Mexico Travel Advisory: DON’T GO!
UPDATE, Feb. 23, 2009
The US State Department has issued a new travel advisory, warning of “large firefights” across Mexico. “Recent Mexican Army and police confrontations with drug cartels have resembled small-unit combat, with cartels employing automatic weapons and grenades”. Mexican President Felipe Calderón has sent more than 40,000 troops across the country to fight drug traffickers.
Vacationers from Canada to San Diego are suffering increasing dangers in Mexico. The Canadian ‘Sudbury Star’ reports that a couple, Jules and Jo-Anne Lapalme, and another couple were vacationing in Cancun and the men were accused of committing an unstated sex offense against a female hotel employee and threatened with arrest by the hotel manager and 4 aggressive employees. They were told to sign a confession to “make it go away” and after refusing, the police, who were waiting outside, came and arrested them.
These tourists were sporting expensive jewelry and the whole affair was an obvious set-up. At the station, they were told to pay $160 to have the charges dropped.
Sound like a fun vacation? Would you pay $8000 for that experience? They did.
Federal agents said kidnappings of U.S. citizens by Mexican gangs in Tijuana, Rosarito Beach and Ensenada are becoming more common.
Local FBI agents told the San Diego Union-Tribune that at least 26 San Diego County residents were kidnapped and held for ransom in the three popular Mexican communities last year, compared to 11 in 2006.
“Some of the 26 were recovered, some were hurt and some were killed.”
Back in Canada, supporters of Ontario native Brenda Martin, imprisoned in Mexico for nearly two years without trial, are demanding their government exercise its legal right to ask for an immediate ruling asking that the charges against her be thrown out because her constitutional rights under Mexican and international law had been breached.
Two years in a Mexican prison without a trial?
Not by car, not by boat. John Long was found dead on the Mexican coast under suspicious circumstances after setting off in his boat from Alameda, California. The boat was aground, nearby. The Mexican authorities, who have been completely uncooperative and have repeatedly changed their stories, have been demanding exorbitant amounts of money from the Longs, including $30,000 to tow the sailboat to a nearby port.
Would you expect that treatment from Canadian or U.S. authorities? Not in a pigs eye.
In May 2007, Jeff Toews, 34, of Grande Prairie, was left clinically brain dead after suffering what his friends and family insisted was a brutal beating at a Cancun resort. The Toews family ultimately decided to have him removed from life support.
Mexican authorities said Toews sustained his injuries after falling from a second-floor hotel balcony. But Toews’ family and friends, many of whom were on the same vacation, protested the official explanation was lies and maintained he had been brutally beaten, possibly at the hands of hotel security guards. Friends and family accused Mexican authorities of covering up a crime.
This is Mexico. They will kidnap you, beat you, rob you and kill you. They’ll put you in prison without a trial. Every police officer is on the take and so is every government official. The Mexicans have become more arrogant with the breakdown in border security and now they think they can do anything they want to us stupid Gringos.
And if you go there you will be proving them right.
**This was written by Rastaman as a production for The Coalition Against Illegal Immigration (CAII).
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February 9th, 2008 at 10:14 pm
THE LAST TIME I WAS DOWN THERE I WAS IN NUEVO LAREDO. I WAS ON MY HARLEY, AND I KNEW THAT I BETTER JUST TURN AROUND AND GO BACK WHICH I DID. I MIGHT HAVE STAYED IF I,D OF HAD SOME SIG SAUER INSURANCE, BUT I DID,NT. MY SISTER WAS DOWN THERE IN JAN, AND SHE SAID SHE WON,T BE GOING BACK ANYTIME SOON EITHER. IT JUST AIN,T SAFE ANYMORE.
February 10th, 2008 at 6:21 am
Rast,
I have known about others who have experienced the same things and worse in Mexico years ago. Since the peso devaluation in the early 90’s, things have become much worse.
Anyone who goes to Mexico is placing their trust in a system which doesn’t give a damn about you or the objections from your government. Often the travel industry takes advantage by offering shoddy services even if there are no encounters with criminal terrorists or blackmailers.
The only people who need to go to Mexico are the illegals who swam the river into the US and the leftists who invited and encouraged them.
February 12th, 2008 at 8:02 am
Your money goes to Mexico’s southern border…
Bush to secure Mexico’s Southern Border by Toni at Bear Creek Ledger Remember that honking omnibus bill signed without most legislators even knowing what was in the thousands of pages of funding? WELL, tucked into that funding is $1.4 BILLION…
February 12th, 2008 at 3:04 pm
Mexico Travel Advisory: DON’T GO!…
…
March 13th, 2008 at 7:19 am
What are you? Stupid? Don’t go to Mexico. This is what has happened to me and my buddies and their wives and girlfriends while on our last Off-Road, fishing and drinking tequila fest which we used to do every year for the Baja.
Monica was stripped searched by the Federales who decided she had big tits. It didn’t matter that she was a little drunk and had on a swimsuit that didn’t leave much to the imagination. Her guy got slammed against the jeep when he protested.
I had to pay what cash I had in my wallet and in jewelry - good thing I wore my cheap watch instead of my Tag Huer. All told I got soaked for $1,800 and change.
Jim, he got it worse because he didn’t want to take their crap so he got the living crap beat out of him. They broke two front teeth, a bloody mesh.
Jennie was felt up and then they pretended to bang her from behind just to get us to protest so they could have their jollies. Assholes.
As a group we felt lucky to be back in the good ole USA and will never, NEVER go back. They took one sandrail, two ATVs, a trailer and a Ford Expedition 4 by. The consulate denied everything and the US liason shrugged his shoulders. Jim, he wants to go back and get some revenge but I think he is smarter than that.
Any college kid or adult that isn’t a Mexican can only be Stupid to go to Mexico. It’s not worth your life being threatened by some moron with an automatic that wants to feel you up and take your stuff
June 5th, 2008 at 9:18 am
Don’t get me started on Mexico. I don’t trust the place and I don’t trust the people there. Just my two cents.
June 16th, 2008 at 9:21 am
thanks i love it
June 25th, 2008 at 4:56 am
I agree 100% ….Dont Go to Mexico. I was in Cancun, May 2007, when Jeff Towes “fell” to his death from a balcony. I did not know this until later, but I feel so sorry for his family. While I was there, only 2 days after this “accident” I was brutally raped, beaten unconcious and left for dead by a security guard who offered to walk me to my hotel “for my safety”. There was a witness to this, who told police that “she is not his first victim, only the first to go to the police”. And as of today, neither of these men have been arrested due to the process of Mexican law. There have been signed arrest warrants since July of 2007, yet they are too busy to go and get these monsters off the street. And worse, since my attack I have found 2 other women who were also raped down there, and told NOT to bother with the police becuase nothing can be done. This is a sick and twisted third world country and if something happens to you, there is NOTHING that the US government can do to help you. Please, tell everyone you know….NO GO MEXICO…NO GO MEXICO….NO GO MEXICO…
September 20th, 2008 at 8:37 pm
If you go to the mall in the U.S you may get murdered. Ifyou go to CHURCH in the US. you may get murdered. If you drive on a highway in the U.S. you may get murdered! There have benn mass shootings in ALL these, and other places in the U.S….but people like to concentrate on the occaional reports of crime from Mexico and ignore the things happening in the U.S. There is crime everywhere. If you come to Mexico and spend your time hanging out withdrug dealers in a border town, you will be exosed to crime. If you walk around in the middle of the nte, drunk, hang out in bars, flash money and act like an idiot, youwill be exposed to crime. If you come, use thesame common sense you do at home and visit the majority of Mexico…which is safe…you will be fine. I am an American woman living alone in Mexico…and know many others…and am perfectly safe. I have put a link below for a similat question a few days ago…good answers there for you to read. I watch the American news here every day…and if i judged the u.S. by the reports of crine i see On this AMERICAN news channel…I would think the U.S. is too dangerous to go to too.
November 9th, 2008 at 9:21 pm
I stayed in a waterfront condo with brother and his family In Playa del carmen.Everyday I was asked if I was alone by the men. When the residents would walk past they would have these happy mexican smiles on but i’d catch them flippin the real face on when I turn around fast!! They look like lizards so scarey .Try it you’ll see . These people on Mexican Riviera hate us Tourists because they live in a society RIFE with corruption. We must look spoiled and rich to them.I had a waiter try to extort money from me until two gentleman told him they’d throw him in the sea if he didn’t stop asking for my wallet. I saw the federales at night creeping around the beach and hotels I felt the evil vibe as soon as I landed in Cancun. A woman no matter what you think you look like is safe these cops are BAD. My nephews friend was extorted for cash because these machine gun bearing freaks saw him talking to a girl from Playa not a tourist they said to him pay us $$ we wont put her in jail ,that girl must be loaded by now. We were there for a week I was constantly around my big necked brother because he was so scared something would happen to me.I love my solitude you cannot go off alone because you will most definately have something happen. When I arrived home I had 2 surprizes the house keeping ladies helped them selves to some clothes and my debit card had been invaded by the Scotia bank machine in Playa del Carmen guess what? The guy in the office beside the bank machine was on his computer stealing from peoples accounts and he doesn’t have to pay my bank back a cent. In my life I have had friends who were involved in criminal behavior and I’d tell them don’t complain about the people your dealing with and wether what they do to you is fair you are in the underbelly of society you can’t call a cop! I Can i’m honest. Mexico is worst then a third world country because the people in power bloody know what’s what and they DO NOTHING .OH yes They make commercials for Albertans to visit the wholesome Mexican Riviera.when people from our province die there every year. When you go there and crime happens to you ,you are contributing to the continued evil corruption that lives there sorry but your foolin’ in the underbelly and That’s a Fact you can’t call a cop . I will never go there until they reform themselves which will be never! Hey all you creepy Mexican tour operators reading my rant feeling all uncomfortable with the truth!~ come up to Alberta where you will understand you are prisoner’s of your evil governments. People go through life doing the average everyday safely.you have people from your Playa and Cancun living and working here and they love it. .Thanks for listening folks
November 9th, 2008 at 9:36 pm
Wow. Excellent rant. I posted this 9 months ago and it’s still getting comments, continuing proof that Mexico is a bad place to visit.
November 17th, 2008 at 8:56 am
You know, I think the US should implant all violent criminals with microchips and track them via GPS. How come they never thought of that is a mystery. Or are they already doing it? When the whereabouts of criminals can be pinpointed at any moment on a screen, that would effectively spell an end to their criminal activities. Imagine, police could just zero in to suspects anytime and apprehend them. The technology already exist out there, so what’s the hesitation? Is it some misguided ideas about rights violations that place the bad guys’ rights above that of the majority of law abiding citizens that is getting in the way?
November 30th, 2008 at 7:51 pm
Well if your a fat ugly ,stupid, ignorant, american thats your fault and theres plenty of you down in Mexico…..Ive traveled alot and Mexico is awesome I was more scared in LA. Yes stay away and dont ruin it for the rest of us. Believe the Hype they feed you on TV and stay home safe and sound.
November 30th, 2008 at 9:03 pm
Hype? I was in Baja a few months ago at a resort, sportfishing, and even there it’s bad. Mexico truly sucks and my fishing partner and I both agreed that we’d given Mexico more than enough of our money. Those people are assholes.
December 14th, 2008 at 10:37 am
I am a 56 yr old AMERICAN male. I am married to Mexican Lady from central Mexico. We have been married for 6 Great Years. She has strong Morales as well as respect for others, no matter what Nationality. These admirable traits were taught to her by her Father in Mexico.
I have learned that all peoples in Our World have Good and Bad people. Our Country as well as other Countries in this world have Gangs, Corruption, Murders, Rapist, Theives and yes, ASSHOLES. We are Blessed to be living in a Great Country of Opportunity and Plenty. Notice the local and national news. Do we not have many of the negetives in Our Country as others do? Should other countries Judge us as a whole by Evil that is commited by the few?
I agree that we have less rights and security in other countries, but perhaps other people are in the same boat when they visit us.
My Point: Everyone has Assholes as well as Opinions. Think About It!
Have A Great Day and a Merry CHRISTmas America!!!!!!
December 14th, 2008 at 11:51 am
By your grammar and spelling I can see that you are also an immigrant. Welcome to the USA.
I’m glad you have a happy marriage to a Mexican national. Were you also a Mexican national before you came here? Did you come here legally? Did she? Are you really a naturalized citizen of the United States? I sure hope so.
The fact that everyone has assholes and opinions has *what?* to do with our problems with Mexico?
I missed that part.
December 15th, 2008 at 6:12 pm
Passing Stranger,
Number 1: Is attacking my grammer and spelling the best you can do?
2: I was born and raised in the USA.
3: Our Armed forces are fighting in other countries to help the oppressed little man and protect our country.
4: I as well as many others, am not happy with the invasion from the south.
5: I have compasion for people in general.
6: Would you have the BALLS to leave your country that is oppressed by Government Corruption to better your life and the life of your family?
Finally: Does it mean that everyone in America are ASSHOLES because members of our families are in danger of Rape, Robbery and Murder when we go to malls or stores or travel in general?
Please fell free to Spell Check me if this is an Issue for you!
December 15th, 2008 at 8:01 pm
1 and 2: He didn’t attack your grammar or your spelling. He commented on it as being indicative of your being an immigrant who has a native tongue other than English. If you’re sensitive about your level of education, may I suggest you do something to improve it? Bitching out those who mention it won’t make anything better.
3: Yeah, we all know that. Your point is?
4: Okay….
5: That’s wonderful. Thank you for sharing.
6: You mean, should we all leave the U.S. and go to Mexico because of all the government corruption, like Bush and Obama and the governor of Illinois and so forth? No, What patriotic Americans do is stay and fight against the corruption, UNLIKE ALL THE MEXICANS, WHO BAIL OUT LIKE RATS FROM A SINKING SHIP.
Finally, No, dummy boy, it means that all those Mexican criminals who invaded our country are assholes. Please don’t comment here again until your IQ exceeds 70.
December 30th, 2008 at 11:51 pm
Stifle People making all this racket , *MEXICO IS CORRUPT (* when I say this I mean the “structure” that is in place to run the show,Mexico the Country not every individual human being in the confines of it borders)….I do not lie & before responding in any way to our statements of evil in Mexico READ and study YO! ’cause this page is favorited and i’ll eat you alive….Stupid suntanners who are drunk from touch down to lift off …don’t see reality even in their own countries god bless ‘em. I have a lot of Spanish friends from South America. They watered the seed’s, in my educating myself on the futility of Mexico’s third world status, they f’en like it! because it makes the ones at the top sick rich and sprinkles money on the creeps at their feet( who do the dirty work) and so on and so on .The people who live there are born into it they have to play the game or starve and that is so weird to me I will never go back ever ’till the people are free from the pressure the corruption puts on them
In regards to Mexican media They Lie they said a beautiful couple from Montreal were murdered by a Canadian hitman when it was one of the uniform freaks they have all over Playa at nite * the truth that lizard saw their wealth and got caught trying to steal it… a coupla strokes of his blade and off he dissolves into the Mexican haze …that’s Evil Later Tater’s
January 1st, 2009 at 1:27 pm
I just returned from a little town called Bonanza…its in Chiapas Mexico and I thank the lord that I was able to get out alive and safe! Yes, I was VERY stupid for going with a man I thought I could trust just to visit his family, but the minute we arrived in Mexico his face turned! THANK GOD this guys brother, who heard from family memers that I was there, drove 5hrs to come and get me and take me to a hotel to get me out; I arrived Dec 19th and was trying to get out by the next morning… It was very scary and I seriously feel traumatized by what I had experienced.
The vibe I recieved from the locals was not a pleasant one and I couldnt go outside on the weekend because I was told the local men get drunk and “take” the woman. I was left alone many times by this guy and treated like a prisoner. There were no phones, running water, taxi’s, busses, anything! I couldnt get a flight out and Portland wasnt allowing flights in…with the help from friends in the US i was able to get a flight to Seattle on Dec 24th and figure a way home from there….I took it!!!
