. In LA LA Land, that innocent act could get my brains blown out.

I recommend a radical scum-ectomy for South Central LA. If you leave that cancer untreated it'll kill you faster than breathing the air. :no:

mcfez - 10-28-2010 at 03:55 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by lesd
FYI , I live in Los Angeles. We have about a murder a day here, and yes, that is mostly gang stuff.
Guatemala City has about 10X that, with a smaller population. ( and the homicide rate is very likely under reported there, as their police and justice system is total crap )

The other difference is in Los Angeles, tourists are generally not targets because they don't stand out and they are not gang members. I was just on Jury duty on a gang member-gang member murder trial, learned a few things there .

The thing that prompted me to post my initial question is the numerous posts on adventure travel sites that alerted me to the out of control sounding crime rate in C.A. . I am trying to see if it is greatly exaggerated, and how it relates to white dudes with cameras. I don't feel like being a war photographer on my time off, if that's what it would be like carrying my Pro gear. Slinging a $7K camera *may* be a problem.

The thing that really irked me about your post is the implied assumption that I am a goof ball American tourist that hesitates to leave the USA. Not the case here, bro. I've been all over SE Asia and India, countries with a lot of poverty, and never had any issues with possible crime. And I'm not talking tour bus trips with fat assed Farangs, I'm talking riding a small motorcycle in the most remote regions of Vietnam near the Chinese border, as well as Hanoi where the traffic would blow your mind.
The concern is that reports of crime against gringos in C.A. is much much higher that those other places I've been.

-L

Quote:

For all my friends here:
Farang is the generic Thai word for a Westerner. Sounds degrading eh? Its not.

Sorry lesd......your assumption of peaceful Los Angeles's crime rate is incorrect. Dare you to take your bike and camera to Bell, Ca for a stroll.....The dope heads will attack skinny and fatty Farang there, or anything else that moves at night. ...even Russians will get their share of a head banger....to buy a dope bag.

No one implied that you are naive. You were just getting information from our perceptive minds. You should be saying "thanks for the help all"........and just digest the information that is useful to you. Hell...I never take anything here personally (0)(0) !

[Edited on 10-28-2010 by mcfez]

I was there

Ken Cooke - 10-28-2010 at 07:06 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by rob
Has anyone on the board been there?

rob

San Salvador City was quiet. It didn't look dangerous at all. I was there in 2008.

Ken Cooke - 10-28-2010 at 07:11 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by vgabndoAs a patriotic American, I just thoroughly resent that there are a LOT of places in the state where I was born and raised which I can't safely visit (if I wanted for some insane reason to know what a cesspool like Compton looked like.) because the places are controlled by domestic terrorists.cancer untreated it'll kill you faster than breathing the air. :no:

I visited there in June at the home of my relatives. A young Latino rode his Horse down the street where my family lives, and the small plot of land behind their house was being farmed. It looked like it did in the 80s when I visited there more frequently, but crime is still a problem there.

lesd - 10-29-2010 at 01:17 AM

I will take the usual precautions, and it should be OK, I guess.

L.A. is pretty bad, I didn't mean to paint it in nirvana terms. I work here because it's where my line of work is. After the economy collapses a bit more, it will start to look more like C.A. , I am pretty sure. I am working on a plan to evacuate before it gets too bad. I am a patriotic person as well, and am proud of the country that the last two or three generations built. I too am saddened by what has happened : The freedoms that built this country so well have now over-shot and come around to bite us in the form of an entitled generation of clerks and cashiers with few real skills. But I digress.
I'll be taking my truck to Baja once again in November, for just a few days, I always feel more free down there for some reason.
-L

mcfez - 10-29-2010 at 07:44 AM

lesd what route have you decided on? Place here the route and we all can advise you on road conditions ........to great places to visit. Keep us posted and have a great trip.

BTW: I love Mexico. Been going there for ever.... 30 or so years. I love it because it seems that there is much more freedom than any other country I have ever visited (or lived in!)! I concur with you about the freedom Sir!

[Edited on 10-29-2010 by mcfez]

Ken Cooke - 10-29-2010 at 09:22 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by lesd
I will take the usual precautions, and it should be OK, I guess.

L.A. is pretty bad, I didn't mean to paint it in nirvana terms. I work here because it's where my line of work is. After the economy collapses a bit more, it will start to look more like C.A. , I am pretty sure. I am working on a plan to evacuate before it gets too bad.

After visiting the barrios of Cartagena and Barranquilla, the bombed-out northern section of Lima, seeing that country's Military Police patrol their section of the Amazon looking for Shining Path ParaMilitary Troops, is Los Angeles really that bad?

Not really.

[Edited on 10-30-2010 by Ken Cooke]