In between me arriving and leaving I and my belongings were searched by the men with the machine guns and I basically hid when the police drove by…I felt so alone, so trapped, and very scared that anyone could take my life and no one would care, or be beaten by this awfull guy i went with (which it was threatened so I shut my mouth!)
Yes, I was very stupid for going and especially to a non-tourist place (obviously that wouldnt have mattered any way!)..the reason Im writing is to get a little off my chest…not working so far!
January 9th, 2009 at 6:59 pm
Thank the lord jesus god you got home .You saw the face yep very scarey indeed. You should report it to your government.Our country says you are not safe and that they can’t help us if we disappear or get hurt. Please write that country off your list tell your friends and leave notes of your story on every message board you can. Say who he is warn others of his existance you make sure you get a big man in your corner if he comes to your life again and change all your contact info if he’s a brute he wont care about our laws he’ll just do it.
January 15th, 2009 at 5:39 pm
My wife and I will be traveling to Cancun in a few weeks. This will be the third trip for us into Mexico. Six years ago we travelled to Cancun and had an enjoyable stay. Two years ago we travelled to Puerto Vallarta and thought it was a wonderful trip. We are enthused to be going back this time.
I’m sorry to hear of other people’s stories while in Mexico. We’ll keep these in mind while traveling.
January 15th, 2009 at 11:12 pm
RonMexico……… P.T. Barnum was right.
January 23rd, 2009 at 7:54 pm
Canadians with more than 2 brain cells are staying away from mexico !!the seat sales are so cheap and were still not going!!haha Mexico thats what happens when you ignore your biggest defect your a bunch of corrupt polititions squeezing your people so hard they are desperate to steal or leave .Hey all you travel agents in Mexico I know your writing these pro mex stories so piss off and go do some intranet fraud. Love and kisses “safe in Canada”
January 23rd, 2009 at 8:18 pm
Lone Stranger Answer:” There’s a sucker born every day!!!” that’s for the ignorant peeps who don’t know what you meant lol
January 28th, 2009 at 8:12 am
MEXICO CITY — Thieves apparently targeting people who exchange money at Mexico City’s international airport have shot a French citizen in the head.
Authorities are warning that gangs have put lookouts at exchange windows in the airport terminal.
The 55-year-old French biotechnology researcher, who works at a Mexican university, was attacked and robbed of ($6,336 US).
It happened on a street near the airport.
Assistant city prosecutor Luis Vasquez and police say the victim is in serious condition at a local hospital.
Officials at the French embassy say they could not confirm the victim’s name or home town.
Mexico City police chief Manuel Mondragon said criminal gangs have posted lookouts at some of the money exchange businesses inside the airport.
The lookouts tip off associates waiting outside who rob the victims after they leave the termina
January 28th, 2009 at 10:43 am
The only people who should be going to Mexico are the illegal aliens. Mexico is a Hell-hole from one end to the other and EVERYONE there is out to get anyone not from Mexico first, and each other, second.
Why do people THINK that 30 or 40 million of them have LEFT? When even Mexicans don’t want to live in Mexico, how stupid can you be to go there? And it’s rapidly getting much, much worse.
Read Ashleighs comments and think about it.
January 29th, 2009 at 11:05 am
Ever since my trip to playa del Carmen I have made it my cause to not travel to any countries where the same rights I Have in Canada, are not afforded to the people who live there. Therefore I have passed up, since my trip to playa, two trips to Shanghai,2 to Singapore 1 to to a Moslem country and oodles to different warmer climate countries. It makes me sick we do trade with these pigs. My husband has to go and consult for his co. Basically our lifestyle kinda contributes to the continuing global success of these uncivilized countries believe me we are working hard at creating a business here that would end the trips to these evil places. I guess what i’m saying is we are all responsible in affecting other countries bad politics by stemmin’ the flow of $$$$$$ It’s been happening to Mexico this last year I think we can see the mexican’s are ramping up the violence on tourists Because: there’s less tourists ,Less crime loot to go around .
January 29th, 2009 at 11:57 am
Well Traveled:
then you will be for sure in a nightmare like in the movies, guaranted.
You are right, you can travel many times to Mexico without any problem as long as you don’t have any trouble, abuse, or drive with a rented car plate
FYI: You don’t need to be a traveler to get it, you can be a Mexican too !!!
I am from there, lived in Mexico City for 20 years and in Cancun 18 years, and as a Mexican and business owner I can tell you it can be much much worse than this stories, which usually remain hidden. There is no police (yes, in that sense), no justice, and lots more corruption and evil than you can see in the TV, for sure the US Travel Advisory is true, and in my opionio they are always short.
FYI:
I am part of that 40+ million ouside of the country now (and not in the US), my english may not be perfect but sure I am not an orange picker. Many Mexicans leave their country every year due the absolute corruption and not for money, looking for better life and due the fact it is impossible to deal with corruption there since people in general belive that is normal. (As a matter of fact, the number of Mexicans outside the country is bigger than the population: 110 M).
Yes, US have it’s own things and is shitty too and the social security is a joke, but nothing compared, you can’t smoke, you can’t do this or that, but at least you can go to a police station with your wallet in your pocket… (this does not mean they are not corrupt also).
(I lived 2 years in US, so I know what I am talking about).
To close this, just today, I received a message from Cancun hotel industry board looking for a Mexican mid-class 28 years old guy disapeared on Jan, 19 2009. A mid-class guy ! not even from an accomodated family anymore…
For all interested in real Mexico, try to find a recent documentary made in Europe called “Narco Mexico”, is just a sample in my opinion but reflects preety well the real real thing.
January 30th, 2009 at 9:25 am
Hey Juan no argument from me in regards to this not being a racial issue. I realize it’s political corruption for sure!! I can’t imagine the frustration you and the good people from Mexico must feel at the absolute evil that can happen to the innocent there. When you use the term “orange picker” ….is that in response to the american anger at so many Mexicans being there ? Don’t get me started on the beautiful mansions created for americans at bargain prices ,By the hard working Mexican men and women they love to hate.Makes me sick .America created this dilemma for themselves that’s a whole blog onto itself! But not like Canada’s perfect either the majority of Canadians don’t understand in a concrete manner what we took away from the “First Canadians”,” Indians” in your country. Jaun what is mexican mid class? Whats accomodated family? I’m now going to find that Doc. Narco Mexico Thanks alot get your friends to write here maybe we’ll shake things up.Because if you read the pro stories here and on other blogs it’s so obvious it’s the Mexican tourist people, not regular folk like yourself. ; ) Adios
February 6th, 2009 at 7:09 am
Well, big bummer!!
My girlfriends and I are leaving the 18th of Feb. to Cancun, and now I’m worried!
I’m an american, but I have lived for short stints in Mexico twice.
I’ve only ever had trouble in the remote areas.
We are staying in a big resort, all inclusive, and we are going to relax, not party like kids. But I’ve never been to this part of Mexico before.
I doubt we would cancel, we are too excited for the vacation we have been planning since last Sept.
Now I’m a little scared, and I’m one pretty tough and street smart cookie.
I wanted to go to the ruins on the tourist bus, is that safe? Is that little Pirate Dinner Cruise safe to the island? Do you think if we play it low key, and stay close to our resort we’ll be safe enough?
I must admit, I’m more worried someone will rob me at my office than in Cancun. The crack heads robbed an insurance office down the street from us this year! And we are in a good area!
February 6th, 2009 at 9:20 am
Lucy…
Stay in a large group on tours. The ruins are spacious and it’s easy to get separated and alone or with one or two others, which is what robbers look for. Remember that YOU are the money source for the area, as a tourist.
Don’t take anything fancy or expensive, such as rings or other items, NEVER leave anything of value in your room and if you take a camera, keep it with you and hidden except when you use it.
Don’t rent a car or take road trips with a few friends only. Stay around lots of people.
DO NOT exchange your money at the resort. You will be given two thirds to one half of actual value, plus you’ll give away how much money you have. Do your money exchanges at a local bank and look up the going exchange rate before you leave. When you do exchange dollars for pesos, do it in small quantities rather than all in one big lump, as you will be observed in the bank. If you display a lot of cash, you’ll be in real danger.
DON’T get drunk. Avoid alcohol in Mexico unless you’re at the poolside in your resort, WITH FRIENDS, but then drink lightly. You’re being observed. Always remember that someone looking for victims is very likely watching you and your friends.
Stay alert and use caution. Consider that you’re going into an area where there’s lots of wild animals and since none of you have guns, your best protection to scare off predators is having a large group. Look at it that way, and stick to the rules, and you should have a fine time.
Then don’t ever do it again.
February 7th, 2009 at 6:23 pm
Lucy when the sun starts gettin low beetle your hiny’s back to the resort if some one has to smoke in the dark be there with them. Watch the beach as soon as it’s pitch dark out you’ll see the security guys creeping the beaches. Take 500.00 us keep your visa hidden on your person. ,I wore capris to town with a pocket that snapped shut I kept small bills in my front pockets. No purse. Better yet if you hook up with some North american guys bring them on your outings. Good luck
February 9th, 2009 at 3:51 pm
Woodbridge couple murdered in Mexico
Found in room with their throats slit, report says
Kelly Patrick and Natalie Alcoba, National Post
Published: Wednesday, February 22, 2006
A Woodbridge couple attending their daughter’s wedding at a posh Mexican resort on the Mayan Riviera have been found viciously slain in their rooms.
Press reports said the bodies of the husband and wife were both found with their throats slit. Pamela Greenwell, a spokeswoman for Foreign Affairs Canada, confirmed a Canadian couple had died in the Mayan Riviera, near Cancun, and that Mexican police authorities were investigating. She would not release their names or any information about their deaths.
However, the Playa Del Carmen newspaper Quequi reported yesterday the deceased were Dominic Janeiro, 59, and his wife, Annyziata, 55.
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Dominic Janeiro
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The newspaper said the couple arrived at the five-star Barcelo Maya resort on Saturday morning with 18 guests for their daughter’s nuptials. According to the newspaper, the group held a party on Sunday evening that lasted until about 2 a.m. Afterwards, Mr. Janeiro and his wife returned to their room at the Maya Caribe, one of four intertwined resorts in the Maya Barcelo complex located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, about 80 kilometres south of Cancun.
When the groom’s parents tried to phone the Janeiros early the next morning, there was no answer. Suspicious, they contacted the bride — whom CityTV reported was a salon employee named Lilly — groom and several other guests and knocked on the Janeiros’ door. There was still no reply, the newspaper reported.
A resort staff member with a master key opened the door. Mrs. Janeiro’s body was found in the bedroom. Her husband’s was discovered in the ensuite bathroom, the newspaper reported. Both their throats had been slit — Mr. Janeiro’s from ear-to-ear– according to the paper, which also said a knife that appeared similar to those used in the resort’s kitchen was found nearby.
Although a lamp had been knocked over, drawers opened and the couple’s personal belongings strewn about, nothing valuable was missing, the paper reported, adding authorities were treating hotel employees as possible suspects under the theory that the couple may have interuppted a robbery in progress.
Nick D’Alessandro, the couple’s nephew, told CityTV the family was in shock. “Everyone needs to go through their grieving process and wait. We want answers just like everyone else does. So we hope we get them.”
February 13th, 2009 at 10:47 am
Chickenshits!
February 15th, 2009 at 4:45 pm
Idiots!
February 15th, 2009 at 6:10 pm
In 2007 the United States had
16,204 MURDERS… Mexico had 13,144
95,136 RAPES… Mexico had 14,373
2,238,480 ASSAULTS… Mexico had 253,847
420,637 ROBBERIES… Mexico had 147,775
Which country is safer?
February 15th, 2009 at 8:23 pm
Yes, our crime rate has gone through the roof with the massive invasion of illegal aliens, most of whom are Mexicans with no regard for our laws, as they never learned any regard for their own.
If you’re going to present figures, don’t forget to take into account WHO committed the crimes. While you’re at it, consider these figures:
Population of mexico, about 100 million
Population of USA, about 310 million PLUS about 40 million Mexicans.
Mexico had only 3000 less murders with less than one/third the population of the USA. This means that the murder rate in Mexico is about THREE TIMES WHAT IT IS IN THE UNITED STATES!
You people defending Mexico are a joke. According to the Pew Report, 1 in 36 adult male Hispanics in this country is in jail or prison. That’s the ones who didn’t make it back across the border fast enough after committing their crimes.
Mexico and Pakistan are now listed as the two most unstable nations on Earth.
All Mexican authorites are corrupt down to the last little policeman or clerk.
The drug wars in Mexico are a direct threat to our country and Mexican criminals are escalating their kidnappings and murders across our borders.
Mexico is increasingly lawless and unsafe. Which country is safer? Are you serious? If you think it’s Mexico, then PLEASE, go there and stay there and be happy.
February 20th, 2009 at 7:33 am
RevBrown,
Look at numbers before posting vital statistics. The true percentage when looking at population figures show a better picture.
US population 303,824,640
Mexico population 109,955,400
In 2007 the United States had
16,204 MURDERS… Mexico had 13,144
95,136 RAPES… Mexico had 14,373
2,238,480 ASSAULTS… Mexico had 253,847
420,637 ROBBERIES… Mexico had 147,775
These are REPORTED crimes and although I am sure there are crimes that go unreported in the US my bet would be that there are many more in Mexico. It would also be interesting to know what the number of Mexicans involved in the crimes in the US may be.
This is NOT about Mexican people because there are a large percentage of Mexican people that are great people. This is more of an issue due to lawlessness that goes on in the country and the corruption in the government and police. If that is not fixed it will never be a truly safe place or a place that can thrive on tourism. The opportunity is there for this country to be a major vacation destination which could create more jobs with better pay which in turn would stop some of the crime.
There was a show on not to long ago on cable (can’t remember which channel) which did a special report on the crime going on in Mexico. The one thing that stood out to me is that the drug lords are using kids under 18 to commit murders and paying them $300 - $500. They interviewed a few 14 year old and they said they would do it because they was no work they could make that type of money at and they would get minimal sentences because they were minors. This is what is being taught to the younger generations there?
I use to travel there often for work (plastics) but in the last 6 months I have refused to go there due to the uncertain safety. Thankfully my company understands and agrees with my concerns. In time, if more and more business thinks this way it will kill the little bit of business going there and it will get even worse. They will only have themselves to blame for this.
February 22nd, 2009 at 8:15 pm
Hi, I live in a northern state of Mexico, I found this thread today while looking for information about the perspective of other countries about what has been going on here. I am doing this to inform myself about how people view us as a country.
Well, my opinion concerning the topic of tourists coming down here is that although it benefits my country (well that also depends on who you ask) I would not advice my friends and relatives in other countries to visit the country unless they take some measures such as those advised by RASTAMAN and Ashleigh.
If interested i too could present you with another point of view as a Mexican that still lives in Mexico. I might be young (i´m 20) but i could present a different perspective to yours as non-Mexicans/tourists, Mexicans who no longer live here or foreigners who are living here.
February 23rd, 2009 at 12:35 pm
I have worked in Mexico, Peru, Chili and Columbia. I was shot at in Peru by the Sendero Luminoso. I was robbed by the police in Columbia. But nothing happened to me in Chili or Mexico. When I was a teen ager growing up in Idaho, I was falsely accused of a crime. I was arrested and beaten by the police. When living in Southern California I was pulled out of my car and badly beaten (no not by Mexicans). When this happened I was able to get the plate number and several first names of the people that did this. But the police did nothing. The worst thing that ever happen to me in Mexico… Well I got a ticket for skinny dipping. Look at all the gangs in the U.S. look at all the Drug problems. Are you really so naive that you believe there is no corruption in the police forces across America. The only difference between the police there and here is they are more open about it. I was just reading the other day about a cop that got prosecuted for molesting 5 kids. Yes, there are more people in the United States. And maybe 1 out of ever 36 Males Hispanics are in jail. But the majority of those Hispanics aren’t illegal immigrants they are American Citizens. Race isn’t why they are in jail it is education. But that is another issue. I’m not saying that Mexico is Safer than the United States. I guess what I am saying is open your eyes and see what is really going on don’t be so quick to judge or condem.
By the way, ours is the top 20 most dangerous counties in the world Mexico isn’t listed.
Editor: This is an absolute LIE! The US is not listed on any “top 20 most dangerous” list. Do a Google search.
February 23rd, 2009 at 3:28 pm
You might have a point if there actually was a decent comparison between Mexico and the U.S., but there isn’t and I fail to understand why people, such as yourself, insist on trying to make that comparison.
Yes, there’s crime in America. Oh My God, who would have thought? Come on, man.
February 23rd, 2009 at 8:41 pm
I actually went to mexico last week and i had the best time of my life! there are crimes everywhere. fucking pussies
February 24th, 2009 at 9:07 am
You had fun and no problems so everyone else is wrong. Okay. Ever hear of the Darwin Principle? Keep going to Mexico, perhaps you’ll remove yourself from the gene pool.
February 24th, 2009 at 7:12 pm
I hate to think that people of other countries might be judging those of us here in America, by the corruption in our government, or by the “American” rapists, theives, and… criminals in general. We do have our share you know.
Mexico is like any other country. It has its bad and its good, just like we do. I go there quite frequently and have never had a problem nor have I felt unsafe. As long as you use good judgement, just as you should here in the good old U.S. of A., you will be fine. Don’t go to places that are known for the violence, such as border towns especially. But I wouldn’t go to certain parts of L.A. or South Chicago either. Just use your head!
So, Rastaman, are you from or affiliated with the caribbean in any way? I am asking because you call yourself “Rastaman”. Root; Rasta, from Rasta-fari. Originating in Jamaica. With all the travel advisories issued in the past regarding Jamaica, St. Croix, etc… do you advise people to stay away from there also? Come on. Get real.
Response: Not be in Charlotte Amalie now, sweetbuns, ya knows anyway da Rasta speak all be put on, hey? So here, me talks like here, and now we be done w’dat. K? BTW, Rastafarianism didn’t originate in Jamaica with Bob Marley, he just popularized it. The Lion of Judah, Ras Tafari, not Rasta-fari, sweetum, was accepted as Christ, or at least Divine, in Ethiopia first. Most of the modern Rastas have corrupted the Faith.
Sure there’s crime in Jamaica, there’s crime in Ethiopia, but I don’t live there. I live here so I talk about here. I talk about the crap America does and the crap American politicians do and I talk about the mess both America and Mexico have made of each other. My last trip to Mexico was to the tip of Baja for a sportfishing trip, and I barely escaped a Jeep full of armed policia because the dock master gave me a load of crap and I turned my back on him and walked away. For that he was going to ramp up a bunch of false charges on me and have me imprisoned.
Cabo San Lucas used to be one of the safest places in Mexico for rich fishermen. Not any more, they’re having major economic problems and they’ll screw you out of your money now any way they can. It’s bad and I’m telling people about it. If the truth offends you, don’t read it.
February 24th, 2009 at 7:17 pm
Hello all…I’ve been to mexico a couple of times, but none of the “tourist-y” areas. My husband is from a small town in a northern state (for anyone who’s interested-he’s a US citizen) and we just hang out there. We find that most of the drama occurs if you flash money or put yourself in the center of attention. We’re heading back in a couple of weeks and sure I’m scared, but I also know that I could get robbed outside my apartment here! LOL
I guess the best advice is just to be aware of your surroundings. Don’t get drunk in an area you’re not familiar with and never be alone…thats when stupid stuff happens.
Mexico is a wonderful country to visit, but sadly things are going bad everywhere. Just be smart if you travel and that’s to any country.
February 25th, 2009 at 12:22 am
Contents of this comment were deleted for being all insult and making no point. Remember, this is my blog. It’s like my house, I try to be a gracious host but I will only tolerate just so much from my guests. Rasta.
February 25th, 2009 at 12:28 am
Is it safe to go to Columbine ,Virginia Tech, the malls and to Church?. was it safe on the beltway.? There are an estimated 50 serial killers at work in the U.S.as I am typing this..
200,000 MURDERS iN THE U.S.A in the past ten years.
Most of the violent cartel action is a product created by America and their lust for drugs.
The sheer millions of “Drug Addicts” is responsible most of the violence here.
If I were you I would find a way to move here where you WILL be safe (if you stay out of the drug trade.)
Was it safe to go to the world trade Center.?
Most Mexicans(99%) you will see go about their business and really dont even notice you.(Unless you are white as a ghost) then you will get a stare or two from some.
Your fear of Mexicans is somewhat racist that you think they all are the same.
Because one black person kills someone would you think they are all a threat.
Most Mexicans raise their kids properly and the church in my barrio is packed every Sunday.
Mexicans judge people on their merit and are very friendly.
Cancun had a few Murders last year and had 1.75 million people pass through .
I believe Washington and Detroit have similar numbers for a combined total of about 1,600 murders and you are worried about coming here?.
February 25th, 2009 at 10:33 am
LOL they just keep coming back here and raving about how wonderful Mexico is and how fucked the USA is but that doesn’t stop them from running out of Mexico to here like rats from a sinking ship. If you love it so much, MEXICAN, then why don’t you stay there?
That was a horrible cheap shot about the WTC, we were hit with a terrorist attack 6 years ago and you say that makes America unsafe? You dirtbag.
February 25th, 2009 at 2:20 pm
The amount of ignorance I see here is amazing. I see some intelligent people, but most of you seem to be basing your opinions on prejudice and not fact. Any way, if you think Mexico is so dangerous, why not go to New Orleans. I hear they had a great time during Carnival this year.
February 25th, 2009 at 2:58 pm
See what I mean? All these people who want to compare crime in the US to crime in Mexico. Let some light in here. If a woman gets raped in the US she can go to the cops and the rapist will be PROSECUTED. Her family doesn’t have to PAY THE COPS TO GET THEM TO ACT. Okay? Here, you can have words with a shopkeeper and just walk away. Do that in Mexico and your ass is slammed behind bars. The honest Mexicans who’ve left comments here admit it’s just as bad for them in Mexico as it is for us turistas. You don’t dare display any signs of wealth, if you want to keep it. You’d best not be out in the countryside where the local cops can work you over and take everything you have. And on. And on.
Whether the crime rate in Mexico is higher than in the U.S. isn’t the real point. The point is that in spite of all the bullshit comments left here by Mexicans, our police forces and prosecutors are pretty much all straight arrow while the ones in Mexico are universally CORRUPT, and THAT’S WHY Mexico has gotten so damned dangerous for us.
If you can’t figure that one out and see it for yourself, then you’re the one who’s prejudiced.
February 25th, 2009 at 3:33 pm
I live in Mexico…I feel safer here than I would in LA, Chicago, Houston, etc. As long as your not a drug dealer or a cop…you should be fine. The US has thousands more homicides annually than mexcio…get over it guys…stop watching the news….its there jobs to sell this crap.
February 25th, 2009 at 5:45 pm
Another one comparing crime rates. Ok, compare this:
http://mjperry.blogspot.com/2009/01/crime-good-news-in-us-bad-news-in.html
“Good News: Crime is declining in the U.S., see chart above. (Chart shows virtually all crime in the U.S. down an average of about 4% in 2008.)
Bad News: Crime is increasing dramatically in Mexico, especially for murders related to drug trafficking (5,637), which more than doubled in 2008 from the previous year. To put Mexico’s murders in perspective, consider that there have been “only” 4,224 American war casualties in Iraq during the almost six years since the war began in 2003.”
Mexico has just been upgraded to 5th Worst Crime Rate In The World this month of February.
Selling us crap, huh? I think you’re the crap seller here, Nate. The U.S. DOES NOT have 1000s more homicides than Mexico, our murder rate is 4 in every 100,000 people. Mexico’s is 18 in every 100,000. Look it up, dude.
February 25th, 2009 at 6:16 pm
LISTEN UP: ANY FURTHER COMMENTS BLATTING ON ABOUT COMPARATIVE CRIME RATES OR MEXICAN HISTORY, OR JUST PLAIN RANTS TRYING TO PROVE THAT MEXICO IS SAFER THAN THE UNITED STATES WHEN WE ALL KNOW THAT’S A LIE, WILL BE DELETED. STICK TO THE THREAD OR GO AWAY.
February 26th, 2009 at 12:23 pm
While in the Navy stationed aboard the USS Ranger at Subic Bay, Philippines I had explored the area by myself many times and even took a week off and went by local bus to Baggio in the mountains. BY MYSELF! Everytime I came back to the ship my fellows bunkies would tell me their misadventures; like getting attacked, robbed, knifed, thrown in the heavily polluted Subic Bay river and so on. While my stories were all pleasant; meeting new and exciting people, being invited to go out with them, treated well, taken to their homes to meet their families, invited back and so on. The difference between me and them was that I was aware of my surroundings, pleasant with everyone but cautious at the same time; always on my toes, but still pleasant, staying away from places that looked unsafe, not going to out of the way spots. Generally being a curious and kind tourist taking an interest in their life styles, their language, their culture. Never once did I experience a bad time.
I have been in Mexico many, many times. Traveled throughout the country by car for a couple of months with a friend. Been to Tijuana, Ensenada, Guadalajara, Mexico City, Merida, Cancun, Baja, Cabo San Lucas, Durango, the Yucatan. Never ever experienced anything bad. NEVER!
While in San Francisco as a resident I was robbed by knife point, jumped by a bunch of young blacks, beat up by an out of work drunk lumber jack, ripped off by a financial manager.
I’ve been to Moorea in the Tahiti Islands, Hawaii, Singapore, Hong Kong, Canada and across the U.S. as a hitchhiker and lived on both U.S. coasts.
If you’ve had misadventures in your travels, it is not so much as where you went as it is about who you are and what you do.
All my misadventures, and those written above, were things that could have been averted had I been paying attention, been aware and paid attention to my intuition. In looking back at those bad incidents, I realized that had I used my head, paid attention to my intuition, I could have avoided those incidents.
There are bad people everywhere, in every occupation, race and neighborhood. All you need to do is look for them and act in a way that makes you a likely target and sure enough, something bad can and most likely will happen.
That all being said, my wife and I are planning a trip to southern Mexico next month.
February 26th, 2009 at 12:43 pm
In other words, all of you out there who’ve been raped, robbed, beaten, imprisoned and otherwise abused, have only yourselves to blame. It was all your own fault.
You were just too stupid to stay out of harms way. When you were attacked the assaulter had the right to attack you because you went where you should have known better than to go. In fact, you should go back and apologize to your rapist/corrupt cops/robber/assaulter for making a criminal out of him/her/them by becoming a victim,
Did I miss anything?
Thanks for the travelogue. The word “fatuous” comes to mind…..
February 26th, 2009 at 10:35 pm
I love you Rasta keep the thread yo!!! I travel all the time I have never had the evilness set upon me like it did in Mexico WORD UP!!Travel agents we know you are writing these positive mexico is a happy shiney country bullshite stories.All our leaders are talking about it right now because the peoples of the powerful countries that have laws that for the most part protect all it’s peoples are in a Quandry because we(the people that vote and have a say) don’t want to do business with countries that are EVIL. At the end of the day…. The countries like Mexico that won’t guarantee the people in this world that have the wallets safety while visiting are going to lose because we have the power that’s how it works.The people in Mexico need to bleed in the streets to show the world how corrupt their government is and how they treat their own people like dirt. Hey Rasta just note on America the Past 9 years has been a torture for America Intelligent people all over the world know this people who come on here all righteous about Mexicans crossing into the U.S. they don’t know the sequence of events on that and the issues regarding how californians secreted away their illegal workers there is a long history and it’s important people not mix up these 2 very seperate issues. To me it would be like me saying which I do in the privacy of my breakfast table( ” shit honey how come only brown people are killing each other in our city wtf??) It’s a whole other freakin blog
February 26th, 2009 at 11:02 pm
here’s more statsI can assure you that the crime being reported is only a fraction of what is going on in Mexico. According to CIAM Cancun, an organization ran by world famous journalist, Lydia Cacho, for abused/raped women and children, 82% of all crimes reported are never investigated and 92% of all crimes go unpunished in Cancun and Acapulco alone!
I can speak from experience that if something does happen to you in Mexico, the police will NOT help you. I was brutally raped, beaten unconscious and left for dead by a security guard. There was an eyewitness to the attack who told police that “she is not his first victim, only the first to go to police”, within hours of the attack. Yet today, over 16 months later, NO ONE has been arrested in my case, although there is an arrest warrant signed by a judge in July of 2007 for both men.
Please take a moment to visit my website and read my story along with stories of other victims of violent crime in Mexico.
http://www.ithappenedinmexico.com
February 27th, 2009 at 10:45 am
RASTA erase this motherfucker You sat “DONT GO TO MEXICO” hahahaha but you still comming bitches for a ass beat hahaha fucking gringos, we will fuck your asses now, your fucking nygga president is fucking crying cuz our drug dealers, come on, you have to meet ours guerrila and ours paramilitar troops, then you will cry, by the way i live in playa del carmen, 1 hour from cancun, and the last sundya we kidnap and rape two fucking drunk blonde stupid bitches, i have the photos and videos, oooo they cry a lot but like justin says “cry me a river” hahahaha if some one want to email me and wish me the worst things here is my email albert0_08_”at”hotmail”dot”com.
RASTAMAN stupid fat ass, i probably know why you are so sad with mexico, hahah bitch you have been raped hahaha do you like taco dick hahaha
Pinches gringos pendejos chinguen a su madre culeros y nada de mexico mexico rara nel putos puro pinche cartel del golfo Z hasta la muerte perros y chinguen a su madre culeros jajajajaj a la verga putos ya saben donde encontrarme
Playa del carmen Quintana Roo, 5. Avenida entre la benito juarez y la dos, ahi andamos violando asaltando y jodiendo gringos
RESPONSE: There were 5 like this in a row. I’m sure this is written by some moron teenager, who is now blocked. I left this one here to illustrate exactly the sort of attitude we’ve been discussing. I’m also sure that his tales of mayhem are imaginary.
The attitude expressed so grossly by this churl is the same one expressed silently in the false smiles of those making a living off tourists in Mexico. Read this and understand what’s going on in the minds of these people. Here’s why:
We were the source of livelihood for much of Mexico until very recently, but two things happened. The global economy has crashed, resulting in far fewer tourists, thereby crashing Mexico’s already poor economy, and secondly, the eruption of their drug wars which have further reduced Mexican tourism, not just from the States but from many countries. The Mexicans hate us for taking away our money and their living, as they see it. They’re extremely jealous of “rich” foreigners and, as you read above, completely unwilling to accept their own responsibility for their problems, let alone do anything about them.
When I was last in Cabo I was shocked at the number of resorts that were closed down, and the greatly decreased staff of the one I stayed at. All the cab drivers had the same story as well, that times had gotten really bad really fast and they were all scared. Equally obvious was the change in attitude of that staff. Indifferent, unhelpful and verging on downright unfriendly. I fully expect Mexico to collapse into another round of revolutions and I don’t think a return to the days of Pancho Villa is far off.
Go to Mexico at your own risk, and after reading all this here, don’t say you weren’t warned.
February 27th, 2009 at 2:04 pm
Wow, Cant help but notice how racist this board is…Are we Americans really that insecure about Mexicans or other foreigners coming to our country??? looks like it…
I say RACIST because I’m a Liberal Left type who uses the R word to try and validate all my specious lies. It’s in my financial interests to promote Mexico.
We live in Detroit and own a second home in Akumal Mexico, In the 7 years we have been going there we have seen small time crime on a few occasions (drug dealers being taken down etc), but I have also seen that here in Detroit and a few other places in the USA.
I’m not an American, actually all the above is Bullshit because my IP address is CALGARY, CANADA and people in Chicago don’t use Canadian ISP’s. I’m Canadian and everything I’m saying in light font is a lie.
As for Jeff Toews from Grande Prarie Alberta Canada, it was found he had Cocaine in his system, upon being flown back to Canada and passing away a Canadian coroner said his injuries were consistant with a fall.Case closed by the Canadian goverment…
Ha ha, just kidding. Actually there’s no such coroner report anywhere to be found on Google, and the cocaine story was made up by the Mexicans. Canada found no cocaine. He was beat to death. THAT part you can find ALL OVER GOOGLE. I’m lying my ass off to you and hoping you go for it.
As with anywhere…Go looking for trouble, you darn right you will find it…
Just as I found it here by trying to pass off my bullshit.
February 27th, 2009 at 4:11 pm
@Pablo
Thank you for furthering the stereotype of all Mexicans being violent savages (sarcasm).
Anyway, i know he probably is just a teenager ranting but still, this kind of comments do not help improve the image of Mexico.
This statistics don’t either, once you consider that even with this numbers the situation is worse:
From 2007-2008 53000 people have been arrested, 28000 weapons and 3 million cartridges seized. (drug trafficking related)
@Lonestranger, just to add to your comment about corruption of cops here.
350 million dollars are the estimate of how much money narcos invest on corrupting law enforcement every year. That doesn’t mean every single cop is corrupt, but as a whole i would consider they are.
@mexican, I don’t agree with you on the point that people here “WILL” be safe as long as they stay away of the drug trade. Haven’t you watched the news? That might have been true some years ago when the cartels sticked to certain rules and the government was doing nothing. But now they are also attacking civilians, remember the attack from the sicarios at Morelia that happened the day most Mexicans were celebrating “La independencia de México” (The equivalent of the 4th of July for Americans). Do you think those people were safe? Or do you think they were involved in drug trade?
I agree on your point that not all of us Mexicans are the same, but I think most people reading this blog are intelligent enough to know that already (although there are indeed some racist messages).
To the rest, well, not all of us are narcos, illegals, USA haters, inherently corrupt or violent people. Sadly, they do exist. I still don’t recommend people coming here considering the current situation, this doesn’t mean that you WILL get robbed, raped or killed, but the risk is higher than in the past.
February 27th, 2009 at 5:06 pm
THANK YOU, EDWARD! For a calm and honest appraisal.
No one who’s commented here so far, including myself, sees “all Mexicans as being violent savages”. I disagree with you about the racist part, I feel the only racist comments so far have been from a few Mexicans about whites and I assume those guys were dark-skinned white haters anyway. Mexican is not a race, it’s a nationality with just as much racial diversity as here.
Anger at illegal immigrants isn’t racism anymore than anger at some slob who lets his/her dog crap on your lawn. Both are violations of personal space. Mexico is personal space to Mexicans and they understandably don’t like outsiders violating it. We wear that same shoe.
The problem is this “one-way-street” attitude of far too many Mexicans toward the United States, the utter lack of any personal safeguards for us by the Mexican government, and the rising crime toward us as a direct consequence of these attitudes, which themselves result from rising poverty as much as the ingrown corruption.
February 28th, 2009 at 3:26 pm
I, myself, do not see all Mexicans as being violent. Yes, some are but not all. What people don’t understand is that just because you have been to Mexico before and were not harmed, does not mean you will be so lucky as to have the same luck as last time. Problems are escalading now. They are not as they were before. Its very dangerous now, and if you’d like to take your chances and go down there, I wish you the best of luck.
@Edward, I agree with what you said to mexican. You dont have to have any relation to the drug trade. My boyfriends grandmother called (she is Mexican and lives in Mexico) she was telling us that things have gotten so bad, that some Mexicans have targeted all Americans in general. They have, literally, set Americans on fire (dead or alive) and let their corpses burn. They have wrapped their bodies and hung Americans all over the cities.
I understand that people say “Yes but, in America theres crime too.” But at least in America, our police step in and arrest those who are doing so.
Many college students are being very ignorant and talking about going to Mexico for Spring Break. And I honestly think people need to step in and stop them from going before they lose loved ones.
But these are all just my opinions.
February 28th, 2009 at 4:18 pm
My wife and I have driven down to Mexico the last two years. We are aware of a military presence. We know there are turf wars but I think the premise that Mexico is unsafe for tourists is nonsense.
When you are in a relatively poor country of course you need to be sensible about what you wear and where you go. My experience is that the Mexicans are a friendly and joyous people. I can think of many places I have been where I have felt more threatened. Top of the list would be parts of South Africa but even Canadian cities have places that I would think twice about entering.
Many tourists who get into trouble in Mexico are doing dumb things. Things which are likely to get you into trouble in many countries. These include
a) doing stupid drug deals
b) messing around with Mexican girls who are with their partners
c) insulting Mexicans
d) being ostentatious with personal possession and cash
There are gang wars and the Mexicans are trying to resolve them. The authorities know that tourism is an important part of the Mexican economy and my experience is that the authorities are eager to see that tourists are not harassed. I believe that the vast majority of violent death in Mexico is related to the drug trade.
That being said, anyone who transgresses is probably in for a tough time. I don’t believe Mexican jails are very nice!
February 28th, 2009 at 5:53 pm
Hi again,
@Rastaman
I realize now after reading my own comment that I misused the word racist, I meant something more along the lines of “Aggressive”, I feel the same way you do about illegal immigration specially the way you put it.
I don’t know if I got your idea of “one-way-street attitude” (are you talking about some Mexicans thinking they can go to the US but Americans can’t go to Mexico?). Could you elaborate?
Now that you mention it “the utter lack of any personal safeguards for us by the Mexican government” I noticed something, usually I hear on the radio some advertisements talking about welcoming back “paisano” or Mexicans (not necessarily illegals) living in other countries and about how there are programs/operatives to help them in their stay, but I haven’t heard anything about helping tourists. I just found that interesting.
@Anonymous: well I haven’t heard of things going as far as Mexicans burning Americans but I’ll look into it
“What people don’t understand is that just because you have been to Mexico before and were not harmed, does not mean you will be so lucky as to have the same luck as last time. Problems are escalading now. They are not as they were before.”
That’s exactly what I would want to get across, things are not the same way they used to be some years ago, and although you might not get hurt the chances you get are higher than before.
“Many college students are being very ignorant and talking about going to Mexico for Spring Break. And I honestly think people need to step in and stop them from going before they lose loved ones.”
Well, you have reminded me of something we have been hearing lately. Usually there are blockades or “retenes” as we call them, which basically consist of law enforcement blocking a certain highway or street. This I think mainly serves as a way to dissuade drunk people from driving and locating suspects. The problem is that it also facilitates abuse from the authorities (I have some stories of friends and my own relating to these). Anyway the thing I wanted to mention is the appearance of what has been called “narco-retenes” which basically consist of sicarios dressed up as law enforcement or military enforce their own blockades for their own purposes (people have been killed, or kidnapped at these). People who still decide they want to go should know about this and be advised on how to act since fatalities and abuse (from part of the authorities) has been reported.
I can’t seem to find a reliable source in English to back this up but if I do ill post it later. So far this is the only I could find. http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showthread.php?t=113556
Although it has a lot of inconsistencies in the translation (Mainly the drunken soldiers and finding drug/weapons part).
February 28th, 2009 at 9:27 pm
I just cancelled our trip to Cancun next month with my wife and two small children. We have been there a few times in the last 3 years and I noticed an increase in military presence. On the surface, it could make you feel safer. But the reality dictates that if they (the soldiers) are that visible, things you don’t know (being a tourist) must be much worse. What bothered me more was the obvious resentment on the faces of the grunts. To be sweating and miserable in full armor protecting our white asses for God knows what pay, was obvious. My five year old was trying to get their attention and waving at them, and they just looked away with zero expression. I guess my point is, if that is Cancun at 1 in the afternoon outside the McDonald’s across from the JW Marriott, it a whole lot of shit waiting to hit the fan, and I don’t want to get caught up when they plug in the fan. It is, I believe a powder keg, and to be avoided until they get a handle on things. Jamaica had similar government and social unrest about 15 years ago and everyone stayed away. Cooler heads prevailed and it is sweet once again. I guess we’re off to Disney again, ho hum, but Mickey isn’t trying to kidnap me, just rape my wallet for bad food and the same ole same ole!
February 28th, 2009 at 11:13 pm
bzzd ” transgresses” Honestly do you speak to Mexicans that highbrow ??not bloody likely because you are a freakin worker in the vacation industry in Mexico. So sod off Wanker! *I believe this attention the cartels are getting by the mexican media is a plan hatched to make us forget and come back after the fake drug war is over. A human life is worthless to the government of Mexico they don’t give a shit who dies there and why as long as the cash flows up to the big guys. All I have to say to people who feel they must go there is honestly quit being so cheap and boring! Spend your money where you will be served with graciousness and pride, You’ll sleep well knowing that your safe in a lawful land(for the most part)Get out of your box or should I say your all-inclusive condo whatever. America and Canada have some beautiful and interesting places to go.The Carolina’s, Key Largo, Yukon Territories,Queen Charlotte Islands, Places that will give you a break on any budget and perhaps enlighten you on the people and the culture who live there ,and we help our countries fiscally at the same time win-win.
March 1st, 2009 at 1:16 pm
Just for the record Ashleigh, I stay in a Mexican posada in a Mexican part of the city. It is not neccessary for you to be abusive.
IN terms of feeling intimidated by the authorities - entering the US is an intimidating experience- cameras everywhere and a profound sense of big brother everywhere. Homeland Security is an Orwellian concept. My wife and I were stopped and and searched, albeit politely, and at the end of it all my dog’s food was confiscated - definitely a threat, wouldn’t you say?
I see from your previous contribution that you had a truly awful experience in Mexico and I am very sorry for that.
We have not had any bad experiences in Mexico. I hear people talk of terrible experiences in the US - it does not stop me visiting the US.
Take things as they come and be aware of where you are.
March 1st, 2009 at 4:24 pm
Hard to blame her for being a bit abusive, especially with your latest comments. First you gripe about our border security as being Orwellian, dictatorial, which is not true at all, but don’t mention at all the utter lack of Mexican border security. “my dog’s food was confiscated - definitely a threat, wouldn’t you say?” Maybe. Coming in from Mexico, who knows what was in it? You bitch about that?
Then you say, take things as they come. You mean like rape and murder? How about your dog food? Omigod they took your dog food! Hey, that’s different!
Finally, “be aware of where you are”. Does that mean that when your lovely Mexican vacation turns out to be Freddy’s Halloween Nightmare III, well gee, that’s too bad, you should have been aware of where you were?
I agree with Ashleigh. You do come off as a Mexican travel agent. You’re whitewashing over a lot of really ugly stuff and if you’ll pardon the pun, it doesn’t wash.
Let me tell you and anyone else inclined to leave a comment here. If the US ever reaches the same level of crime and corruption as Mexico, then we’ll talk about US crime. Right now this is about Mexico. Stop trying to compare the two, you just make yourself sound like an idiot when you try.
March 1st, 2009 at 8:24 pm
We just got back from Cancun January 12, 2009. We had a nightmare from hell trip and it cost us about $6,000 when it was all said and done.
First off, we got robbed at the airport in Cancun by a couple of “airport security” wearing fake airport uniforms. Our CONQUEST van that was supposed to take us to our hotel (Gran Melia) threw our bags out of the trunk and took off on us!! So we were then approached by these airport people who said they would get us another van… but when we got to the hotel DEMANDED $60USD for the trip!!! Luckily I had that amount on me.
Next, my hubby got drugged at the Gran Melia pool bar by one of the servers! And NO I am not joking! I went up to the room and he showed up about 10 minutes later accompanied by 2 men.. They saw me and then left right away. If I was not there I think they would have robbed him. He fell asleep and didn’t remember a damn thing!! He had only 2 drinks that day!! We made a complaint straight away to the hotel, they did absolutely NOTHING about it. They had 2 security guards come take a statement, they didn’t even speak english. They had a notepad to take their “notes” but didn’t write more than 2 words the entire time. They treated us as if we were lying! We were staying in a 5 star hotel and we got treated like dogs!
AS A CANADIAN, I HATE MEXICO.. I will NEVER go back. I will NEVER give them my money again.
It was our first trip to Mexico, and we will never EVER go back.
March 2nd, 2009 at 1:19 am
My wife recently booked us a trip to Cabo San Lucas for a week at the cost of $4700.00 US. Looking at the news, hearing the reports of drug cartel violence, and reading this forum has made me very leary of travelling to Mexico. Sadly, I’m trying to cancel or book a different destination with the travel company she used, and we aren’t having any luck whatsoever. They simply will not refund our money or direct us to a different destination. How bad is Cabo San Lucas right now, in terms of drugs and violence? Does anybody have any suggestions as to how I can get my money back from this booked vacation? I even bought the travel insurance and they won’t refund me……
March 2nd, 2009 at 8:58 am
You’ll be flying directly in and out of Cabo and normally there’s no problem with the van showing up to take you back and forth to the resort. The rest depends on what your itinerary is.
If you have fishing planned, the boat skippers expect massive tips up to $100 per crew and there may be trouble if you don’t tip well. Getting a cab back to your resort can also be a problem, if they’re not happy with you. If you look well to do, … well, just don’t.
If you stay at your resort during your week you should be fine. If you go into town, it would be wise to go as a small group, and stay out of the bars.
As for drug violence, Cabo isn’t a drug center and you shouldn’t have anything like that to worry about. You’ll find that many of the resorts are closed down and services in the one you’re in will probably be reduced considerably, such as air conditioning kept off, refrigeration lacking and so forth. Anything to save on overhead.
The thing is, the money is GONE. These people are BROKE and they never liked us much anyway, they resent us more now, and they don’t have all our societal inhibitions against robbery. That’s what you’re walking into. So stay together at all times, stay at the resort and enjoy the scenery.
You mentioned travel insurance. If that’s for the airplane, you should certainly be able to get that and a large part of your air fare refunded. If it’s for a car rental, count it as a loss. If you booked your flights thru a travel agency, and you at least want that part refunded, you have to contact the airline directly to get it back. The agency won’t give it back.
March 2nd, 2009 at 10:58 am
Hello everyone.
I live in Playa del Carmen since the last two year.
Sometimes i have to drive to the ugly dangerous area of town too look for car repair mechanics.
Usually i see foreigners in those areas walking, and when im not in the rush i quickly stop and advise to the tha they must go back to the touristic zone.
For example if you walk into the COLOSIO neighborhood in Playa and you dont belog there , you will be assaulted. Mexicans americans canadians nobody is safe in that area ( EVEN WE MEXICANS ARE AFRAID TO GO THERE ) we never go in the night , dfeinitively never alone or by foot.
Again i see beautifull young Peaople from other countris love to go there there is nothing there but drug trade.
I seen incredible beautifull youg girls walk into the jungle whit mayan indians or indians from other parts of mexico.
In Oaxaca and Chiapas , Indian woman are treated like in the Raghead countries. The no have ritgh even to speak to the men unless spoken to under penalty of death , no righ to vote , indian men routinely kill people in the comunities , they are like your indian nations , no spanish spoken. No law no order, no phone taxi, bus. very isolated, you can do as you please, nothing will happen to you.
Actually the best way to get away with murder is , bring the one you want to kill to mexico, Kill the person here, return to US. I promiese you will never get caugth, even if you are sloppy .
Mexican law is so out dated and deeply corrupted that 99 % of all crimes are never solved.
from the 1% solved only 1% is actually caught.
from the 1% that is actually bcaught only 1% gets sentence.
So the mind state in mexico is that you can do ANY crime and the probability to get caught is almos zero, even if you are sloppy.
Do not leave the turistic areas .
Do not walk drunk in the streets at night.
Do not carry expensive watches jewelry.
Always carry a digital camera, all Mexican polices will run if you take their pictures.
Always carry a celluler phone, if you attempt a call securities and guards will run or stop.
remeber all security guard make 5 dolar per day.
Take care .use common sense.
max
March 2nd, 2009 at 9:41 pm
Okay you all have me freaked the hell out. I am 27 year old female. My girlfriend and I have recently bought a trip to Playa del Carmen. We are flying from LA with a stop in Mexico City and then from there we fly to Cancun. I can not get my money back. Should I be worried about the stop in Mexico City and if we go straight to our resort which is REEF PLAYACAR and dont leave will we be okay. I dont really care about all of you who take chances, I have a two year old daughter whom I love and dont want to get raped and killed. One more question, all of this crime that is going on, has it been going on for a long time and we are just starting to hear about it or is this a new thing. Now surely I know that there is crime everywhere so slow down triggers I am no dumbass. It just seems like this is recent big news.
March 2nd, 2009 at 11:31 pm
This isn’t recent, it was posted just over a year ago and the violence was bad then. It’s gotten a lot worse and our government has gone to the point of telling the college kids to NOT GO to Mexico on Spring Break because it’s TOO DANGEROUS.
Max, the Mexican who commented just before you did, says STAY OUT!. Last time I went, you could get your money back minus commissions. I guess they’re having so many cancellations that now they’re refusing refunds as you aren’t the first to say you can’t get one.
You can get a refund on your airfare. I strongly suggest you do that and eat the loss on the resort. Playa and Cancun are two of the worst rated tourist destinations in Mexico now for danger.
The money is spent. Let it go, get your airfare back if you can, from the airline, not the travel agency, and use it to book a motel at some nice place near home and thank your lucky stars you didn’t go to Mexico. Losing out on one vacation is a disappointment but not one that ends in tragedy. Life will go on.
Hawaii is pretty nice this time of year.
March 3rd, 2009 at 12:48 am
Hey MIzzoura
I too have tried everything in my power today to get a refund from my travel company, or just switch to a different destination, and was flatly refused. I bought the travel insurance and was advised to go see a doctor to get a medical waver to claim that I am unable to travel, as an only resort to get my money back. Looks like that is the only option you may want to try, if you bought the insurance.
Rasta, thanks for the imput and the advisory. My biggest thrill of going to Cabo was to visit Cabo Wabo Cantina, Lover’s Beach, and take my wife on a whale watching excursion. Sounds like I’m skipping this trip until the country gets back on track again.
March 3rd, 2009 at 4:00 pm
I’ve read through this whole thread and it is quite interesting.
In February 2006(?), we were in Puerto Vallarta and had a very nice time. The people we met were good and decent. This was just after the couple from Woodbridge were brutally murdered in their hotel room(I read the story when we were flying out). As this story progressed, what was most troubling is that, while it was clear the crime was commited by an off-duty security guard, Mexican authorities chose to persue charges against other tourists. From this and other events, it seems that while Mexico has it’s share of crime, as do many other countries, it is Mexico’s tacit policy to do nothing. And yes, you can be victimized by crime anywhere, but for that crime to be sanctioned or commited by the very people entrusted with keeping the peace?
And to say that people bring it on themselves is like saying a woman who dresses provocatively at a night club deserves to be raped. If I’m all boozed-up and having a good time, that shouldn’t be an invitation to be robbed, and or beaten and murdered!
It’s a shame. I was thinking of going to the Mayan Riviera. I hear it’s beautiful. I think I will go somewhere else. When I am on vacation, I want to be at ease, not on guard!
March 3rd, 2009 at 5:58 pm
Does anyone know if it is safe to travel on cruise ships to Mexico? My mother is taking my 18 year old daughter and 21 year old nephew on a cruise to Cozumel and Progresso in June. They are planning on diving in Cozumel and going to a group beach party in Progresso. Can anyone tell me if those places are safe? I have not seen any reports of violence in those areas, but maybe I’m not looking in the right places. Help!
March 3rd, 2009 at 6:24 pm
So this is a very interesting thread. Mexico is clearly having tough times — but it is also a beautiful country. I am considering traveling to Chacala, just north of Puerta Vallarta, with another family. We each have a son, age 2 and age 4. We will not be going out at night, or staying up late, or going to clubs or scary places. We plan to play on the beach and stay in town.
Does anyone have any CURRENT updates on Chacala, or on Puerta Vallarta, or on getting from PV to Chacala and how safe it is between the two? thanks.
March 3rd, 2009 at 6:31 pm
Patricia: I know a bit about this… First, it depends on the company that owns your ship. Cruise ship operators normally avoid unsafe ports, or if they do enter them, put restrictions on their travelers activities and issue warnings. I would advise you to check the companies reputation, do a Google for “company x” reputation or “company x” violations, accident record, passenger safety.
Also, a lot can and very likely will happen for the worse between now and June in Mexico. Isla Cozumel has some pretty rough areas.
Mexico has always been more dangerous than we’ve realized here, and it took the drug wars and huge murder rate to wake us up. Whoever goes there does so at their own risk, with no safety lines and no recourse regardless of what happens.
Personally, I don’t see what’s so hard to figure out about this. Gee what should I do? Should I go stick my fingers in the flame, or keep them out? This is not a tough decision. Oh, look at the pretty lion. Let’s go pet it.
March 4th, 2009 at 11:56 am
We are supposed to go to Playa later this month staying at the Riu Yucatan. Should we cancel? Is it safe to go? Please let me know….
March 4th, 2009 at 12:33 pm
After all that, you have to ask?
Lots of people vacation in Mexico and don’t have any major problems. Lots of people bungee-jump and don’t die.
Lots of people ride bulls and escape with only minor fractures.
Lots of people walk tightropes without ever falling to their deaths.
How lucky do you feel? That’s what you should be asking.
March 4th, 2009 at 7:35 pm
I remembered a few more things about my stay in Playa Del Carmen. My first night I was trying to call using our calling card I kept being intercepted by a spanish operator she would always say Credit Card number please I hung up 3 times thinking wtf how can this be after thinking about technology and hotels I started my call again she asked again I said look im NOT giving you a credit card number because I no have one! I know your in an office somewhere in this hotel and so help you god if my husband doesn’t get a call from me he’ll think I got killed she let me make that call warning me my next call would require a card number. I made a hobby out of finding her place I’d watch all the doors I kept seeing nicely dressed ladies leaving from this office I went into the hall bam a whole room of women on phones speaking english trying like hell to milk every penny they could in they worked mad shifts too like 12 14 hours.
March 4th, 2009 at 7:36 pm
So we should go only if we feel lucky?? We’ve rented a house in Playa del Carmen later this month, there are ten of us, 4 adults, two teens and four kids 2, 4, 7, and 9. Reading this makes me think we have to cancel for the safety of our family.
March 4th, 2009 at 7:53 pm
MaxChamp Thanks for all your info. Do you ever see a day where you will live in a lawful country? What does it feel like knowing you live in oppression? Is it hard to be a citizen and not be sinful? Max,I can’t wrap my head around existing there and not being a gangster I hate like hell being poor. Your government lies and says these things take time I can’t imagine it unless the U.N. comes in and helps the politics and its departments do a massive house cleaning. There are so many people in Mexico who are professionals who must take an oath to be who they are and yet they never get together to form a group to propose to the U.N that they live in a hell ? I know it’s not simple it just is so damn frustrating that Mexico is so rich so close to the U.S and they’ve never embraced a democracy
March 5th, 2009 at 11:35 am
Mexico is safe is you Gringo are smart!
Content Deleted for being another tiresome rant about how there’s crime in the USA too. Thank you, yes, we all know that there’s crime in the USA too.
As I previously stated, let me tell you and anyone else who leaves a comment here that if the US ever reaches the same level of crime and corruption as Mexico, then we’ll talk about US crime. Right now this is about the great and increasing crime toward foreign tourists in Mexico.
We cannot be expected to instantly become Mexico-style streetwise to avoid getting raped, robbed and murdered when we visit your country. We should not have to be smart to be safe. We should simply be safe. Why is that so hard to understand?
Rasta.
March 6th, 2009 at 9:14 am
Money!!! Rockermama or I should say : Every person who has enough of it right now to put towards a nice break in winter…..When you open your wallet and put out your hard earned CASH. THINK am I putting this money to an entity that promotes PEACE and democracy ? What is the structure of this places Government do they believe things WE believe? We are very powerful when we have the wallets ,that have this free money in it. We have a responsibility to the Peace of our planet to not spend it where there’s EVIL .Thousands of people are waking up to this power and are using it and Countries that do not provide protection for us (people with the wallets ) are pissed. When you give birth to a child and have more than a handful of brain cells clinging round your head, you promise to protect that child with your life. I must say that I felt so much relief when I was there that I hadn’t brought my kids. My sun is very well traveled and knew when I told him my experience in Playa. He talked very deeply about the things he’s seen when he’d toured all of Asia and how the conditions citizens there live under, will haunt him till he dies. We agreed that we can help by traveling to countries where the citizens are safe which means …… We are safe. You are not safe in Mexico and that’s a fact . I repeat the U. S ,Canada and Europe etc have safety The best service i’ve ever had is in America . Many American’s haven’t traveled their own country, it’s Awesome!! ,I want to drive the whole south. To me it’s like a totally different planet, relaxing on any of your warm coasts rocks too. If you do the math at the end of the day you spend less and learn why your so great. What I really think is interesting about America is when you go to a different state it’s a new culture ,Learn why your great then go where it sucks you’ll see what were going on about on here. Just because a place is beautiful doesn’t mean it’s safe Germany was beautiful in 1938.
March 6th, 2009 at 10:02 pm
Economy is down, violence up.
March 8th, 2009 at 8:23 pm
I’m surposed to be going to Rocky Point for spring break crossing the border at Sonoita. Has anyone heard anything bad about Rocky Point?
March 9th, 2009 at 3:25 pm
Dont GO…I have been there……DONT GO you will NOT be safe there. DONT GO…just trust me. Its too close to border too. BE SAFE
March 9th, 2009 at 7:10 pm
People, you are totally over-reacting!!!!! Mexico is HUGE, so whatever happens in the border, does not even come close to affecting areas like Playa del Carmen or Cancun.
I have been living in between Playa and Cancun for over 12 years, I have gone out numerous times and have NEVER EVER been robbed or have been close to voilent acts or shootings or any of the things mentioned above.
It all depends on how careful you are, where you go and at what time. Hang around downtown or near your hotels and you shall be fine!! Obviously if you get super drunk and crazy, unfortunate things may happen it. Same as everywhere else….
March 9th, 2009 at 9:53 pm
HOW CAREFUL YOU ARE.
Just be CAREFUL.
Don’t take CHANCES.
STAY NEAR YOUR HOTEL.
Unfortunate things MAY HAPPEN.
And so on, and so on. In other words, all of “HUGE” Mexico is like one big gang neighborhood.
Let me say it again. We shouldn’t have to “be smart” to be safe in Mexico, we should just simply be safe. Why is that so goddam hard to understand?
March 10th, 2009 at 5:58 pm
MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - A dozen Mexican soldiers were arrested on suspicion of working with the violent Gulf Cartel, the Mexican army said on Thursday, a blow to President Felipe Calderon’s military-backed campaign against drug gangs.
The troops are accused of collaborating with four municipal policemen in the central state of Aguascalientes who provided protection for Gulf cartel capos, the army said in a statement.
The arrests come as Calderon sent thousands more troops to the violent border city of Ciudad Juarez in an attempt to curb spiraling drug violence that killed more than 6,000 people last year.
Calderon deployed the army to fight organized crime since taking office in 2006 partly because soldiers have traditionally been seen as less corrupt than police.
But several recent high-profile arrests — including a presidential guardsmen who allegedly received $100,000 a month to track Calderon for drug traffickers — reveal infiltration in the highest levels of Mexico’s security forces.
The Gulf cartel is fighting a turf war for control of smuggling routes with its main rival the Sinaloa federation, led by Mexico’s most wanted man Joaquin “Shorty” Guzman.
The Gulf cartel’s feared hitmen known as the Zetas, infamous for torturing and beheading their enemies, were founded by a group of military deserters.
March 10th, 2009 at 6:15 pm
Note* When was the last time a news story like this came out of a DEMOCRATIC country ? Why because we have a code that our Law enforcement workers have to follow. If they don’t follow the code go see the punishments put to them. All you nay sayers your of the assumption that the Police and Army in Mexico are actually there to serve the peoples of that country. I can’t believe you sit in front of a huge database and don’t check the facts like … Mexico:how did it come to be ? What is a cartel? What is the history politically in regards to their peoples?What are the instances of Murder and corruption within and without of that countries government. Why are they so rich in resources and most of the people so poor? Why are you protected by soldiers when you vaca ? Why do criminals from the U.S and Canada hide out there.? Why do witnesses to crime get arrested in Mexico ? Ask why!! pull it out and get researching.Knowledge is a beautiful thing , your hard drive is supposed to make your lives easier. Going to Mexico after you have had access to the worlds biggest Fact machine is irresponsible if you leave behind anyone who loves you in America if you get murdered there.
March 11th, 2009 at 8:59 pm
My family and I are going to Puerto Vallarta in a couple of weeks for Spring break. Does anyone know the “danger” status there? We will be staying in a all -inclusive resort. PLEASE RESPOND IF YO KNOW!! THANKS!!!
March 12th, 2009 at 9:39 am
Angie Look at the comment above yours thanks
March 13th, 2009 at 12:55 am
My husband and I have been going to Puerto Vallarta every year since 03′ and love it. We have always stayed at Paradise Village Beach Resort and Spa which is actually in Nuevo Vallarta. It is a beautiful gated resort and we’ve had nothing but a very pleasant experience every year. The staff is awesome and the resort has everything we look for in a vacation so we don’t venture to downtown or do any excursions. We decided to make a change this year and booked our next vacation to Cancun at The Royal Sands Resort in October. Now I’m all freaked out! I’ve been to Cancun before but my husband hasn’t and we were both looking so forward to a change. We wanted to go downdown to Senor’ Frogs and different bars we’ve seen recommended from the resort reviews. Our travel partners aren’t concerned about the hype of violence but I am. I watch Headline News every day but somehow missed the travel advisory. My friends all told me that I was crazy to go! I’m so disappointed, but going on vacation and not being able to trust my surroundings doesn’t sound too relaxing to me.
March 13th, 2009 at 7:52 am
touche’ to all that ashleigh said,and i would like to add that getting the attention of the mexican goverment and the mexican people is to hit them right square in the pocket book. no go mexico!!! no go mexico!!!! be belligerent and remember,if you want a nice beach front vacation, there are plenty of islands in the caribbean.
March 14th, 2009 at 12:45 am
Rastaman, I’m pretty sure you are going to delete this but what the hell. It is obvious the only reason you started this tread is to install fear. Any time anyone offers another point of view you delete their message or you insist they hate America and should move to Mexico since we love it so much. Brilliant maybe we should just go back into our houses shut the door and never come out again. It would be one thing if your mission was to educate people but hell you are scaring the shit out of people with this hate propoganda. It would be nice if you would allow more than one point of view to be voiced. Rastam you are a (personal insult deleted. ED.)!
March 14th, 2009 at 8:32 am
“Rev” Brown, the reason I deleted your previous diatribes is because of your personal attacks on me, in my own house. I don’t trash other people on their own blogs. I speak on the subject. I may well go after some other commenter but I NEVER attack the host because to do so is crass, rude, stupid and cowardly.
Yet this is typical of those with a financial interest in continued Mexico tourism. Rather than get rid of all the rats in their cellar they attack those who complain about all the rats.
If you had bothered to read all the many comments, you would have seen many different points of view, for and against this thread. But you didn’t, you just wanted to take another personal swipe at me.
Now you’ve had your say. Don’t expect to have another one unless you have something positive to contribute. Such as how Mexico might become a better nation.
The word is “instill”, not “install”.
March 15th, 2009 at 7:02 pm
In regards to The Rev it just goes to show how it’s getting their ires up .Those creepy mexican tour people can’t control Rasta and it drives them crazy. when you go to any Mexi hotel comments, you can see that they like to control who says what over- riding comments customers make about resorts etc . Writing their own hotel comments in broken english
March 15th, 2009 at 10:35 pm
you folks are nuts…
fear mongers…!!!
I go to playa,isla mujeres and tulum every single year,it is perfectly safe and most of the people are extremely friendly…
so stop trying to scare people…
no one is forcing you to go to mexico yourselves.
if you’re really so afraid of it,just don’t go.
that’s fine with me,more beautiful,unspoiled,empty beach for us.
March 16th, 2009 at 7:47 am
Pedro Learn how to digest what you read
March 20th, 2009 at 2:06 pm
That’s right Gringos, don’t come, we don’t want you here. If you were too drunk or too stupid to come here and didn’t foresee what could happen to you, it’s your fault. It’s not the Mexican government’s fault; it’s not the corrupt Mexican police. As Mexicans, we have (sadly) learned to live with this problem; so we don’t blame it; it we get robbed or beaten, or raped, we blame ourselves, cuz we weren’t cautious enough. If you are in a foreign country, get super drunk, don’t know the area, and for Christ’s sake, don’t speak the language…. don’t get drunk and wander around in dark areas at night. But I am glad to see your stupid government is warning you about not coming, cuz we don’t want you here. Same thing you don’t want Mexicans in your country, we don’t want you here!!!! I am happy to read one bitch got raped and beaten, that’s what American bitches deserve, for being so materialistic.
March 20th, 2009 at 5:20 pm
Any questions?
March 21st, 2009 at 7:45 am
Wow pretty intense message from Alejandro. I thank him he wants us to know what’s going on. If you study the culture this hombre is being “real” If you find his last sentence offensive you need to educate yourself on Mexico to understand that it is a “third world country” Where the women better know their place or they get shown it. For the males it’s all about being a “MUCHO GRANDE HOMBRE”in a spanish “Macho Culture” . When they see the sexy hot girls from other countries parading around them and they know that not in a million years would they ever “get with him” equivalent to cuttin’ off their balls. Gracias Alajandro.
March 22nd, 2009 at 1:07 pm
Recent Survey Results Support that Mexico is an Unsafe Tourist Destination
Results are in agreement with media and consumers’ concerns.
MILWAUKEE, March 18 /PRNewswire/ — The recently updated Mexico Travel Alert correctly discourages U.S. citizens from traveling to Mexico, and encourages travelers to take common sense precautions that they would not expect to need in many other countries. To get a pulse on how vacationers who recently returned from Mexico felt about their safety and experience, The Mark Travel Corporation (parent company to Funjet Vacations) initiated and aggregated a consumer survey.
Fully 10% of those surveyed said they did NOT feel “safe and secure”. Considering that all of these people stayed at supposed “safe and secure resorts”, this is a very poor showing, since the resorts are supposed to be vastly safer than the towns.
The majority of respondents vacationed in Cancun/Riviera Maya, the most popular leisure destination in Mexico, which is more than 1,300 miles from the nearest U.S./Mexico border town referred to in the updated Mexico Travel Alert. Other respondents also vacationed in major tourist destinations including Puerto Vallarta, Cozumel, Los Cabos, Ixtapa, Acapulco and Mazatlan. These destinations are a minimum of 375 miles (the distance from Mazatlan to Chihuahua) from any U.S./Mexico border town. To view a map of Mexico that includes tourist destinations, border towns and mileage, visit Mexico-Update.com, a Web site recently launched by the Mexico Tourism Board to address travelers’ questions about travel and safety in Mexico.
The survey refutes Funjet’s position that Mexico is a safe vacation destination. The results should give other travelers concern about planning a Mexico vacation. The drug cartel violence is just part of the reason the U.S. Department of State updated the alert. The increasing levels of crime against tourists actually inside the resorts at Cancun, Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta and other main tourist areas has become extremely alarming, as Mexico’s economy slides deeper into a hole and tourists are seen as easy prey for an increasingly criminal population.
Vacationers are advised to find other places to go besides Mexico for the long term. People should remember that Mexico has always been corrupt and has never been more than moderately safe. Mexico is still a third-world country with all that implies.
March 23rd, 2009 at 5:10 pm
My pleasure Ashleigh; personally, I don’t think you can fully understand one’s culture unless you live in that country you are trying to describe. For my part, I lived in the US for 6 years, got my BS from an American University and came back to my country. So, I guess I am in a better position for analyzing your culture than you are in analyzing mine. Plus, I know this is not a Spanish-learning blog, but the little spanish you wrote makes no sense. Plus, your last sentence on which “we never get with them”, you would be surprised of the effects of alcohol on young, stupid, immature American girls. But please, this is not offensive, it’s an educating comment. Avoid problems, avoid having an awful vacation experience, go somewhere else. I heard the beaches in Thailand are great, the only expensive thing is the ticket but other than that, cheaper than Mexico!!!!
March 23rd, 2009 at 9:13 pm
Fully 95% of the Mexican males who’ve left comments here have really got crappy personalities. I understood her “mucho grande hombre” just fine, it means arrogant, macho morons like you, Al.
But please, this IS offensive, and very educational. Stay in Mexico. You’re probably safer there than in Thailand where they’re cracking down on pedophiles now.
March 24th, 2009 at 8:04 pm
I get the impression Alyahandjob has a big Mexican chip on his shoulder with his BS from an American University woop ti doo ,like that really matters to me or any person on this page . I could be a third generation Australian Spanish person for all any person on here knows fktard it would be like assuming Rasta is black. He’s yanking our chains so we forget the real issue on this page and yet shows in a very sad way his sadness at not getting those young white American females to be with him forever.He live’s a metaphor he waits till she’s Drunk ,and he Rapes her and leaves her in a Beach chair, Sneaking back to his sleezy night audit job at some under rated resort taking visa numbers to reserve rooms and then mysteriously wracking up those visa numbers buying crap on the net !! Wow it’s like I’m right in the room with you eh!! 168 is me. Mr Smarty Pants you have to wake up before there was a Mexico for me to not see your pain. At the end of the day you aren’t screwing America your screwing yourself. Viva Mexico Alejandro is making it a better country
March 25th, 2009 at 9:17 am
LOL. What a lashing.
Ashleigh, I hope you never get mad at me. Hahaha. Poor Al.
March 25th, 2009 at 8:00 pm
Ya I thought you may delete it. Me get pissed at you never! You know who I am you run this page and this is good for all of the world to see ; >
March 28th, 2009 at 5:39 pm
Ok,
I have to chime in here.
Ive heard all of the stories about Mexico. About 2.5 years ago, I was introduced to a charity that takes college kids to mexico (Baja, Tijuana) to help in building projects. I took my family one christmas, and had the time of my life. I made some contacts with our LDS Church in baja, and have made life long friends. I went to Baja 5-6 times in 2006 alone. Nothing has made me happier than to help the less advantaged..
Now the story..
In about oct of 2008, I drove with 3 friends to TJ. We flew my 20 year old son in to Sandiego and picked him up. It was one of those trips where nothing went right, the family we were supposed to help was late getting home on the day we were supposed to do work.. We were bored, we decided to go to the revolution Street (Something told me not to)..
We looked at parking at a lot, but at 3pm on a saturday, we parked a couple blocks away on the street, thinking that would be safe. People everywhere..
Walked around, bought a few things..
Gone maybe one hour..
Came back, Van was gone.. My friend that spoke strong spanish, found out with some calls, that someone had supposedly broken into the van, and the cops arrived and had the van towed..They took everything that wasnt bolted down. It was like a scene from “The Grinch that stole christmas”
To this day, I dont know which part the smash and grab guy got, and which part the cops got..
Anyway…
This was a friday, and to make a long long story short, it took the entire weekend and monday to prove the government that the van was mine.
(The papers for the van were taken too.)
Bottom Line…
Its one thing to know that the chance of a smash and grab is real..
Its totally another thing to see how officials didnt care 1% about our situation. We had a Mexican friend in Baja that was an attorney, still got no attention from the government. It was amazing how little care we got from officials.
I like to to think that if a tourist came walking into my local police station, (in the USA) destitute, that even the jerkiest American cop would try to help some how, some way. Im no cop lover, in fact our small town cops are absolute jerks.. However , you will NEVER see one of them trying to extort money from someone they pull over.
I haven’t been back. I’m torn , I love those people.. but everything that has been said here is true..
1. Totally corrupt system.
2. High level of desperation, means stealing is a way of life.
3. No standards in almost anything.
Anyway, I had hopes of actually buying a home on the beach in Playas TJ or Rosario etc..
Dont think that will ever happen.
March 28th, 2009 at 9:43 pm
Well i have read through this entire post it is very interesting and entertaining. Rastaman runs it like a cold war russian propaganda thread only posting what he wants to glorify his own views. And then you have a canook who had a bad experience and on the war path against mexicans. Well let me tell you my 2 cents I have huge back yard parties every year for years at my home and other friends places. I envite my big ole redneck buddies,my sheriff dept buddies,my friends in the corrections dept and allot of hispanics that I have befriended over the years and there familys most here legaly and prob some illegal. But bottom line is i have met the best and worst of our society and have come to realize there are good and bad in all people US ,hispanic, cops and even milkmen. I go to cozumel every year and take my old friend louise aka (okiedokie) a gift at the park royal. I ve never had anybad luck as of yet and I know that its only a matter of time before something happens. weather a bump in the road or a life changing event. But i refuse to be scared or in fear to go somewhere you have one chance in life you can use it being a wus or live it being free and see a little bit of our world but in the end where all going to the ground. But people there are dangerous situations everytime you leave your home or go to walmart so dont be intimidated or scared by this thread or a few who had a bad experience,go see it for yourself use good judgement dont stand out,act like and idiot or try to be the center of attention and youll be just fine but always be aware cause no matter how carefull you are trouble can always happen. okay with that being said Rastaman and Ashleigh yall feel free to retort and and exploit your views.
March 29th, 2009 at 7:49 am
Thanks for the history of your socializing and your list of friends. Nobody gives a crap who you party with or who you know, this is about the unrest in Mexico, not your drunken social life. You don’t live in fear. That’s why you surround yourself with law enforcement types. Right.
I would delete the above diatribe except that it continues to illustrate the point made by some others here, that they see this as being all about them. Therefor only their point of view is valid, only their opinion matters.
The bold type above is my only editing, as it’s this yokels only concession to the horrible experiences, including RAPE, suffered by Ashleigh and others. What a maroon.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:39 am
I am law enforcment you tard ,i guess thats why i hang out with them,ever thik about that.
The rest of this dirtbags string of insults has been deleted. I’ve posted repeatedly that comments about the subject are welcome, personal attacks on the messenger, me, are not. This person, and I use that word with uncertainty, in his first comment launched an attack on me and a commenter, Ashleigh, which is why I responded in kind. If you don’t want me to rip you to shreds, and I’m good at it, then stay on the subject and stay off me.
You don’t have to agree with what I write. You do have to be civil. This is my house, not yours.
March 29th, 2009 at 5:02 pm
jadrianc is now blocked after reading the above and then sending another string of belligerent, raving and raging insults in response. I have difficulty believing he’s actually on a police force somewhere as they make you pass intelligence and psyche tests, and this guy is both stupid and nuts.
You note that he says “feel free to retort”. He came here trying to start a fight. I can see him, almost, brown sheriffs shirt tails dangling off his huge gut. This bloat probably hasn’t seen his pecker in 30 years and calls everyone “Bubba”. His ass is gone from a life of sitting down and he wears a false butt to keep his hip bones off the wood seat. “I’m law enforcement”. Right, that’s why you made an ass of yourself by insulting your host (me) even before running your mouth about your party pals. You may be used to walking in anywhere and doing anything you want, but not here. Here you talk nice or get the fuck out. I run this blog.
I’ve known a lot of cops and deputies over the years and the last time any of them acted like you was back in the 1960’s. After that, the jerks started getting weeded out to stop all the lawsuits, and todays officers are mostly pretty good people.
Look out you never shoot your leg off with that .44 Magnum revolver, Clint. When was the last time you checked that it was still loaded?
March 29th, 2009 at 10:00 pm
It’s scarey to think people just sit at their keyboards randomly planting bombs that are silly and twisted OKIE DOKIE ?? PARK ROYAL?? WTF are you on mate?He was smart enough to pick up on a slang term for my people Canuck : ) .The heat from the Texas Coast was getting to him that’s why he misspelled it.He’s not in Law enforcement the times he wrote his notes he was at home or at work and a cop would absolutely NOT put the words he did on his computer or the one at work Our (Democracies) law enforcement people are convicted for bizarre ramblings like that Mr Jad Potty Mouth. When you began your rambling with (WELL) it gave you away. When was the last time you left your house really? Get up walk out the door and get a proper job instead of living off your mum. or Organize your friends to help all their poor relatives in Mexico!!! Go there make yourself useful maybe you’ll find the fame that eludes you on the net.
March 31st, 2009 at 11:08 pm
I’m actually amazed at the amount of trash comments that have been left for this particular post. Most of them have been deleted, only a few have been left to illustrate the problem. Every one of those who got themselves deleted came back 3 or 4 more times whining and calling me names for being censored.
Give this your attention, please. Everyone who agreed with this thread was calm and reasonable. A number of honest Mexicans agreed that Mexico is corrupt and dangerous and getting worse.
Everyone who disagreed, was in total denial, was foul-mouthed and attacked me instead of offering a single constructive solution to Mexico’s problems.
Tourists are in increasing danger as Mexican poverty deepens. Not from the war between the drug lords and the government, but from the police, the security guards, the hotel and resort employees. Mexico is steadily becoming more lawless and obviously, some of them don’t like people reporting on it.
My experience in Mexico is that Mexicans are good at hostility, it always lies just beneath the surface. They hate us for our better life, our greater prosperity, our lack of corruption compared to them and it’s why they flock here by the millions.
Now, if they would just leave their attitudes behind when they come here, but they don’t. Even when they share in the wealth, they still carry chips on their shoulders and try to turn our communities into the miserable barrios they fled from.
Some ways of life are just incompatible, and our “leaders” were fools to ever think NAFTA and open borders would work.
April 3rd, 2009 at 11:59 am
What kind of bozo posts crap like this. To bolster his claim of rampant kidnappings, he links to an article about Colombia. I guess his geography can’t be expected to be up to snuff if his thought processes are as convoluted and disturbed as he demonstrates.
And on, and on. Another idiot who can’t manage to keep a civil tongue. Yes, I deleted the rest of your rant. I keep saying, This Is My House, Don’t Attack The Messenger, Stick To The Thread, Be Civil, or be deleted, but some of you just don’t have the civility or maturity to deal with that.
April 3rd, 2009 at 12:17 pm
I’d delete sage with a small “s” Just for shits and giggles Rasta he’s sorta sayin’ were dumb and shortsighted it would appear your page is turning into a war zone for frustrated shut-ins …
April 3rd, 2009 at 1:06 pm
Heh, yeah, I’ve noticed that. Actually, there’s been at least a half dozen comments right before that last one that I deleted. Nothing but cussing and hate rants with no contributory value. Another 4 followed this one.
People like that who want freedom of speech need to create their own blogs. It’s like the old saying about newspapers. If you want freedom of the press, go buy one.
It’s not just the articles posted that set the quality of a blog, it’s also the level of censorship. Look at the major newsmedia blogs. All comments go to Moderation first and are sorted through before posting. This blog is far more lenient but limits still have to be imposed.
April 12th, 2009 at 12:04 pm
Where ever there is money, crime is sure to follow and the resorts in Mexico attract lots of it. Like flies to honey come the criminals. Yes, you might be victimized if you go, but it is NOT the US.
Rasta.. did you HONESTLY think when you went for your fishing trip that you were 100% immune from being a victim? I would bet your answer is no. It never crossed your mind. You gambled and lost and now you are angry. You created this blog as a result. Your blog, the title, “Don’t Go” is your personal revenge against your incident in Mexico.
Response: It never occurred to me during my fishing trip that I was in anything other than a decently civilized country until AFTER the incident at the dock. Up until then I mistakenly thought I was in a democracy ruled by law. My last trip to Cabo, 3 years before, was unmarred by any problems and I’d assumed that Mexico had finally put its bandito days behind it and joined the human race. Civilization is still a thin veneer on top of your legacy of savagery, unfortunately, and wore off quickly when our money dried up. After all these years, Mexico is still nothing more than a backwards banana republic. What a shame.
“Do research before putting mouth in gear.” Old American saying. I created this blog over 3 years ago and I wrote this post over one year ago and fully 6 months before my Mexican fishing trip, too. It was updated a year after it was written as a result of a new Government travel advisory, not because of my fishing trip. If you had checked through this post and the comments, you would have seen that.
If I wanted revenge I’d just grab a shotgun and go shoot wetbacks. This post is about warning people of a danger. My government has been very stridently doing exactly the same thing but I don’t hear any of you whining at my government. Just at me. How futile. If you think my government is wrong, why aren’t you crying to them instead?
All any of you Mexicans do is get all pissy and make excuses and justify the mess called “Mexico” instead of offering even just one suggestion on how to make anything right. No wonder Mexico is corrupt if all the rest are like you.
April 25th, 2009 at 1:50 am
Hey Rasta, I’m in Spain, takes a while to get here but a very lovely bunch of people I have encountered during my stay Who knew!! Travel to Mexico is off due to Swine flu outbreak . One good reason to come from the lands of ice and snow it kills so much of that nasty contagous stuff.
April 25th, 2009 at 10:27 am
Hope you’re having a great time! You know, Spain was once in the hands of Muslims, Moors, they were called, but the good people of Spain threw off the yoke of Islam. Now if the rest of the world would follow their example, things would be a lot more peaceful.
It was Muslims who blew up those trains in Spain. “Religion of peace”, my flame-throwing arse.
Anyway, have fun and congrats on not going anywhere near Mexico.
April 28th, 2009 at 3:49 pm
as far as im concern Mexico hates Canada they can go fuck themselves
a good Mexican is a dead one
April 29th, 2009 at 7:54 am
Interesting thread - willing to share my experiences with Mexico, and lucky for me, I have not had to encounter the troubling underside that others have had. Been travelling to Mexico off an on since the 90’s and have to agree that year over year, the attitude has been changing towards tourists. Last 10 years have been only to Cancun - to the same resorts, and there is a stability in the resort there (Royal Resorts) that you won’t see in most places - meaning that you will actually see the same faces working at the resort. Someone commented earlier that they were going to the Royal Sands - probably one of the better ones there. But off the resort grounds - the attitude is getting more “mercenary” by the locals.
Previously, the majority of the folks that I’ve met were of Mayan decent, but with the tourism boom in Cancun - there has been a huge infux from other areas of Mexico. I find that these “newcomers” in general look down on the local Mayans, and also look on the tourists as a cash cow to be milked. Lately - I’m left with more and more of a feeling that translates to “give me your money” and if not then disdain.
Cancun actually instituted a separate Police force just for tourists - but luckily have not had to use them. One of the reasons was to specifically address the rise in crime and corruption that the Mexican police is notorious for.
With a growing family, may need to rethink my travel destination - especially in light of the flu outbreak (Air Canada suspending flights starting May 4 through Jun 1) and the changing attitude that we’re encountering.
April 29th, 2009 at 8:50 am
Its easy ..Don´t come to Mexico !!!
I am very proud to be a mexican , speak spanish , my culture and I really heat that USA was near from us …poor Mexico!
.
April 29th, 2009 at 10:47 am
Hello.
Wow I read a lot of stories about Playa del Carmen, I though it was a safe tourist place.
I live in Cabo San Lucas, I’m proud Mexican and work in the hotel industry, and I’m worry that due to misinformation and economic crisis Cabo is actually dieing. Cabo used to be one of the most safest places I’ve been to, it was beautiful, the people were nice and it was up and coming, but now after the tourist ran away, hotels shut down, jobs were lost, some people is having a hard time finding an honest job and started doing illegal activities pretty much to locals (I haven’t heard otherwise but please correct me if I’m wrong).
I don’t feel insecure as if I were in the border or other states that have a violent issue because Baja California Sur (read SUR) is a fairly peaceful place, definitely not as peaceful as it used to be.
I can say to you first hand as a Mexican that at least Los Cabos, is a good place to visit, always we precautions that we all take. Don’t go to hotels you don’t trust try big corporate hotels the may cost a bit more but the security is a LOT better.
As RASTAMAN said don’t get drunk or drug (I’ve seen A LOT of American teens eating ecstasies at clubs) travel in big groups and as common courtesy BE FRIENDLY a lot of tourist are rude and mean to honest people like myself including small kids that only want to be friendly with them and talk to their kids. (An american male yelled at my 2 year old for shearing a lolly pop with his doughter at a mall WTF?)
If you feel like you shouldn’t be travelling, do not travel sometimes intuition tells you the right thing.
I hope that my beautiful Mexico come back to be the safe and amazing place it used to be
April 29th, 2009 at 12:17 pm
Thanks Sonia I feel your pain basically it sucks being a Mexican right…can you say “my government does’nt give a shit wether I live or die” Look at the nonsense the media is pointing out about your governments reaction to it’s people falling ill and fkg dieing “”you no have medical $$ you shit outta luck me homee “”And you people as a group do not show your outrage by staging massive demonstrations at your presidents fkg house !! Oh and apparently the Presidente’ is borrowing 23 million from the W.H.O omg Rasta ! Where the heck does the money go it sure doesnt go to its people. I prayed for a time like this where the people could see how stupid the economics are so by not providing what his people need flu has gone unchecked for months and now has crippled them further by removing the touristas and so it goes.
April 29th, 2009 at 3:59 pm
Since you ask, Ashleigh… We’re printing a lot of it, actually. When we “borrow” money from the Federal Reserve, what they do is print the amount that’s requested. This increases the total money supply, which is exactly like having a bumper crop of carrots. Carrots then sell for less. The more paper money there is, the less it’s worth. It’s called Inflation.
Right now, at this very minute, Mexican gangs in L.A. are indiscriminately killing blacks to drive them out. They’re committing genocide on blacks and the blacks are leaving L.A..
The gangs are racist against anyone not Hispanic and say whites are next. These gangsters are mostly all illegal aliens. One more reason why our borders should be sealed to all but decent, law-abiding people.
A note to Sonia: Considering the diseases rampant in Mexico, and I don’t mean the swine flu, I wouldn’t want my kid licking your kids lollipop, either. You think nothing of letting your tiny child swap spit with strange children from foreign countries and then get all pissy when the parents try to keep their kid safe from disease? You should have been keeping a closer eye on your little girl, what if the other kid has tuberculosis or some other nasty disease. Diseases kiill mostly little kids and the aged. Good luck on your kid reaching adulthood. Your anger is misplaced, you should be upset with yourself.
April 29th, 2009 at 5:47 pm
Ok ladies and gents…to be honest I have read alot of this thread (abeit not all) and have more questions than comments as I find that some of you have real life experiences and some are just hatin’. First the comments I’m mid thirties, born and raised and currently reside in San Diego, Marine Corps veteran and have been going to Mexico since I was 15. I have been all over TJ, Rosarito and Ensenada by personal vehicle but I haven’t been down to Baja Norte in appx 5-6 years because of the escalating violence and can confidently say I will NEVER go back. The last straw for me was about 3 years ago when a group of friends went down to K-38 surfing and upon thier return were pull over by the cops in TJ, robbed of EVERYTHING (even their trunks) walked to the edge of a cliff and fd-with at gunpoint (at nighttime of course). Thinking they were all going to be killed the cops miraculously vanished taking with them their trucks. So on foot they walked to a populated area and were offered “help” by some locals (BTW they all speak fluent spanish). The “help” they received was being driven to a local bank and being told to pull out some money to get clothes and gas money to get to the border. Once they did that they were again robbed and left on the streets. After a 10 mile or so walk to the border they were shaken but once again back on US soil. I could go on and on about personally getting shaken down by the cops and other friends being robbed at gun/knife point but I think it’s been covered pretty well.
So for the last 5 years or so I have been going to Cabo and absolutely love it. The people have been extremely welcoming and the whole vibe is that they know that you’re the one bringing in the dollars via tourism and respect that. For instance on one occasion I was down with some friends and one of thier last names was “Beene” so of course thier nickname was “Beener.” After a night on the town we got back to the resort and were waiting to be shuttled to our room and one of the people I was with yelled out “Hey, Beener!” and one of the hotel staff come out running and said “Yes, Sir!” Can you imagine how embarresed I was? My friend profusely apologized and tried to explain he was trying to get the attention of our friend, blah, blah but I don’t think he got his point across. The poor guy took it in stride and we just looked like a bunck of American aholes but nobody beat/robbed/rapped us or even blacklisted us. I have always felt that Cabo wa in its own mirocasim but after the whole swine flu issue I was rethinking a trip I have planned in June so I stumbled on this site.
After reading through all the replies I found the one the references Cabo specifically and now I’m worried. I know that people in desperate times can resort to desperate measures but I really don’t know what to expect. I’m a pretty stout fellow (6′2″ 230 lbs) but I’m not naive enough to think I can beat the shit out of 5 guys with guns/knives if I’m trying to fend people off my wife. The last time I was down there was about a year ago and I had my 2 year old and 1 year old with me and things were fabulous. Has it changed that much in so little time? Any help would be appreciated…
April 29th, 2009 at 10:14 pm
Paranoid… Here’s how it was when I was there last fall. Many of the resorts had closed down for lack of business. The cab drivers we talked to were scared because their income had dropped drastically. That incident at the fishing dock did it for my friend and I, seeing that pickup truck full of police with rifles sticking out all over and knowing they were coming for me, for turning my back on the dockmaster and walking away. At the airport we were harassed over those little turista forms they made us fill out on the plane coming in, and that’s all just retaliation over our government stiffening the rules for visas.
People at the resort were much less friendly than before and the service was nowhere near what it used to be. We could tell they were pissed off at us Americans for not providing them with the living they were accustomed to. We didn’t feel at all endangered at the resort, but we sure enjoyed it a lot less than before.
We did feel endangered at the fishing docks and were damned glad to get back to our resort hotel and even gladder to get on the plane for home. We will never go back.
Nothing ever stays the same, new places come in, old ones go out. I’m planning a fishing trip to Alaska this time around. Mexico is historically a violent country and it’s going through another cycle. You would probably be fine in Cabo, but I don’t think you’ll have all that much fun, and for Gods sakes, if you go, hang on to all your papers and be ready to present them when you leave. Remember also that if you get sick, you’re not in the U.S., you’re in Mexico.
April 30th, 2009 at 12:47 am
How much does it cost for Peace of Mind,what is a Vaca.when you just Do not know if the evil element will target you? I wonder if any of people who have been victimized knew they would be before hand sounds nuts eh? God gave us brains to problem solve and gut instinct to be cautious of hidden dangers I felt it loud and clear while in Mexico.
April 30th, 2009 at 1:07 am
I have a conspiracy theory that when Obama went to Mexico all did not go in Obama’s favour in regards to closed door meetings regarding Mexico becoming more honest in it’s politics of trade with other countries ie coffee from Mexico is drunk everyday all over the ,world ,oil,gas,chemicals,spices,tourism.They do not account on the books for the real amounts of income gained by all what they export .And now,they haven’t the cash to deal with a predicted influenza outbreak. Er go Mexico has some people dieing as they are uncared for by adequate medical services that were supposed to be planned for. it would be easy for a person to research all purchases made by other countries of Mexicos resourses and do a rough account of how much they recieved in their coffers. The tradition of being liars is over if they expect to continue doing trade world wide …..America and Canada are flexing pretty big muscles right now and it appears we have them on their knees.
April 30th, 2009 at 8:07 am
Mexico is a two-class system, upper and lower. It’s still a feudal system in actual practice, with no trickle-down to the masses. Those with prestige, rule and take the profits while the rest barely get by. From the government to the drug barons, this is true. Taking advantage of each other is the way of life in Mexico.
Our own government and corporations have taken advantage of and helped further their system and are partially responsible for the plague of Mexican peons who’ve come here to rip off whatever they can from our system. They’ve paid off the Elite and built factories that pay poor wages to the peasants, furthering their poverty.
Our money built a lot of their tourist resorts and gave the Elite some prosperity for a while, but they never took that prosperity and built on it or provided any alternative employment for the populace. Instead they just enjoyed the ride and sucked up the profits for themselves. Now the ride is over and the drug industry is the major source of income. The difference is that the drug czars want to be the new government while the Elite looks for new ways to take money from us, including colluding with the drug czars.
No one can expect to be as safe in a backwards, thoroughly corrupt country in worsening turmoil, as they would be in the U.S. or Canada or most Western European nations, so it’s all a matter of what level of risk you’re comfortable with for the sake of adventure.
April 30th, 2009 at 10:14 am
First these horrific crimes along the border, and now the swine flu… !Ay Caramba!
April 30th, 2009 at 3:28 pm
Rastaman- Thanks for the info.. Like I said I was down there about a year ago and it semmed business as usual..I stay at one of the resorts in the corridor about 10 min from town. Don’t know if that makes a difference or not?
Mexico as a whole is one JACKED UP place for sure. It has always amazed me how a country with such spectacular resources and (for the most part) hard working, proud citizens could still be a third world nation. But it just goes to show you that although they are allegedly a democratic society the argument can be made that it is actually totaltarian in its operation as ONLY the higher ups control the resources. The Mexican masses have more or less compensated for this by conducting themselves the way they do. To make it to the top in Mexico it is understood that you have to step on everyone you can (or everyone that will let you) on the way up. Bribes, kickbacks, rackettering, physical violence are ATTRIBUTES neccessary for success in Mexico as hard work and integrity are what one would strive for in our world. It’s truly crazy.
I know more than a few people who have tried to setup manufacturing facilities in Mexico and went in with altruistic intentions and ideas of a sybiotic relationship with the community. Thier thought was they could bring manufacturing technology to Mexico, hire local labor, pay them a premium over what was available to promote good will and have a quality product they could offer to sell for less.
What they found was that the government or local crime boss (usually one in the same) would demand outrageous kickbacks, only allow workers to be hired from a certain “union” which was controlled by the same entity, demanded ridiculous wages for the “people” and then basically strip the actual workers wage back down to nothing with “dues.” What you were left with is disgrutled workers and a productin facility with major quality control issues…once again VERY sad..
My thought…the US should annex Baja California…and I’m serious. A large number of the people are already here getting welfare/heathcare benefits. We should at least reap the benefits of being able to derive some revenue through the land. If the US annexed Baja, kept property rights in place via some sort of treaty and auctioned off all the goverment owned land and received property tax on it we would solve any national debt problem we had. Has everyone seen the miles and miles of coastline?? I bet the citizens of Baja would be down for it as well….just a thought
May 3rd, 2009 at 1:17 am
I’m of the mindset that if our governments don’t demand Mexico play fair our governments are just as shady we need to make a big rukus in both countries to see to .
May 6th, 2009 at 12:28 am
Ashleigh, you Canadians (Insults, vile abuse, moronic, sophomoric, pointless attack)
EDITED COURTESY OF RASTAMAN
May 6th, 2009 at 8:34 am
Rastaman:
About the lollypop, sorry if I did’n make my self clear, this candy was sealed not open and was way before this flu nonsens, and I understand that kids should never share OPEN candy, the reaction of this man was outrageous almost hiting my one year old, so I’m sorry but anger is well placed.
May 7th, 2009 at 8:05 am
Sonia, Wait a minute. In your last comment your kid was TWO years old!
I’m beginning to doubt you. Are you sure this was an American that lost his temper at your child? Are you saying that Mexicans never do anything like that? Are you saying that spit on a wrapped candy is safer than spit on an unwrapped candy?
Children do two things: catch and pass on more diseases than adults, and DIE from more diseases than adults. Flu nonsense or no. Are you sure this even happened? Because your story is making less sense as we go along.
May 7th, 2009 at 1:11 pm
No one spit no where, where did you read that? And you know what I’m done trying to understand you people. Yes people from all nationalities sometimes lose their tempers but I will never forgive someone who deliberated tried to hurt a small child (American, Mexican, Chinese whatever)
If you don’t want to believe me that’s fine, that won’t erase the fact the this incident DID happened.
I’m truly sorry for all those tourists, American or others that suffer mistreat during their Mexican vacation.
On the other hand ask people who did had an awesome time here in Mexico and also review their point of view, thankfully I know a lot of my guest that have made their second home Mexico.
May 7th, 2009 at 10:20 pm
Sonia, that’s great but can we get back to your 2 year old suddenly becoming a 1 year old?
The spit is on the candy from being in a mouth. What did you think? You said it was a LOLLIPOP! Lollipops go in THE MOUTH. The mouth is full of SPIT.
No spit no where? On a lollipop that a very small child has? See why you don’t make sense and I think you made this all up? You can’t even remember how old your own child is. That’s because you don’t have one. I caught you in a lie.
“I know a lot of my guest that have made their second home Mexico.” You have a hotel in Mexico. That’s why you keep pushing Mexican travel.
Hey, Ashleigh. We got another one here.
May 12th, 2009 at 7:18 pm
you even deleted her reply, she was not offending or anything but you homo, you always think you are right you fucking gringo, retarded human being; i dare you talk to me in Spanish. let’s see who is smarter you piece of human shit. And you call Mexico 3rd world country; you fucking gringos are 3rd world people
May 12th, 2009 at 7:19 pm
i hope an arab blows himself up near your house, hahaha next jihad in your home you fucking white trash, (that’s if you are white at all) maybe you are just a fucking nigger from Jamaica, hahaha you fucking negro, slave!!!!!!!!!
May 12th, 2009 at 10:11 pm
Ahhh, another happy, peaceful Mexican. Just makes you want to run right over and vacation your ass off with these fine, well-bred folks, doesn’t it? I take it he or she doesn’t like black people much, though.
The “she” this creature refers to is the one with the phony story about Americans being baby abusers, and these two must know each other or this one wouldn’t know I deleted “her” reply. It was in fact offensive.
Talk to you in Spanish? Ok, hang on while I dig through my phrase book here…. mmm… ummmm… Ah, this should do it: Estupido capullo, cago en tu leche. Cochina, come mierda.
There. Was that as good for you as it was for me? Of course, any response in Spanish will be deleted. Actually, any response at all will be deleted. Frustrating, isn’t it?
May 13th, 2009 at 12:08 pm
Rasta c’mon mate your blog comes up right at the top of choices when you put “dont go to Mexico” a very simple sentence but it enerves these poor individuals that You have the power to have this page to say whatever comes to your mind on the third world status of their country and the realities of the lies and corruptions that envelope their world. Take Sonia or whomever she is she can’t not lie she must ,to keep the code of her country because she lives the madness everyday and sadly believes “it is good” THIS is a Fact : Mexico Will change! be it quietly or kicking and screaming into the world economy and we the democracy’s will bend them to our will of transparency and truthfullness in business,politics and humanity.I think when these ignorant individuals send in these rediculous notes you should seriously consider deleteing them immediately they feed off the swearing and mudslinging showing off like uneducated simpletons these must be the people who will lose when they have to play nice. This page is great keep it up!!
May 13th, 2009 at 12:23 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3fW82DbLKQ Hey a while back I had a theory on the swiney flu that hit our friends in Mexico here’s more Oh and another point only Homos call people homos …everybody knows that
May 13th, 2009 at 12:28 pm
I leave some of those profane diatribes in once in awhile just to illustrate the point of this posting. This persons IP address is central Mexico and his/her attitude is a common one, and people should be aware of it. There’s a lot of hatred simmering in Mexico against citizens of the U.S. because we made a better life. What we have is far superior to what they have in Mexico, and they hate us for it even while they swarm over here trying to get it for themselves.
Latino types are famously hot tempered and emotional, and jealousy and hate go together. It’s also true that you can’t make a silk purse from a sows ear, and poor Mexicans still act like poor Mexicans when they live here, which is why Southern California is turning into a crime ridden Hell hole with all the vendettas and drive-bys and hateful viciousness.
If that’s how they act here, with all our laws and police oversight, think how dangerous it’s getting for us in Mexico, WITHOUT the laws or any police oversight at all.
No, I have to thank that last Mexican commenter for bringing this more into the light.
May 14th, 2009 at 2:04 am
I’m in the uk right now and well there again lies another blog but there is something that comes up with us ‘king Georgers’ is the sense of entitlement certain groups of’ newcomers’ we’ll call them challenging the democratic systems we have in democracies to bend more to the place where they so deperately needed to escape from for “PEACE” Politically i see our countries true patriots being pushed aside so the newcomers can be made to feel at home Canada is rapidly hitting the laws to seal up what we stand for before we turn our country into a playgroung for third world gansters,personally I like the law where they are sent back to their country and never allowed here or anywhere else unless they row a boat in. Were also recruiting big powerful UK crime specialists who are arresting hundreds of foreign criminals and “gettin’ er done” So if your a badassed dirty mexican in Canada your going down Oh it’s also a crime now to with hold info on your criminal relatives a group was told by the police that they would all go back to starving in the homeland if they didn’t straighten up. In regards to working on the black the govt.has also made an incentive for you to hire a numbered company. It costs us in the end to set up these safeguards but Rasta isn’t our safety in our countries worth it. At the end of the day it always comes back to money ….
May 15th, 2009 at 8:27 pm
this is so stupid, ik live in mexico i’ve always have, i live in tijuana the most violent city of latinamerica & i’m alive u stupid morrons yes there is confrontation between the cartels & thee police & like 10 people die each day BUT NOT THE INOOCENT PEOPLE thats so stupid .. an american highschool is more dangeroues than the whole city & were like we are thanks to you americans for overconsuming so much drugs
& selling weapons to every moron that has money thank u so much 
u know what, yes! dont come our city is better without u reddicks
May 16th, 2009 at 7:56 am
“Stupid” is getting angry at those who speak out about your crime and violence and decide to avoid you. Stupid is this: “dont come our city is better without u reddicks” when you’re starving because you rely totally on tourists to survive. Stupid is not saying YES, we have a problem that scares you off and we will now work hard to fix it.
Actually, the majority of those weapons are Mexican Army guns, and mostly from China. Most of the drugs consumed here are consumed by Latinos. It’s the increase in the illegal alien population that has increased the drug consumption.
Stupid is when your government slaps a wad of punitive tariffs on our farm produce over a failed trucking program, right when you need us the most. Stupid is blaming us for your own problems. Stupid is biting all the hands that have fed you - ours.
We average citizens don’t have the money right now to go spend lots of it in Mexico or anywhere else and you act like we should feel guilty over that and for not supporting you Mexicans. Gee, would it help if we begged your forgiveness for losing our jobs? Stop whining and start cleaning up your act. Hey, here’s a novel idea: Find ways to help improve BOTH our economies simultaneously instead of trying to suck us dry like useless, unproductive leeches. What do you think?
May 16th, 2009 at 8:32 am
“LIVED IN MEXICO ALL HIS LIFE” nuff said.
May 17th, 2009 at 6:28 am
4 US citizens found strangled in Tijuana
Thu May 14, 10:15 pm ET
TIJUANA, Mexico – The bodies of four U.S. citizens were found strangled, beaten and stabbed in a van in this border city, two days after they reportedly left their Southern California homes for a night at the Mexican clubs, U.S. officials said Thursday.
The victims, ages 19 to 23 years old, were found tied up on Saturday, but their deaths were not reported earlier because they were under investigation, said Fermin Gomez, an assistant state prosecutor in Baja California.
U.S. consular officials in Tijuana said the victims — two men and two women from the San Diego and Chula Vista areas — were U.S. citizens. The state attorney general’s office in Baja California said one of the women was Mexican.
Their deaths are the latest in a string of violence in Tijuana that authorities blame on a bloody turf war between drug cartels.
“I just don’t think kids should be going to Tijuana right now,” Chula Vista police Lt. Scott Arsenault told the San Diego Union-Tribune. “They ran into the wrong people, obviously.”
Bernard Gonzales, a spokesman for the Chula Vista Police Department, said a friend told the women’s parents they were headed to nightclubs in Tijuana on Thursday night. They were reported missing the next day when they did not answer their cell phones.
May 17th, 2009 at 6:41 am
Kidnapped San Bernardino boy found in Mexico
Authorities say a 3-year-old boy abducted from his family home in San Bernardino nearly two weeks ago by two armed men has been reunited with his mother.
The San Bernardino County sheriff’s department says the reunion took place Saturday afternoon, a day after detectives and FBI agents received a call from Mexican officials in the border town of Mexicali saying they found a boy that could be Briant Rodriguez.
Officials say the boy’s mother, Maria Rosalina Millan, flew to the neighboring U.S. city of Calexico Friday night to see the child, but that she was forced to wait as Mexican officials confirmed his identity and examined him.
A spokesman for the Baja California state prosecutor’s office says police found the boy wandering alone on the streets of a residential area Friday and turned him over to child protective custody.
Investigators and Millan, flew to the neighboring U.S. city of Calexico Friday night to see the child and confirm his identity, Beavers said.
But the mother was initially forced to wait as Mexican officials demanded the boy’s birth certificate, which must be authenticated, and other paperwork as part of that country’s identification process.
A Mexicali police officer found the boy wandering alone on the streets of a residential neighborhood Friday, said Gerardo Franco, a spokesman for the Baja California state prosecutor’s office. He was turned over to child protective custody.
Mexican authorities planned to examine the boy to determine if he has been abused, and they must also confirm that he is an American citizen, Franco said.
He did not know when the authorities would finish examining the boy and determining his citizenship. He said he had no details about the child’s condition or how long he had been left alone.
Beavers, the sheriff’s spokeswoman, said she did not know the mother’s immigration status but confirmed the boy’s U.S. citizenship.
Investigators were continuing to investigate why Briant was abducted and why his family was targeted. Millan said two men burst into her home on May 3, tied up the family, stole money and other property then left with her youngest child.
The kidnappers have not demanded a ransom and the initial investigation pointed to the kidnappers being strangers to the family.
Federal and local investigators were looking at several theories, including that the Spanish-speaking kidnappers were from Mexico and may have had ties to organized crime there.
Authorities later released a photo of two men they said were the kidnappers. The blurred image was taken from a surveillance camera in a home-improvement store as the men bought tape believed to have been used to bind Millan and her children.
The family lives in a modest, single-story home in a lower-income area abutting the city of San Bernardino, about 60 miles east of Los Angeles.
May 17th, 2009 at 7:52 am
Lightning-strike raids in DHS end with 120 arrested
Note: MANY of the “gentleman” arrested in this raid were illegals.
Many residents across Desert Hot Springs awoke just after dawn Friday to the startling pops of nearby flash-bang grenades, and neighbors’ doors smashed open by battering rams.
But none of the residents likely knew the full scope of what had unfolded in those early moments.
Authorities had launched Operation Falling Sun — the largest and most comprehensive law enforcement operation in the history of Riverside County — in an effort to take back the west valley city from the decades-long grip of gangs, drugs and violent crime.
“I wanted these gang members in DHS to feel like the sun had fallen on them with this operation,” Riverside County District Attorney Rod Pacheco said Friday.
By the afternoon, this coordinated effort of nearly 700 federal, state, county and local police officers from 35 agencies would net the arrest of more than 120 gang members, felons and other criminals without firing a single bullet, officials said.
“This day will be marked in the history books as the turning point in our community to the residents of Desert Hot Springs,” Police Chief Patrick Williams said Friday.
Shortly before 7 a.m., a caravan of specially trained forces in marked and unmarked police cars, from a mix of agencies including the Banning Police Department and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, gathered along Pierson Boulevard.
Then, shortly after 7 a.m., the first major wave rolled out with swift, surgical-like precision. Law enforcement teams, protected by bullet-proof vests and many armed with semi-automatic weapons, raided about 40 Desert Hot Springs sites.
“It was scary. Scary,” said Victor Pardo, who lives just two doors down from a home in the 66-500 block of Estrella Avenue that the FBI entered — with the help of a large, tank-like vehicle.
The booms were “very hard, like they were destroying something,” he said.
It would be the first of multiple waves targeting gang members, parolees, drug dealers and other criminals. Several helicopters — including at least one Black Hawk —kept watch from above in a clear morning sky.
On the ground, law enforcement teams traveled in groups of about 10, usually a mix of local and federal authorities. Parades of marked and unmarked police cars soon became a common sight zipping across main Desert Hot Springs thoroughfares such as Pierson, Palm Drive, Hacienda Avenue and Two Bunch Palms Drive.
Occasionally, students heading to school casually would pass SWAT team members and other agents on a raid — an indication authorities had the situation under control.
By 3 p.m. authorities had hit 485 locations, Pacheco said. About 40 teams were assigned more than 10 addresses each to visit, Pacheco added.
The mission included serving a gang injunction notice against two active gangs in the city, the West Drive Locos and the True Crime Boys
Neighbors sometimes would give a thumbs-up sign as police arrested suspects, Pacheco said. Those arrested were brought to an operations staging area outside at Pierson and Karen Avenue.
“They’re everywhere!” said Bill Fowler, 43, of the massive police presence. He spotted enforcement detaining people as he drove into work at Posh Pups dog and cat grooming, located at Buena Vista Avenue and Palm Drive.
“It’s good they’re coming in and doing cleanup of the city. But at the same time, I don’t want it turning into a police state,” Fowler said.
Falling Sun relied on coordination by agents from Immigration Customs Enforcement, the FBI, the multi-agency Riverside County Gang Task Force, and special operations forces from police departments as far away as Chino, among others.
The Department of Housing and Urban Development was brought in to search for crimes occurring in HUD housing.
“HUD arrested someone today,” Pacheco said. “They did a search warrant on a HUD house and found a meth lab in the walls.”
The operation has been in effect since August 2008, although planning began months earlier. Agents from the sheriff’s department, the district attorney’s office, the Desert Hot Springs Police Department, and other groups helped plan behind closed doors in the Desert Hot Springs Police Department, Pacheco said. The group was dubbed “Team DHS.”
Team DHS further helped police solve local gang-related crime, including two of three recent fatal shootings in Desert Hot Springs, Pacheco said.
Operation Falling Sun will continue today, Pacheco said during an afternoon news conference outlining the scope of the effort. He declined to specify when it would end.
Pacheco said he owed much of the impetus for Falling Sun to the family of 20-year-old U.S. Marine Henry Lozano, from Desert Hot Springs, who was killed in December 2001.
Lozano’s parents, Henry Lozano, 66, and Donna Lozano, 65, worked with the district attorney’s office to find their son’s killer.
They joined Pacheco and other law enforcement officers at the news conference.
“I did what a mother would do: I never gave up,” Donna Lozano said during the press conference as she was watched by her husband and their daughters, Shianne, 31, and Lisa, 42.
Nearly five years later, Desert Hot Springs resident Emilio Manuel Avalos, who officials say is the leader of the West Drive Locos, was arrested on suspicion off killing Lozano.
“He (Henry) was always a hero to us, but now he’s a hero to the community,” Donna Lozano said.
Immediately following the conference, Desert Hot Springs officials made sure the message of a new day for the city was not lost on anyone.
A history of crime and violence was bulldozed to the ground — literally, as two bulldozers leveled a dilapidated, gutted old house near on Estrella Avenue that officials said the West Drive Locos had used to conduct operations.
Its windows were shattered, its walls riddled with gang-related graffiti. Desert Hot Springs leaders and residents calmly watched as the bulldozers reduced it to a pile of rubble.
“This is the beginning,” Williams said after the leveling.
Erica Solvig of The Desert Sun contributed to this report.
May 17th, 2009 at 9:01 am
My mother lives in DHS. It used to be a quiet little retirement town, not much traffic, nothing much ever happened. A good place to go relax in one of the hot springs spas or visit the Cactus Gardens.
Then all the illegal alien Mexicans moved in and totally wrecked the place and endangered all the peaceful old citizens.
I don’t hate Mexicans. There’s a lot to like about them. I sure do hate the scum-sucking dirt-bag walking turds that have come here, though. They can all die of plague, I’d cheer.
May 17th, 2009 at 1:26 pm
Well one thing is telling in all our information in regards to these pigs living in Mexico and hiding in our countries the day has come for them to look over their shoulders because were not Taking it anymore we have the money we are creating foreign gang specialists to fumigate perhaps the Presidente of Mexico is learning that he’ll have to spend a little bit of cash to solve his countries problem because when we send them back it makes it even less crime money for these pigs to share.
June 1st, 2009 at 2:22 pm
Look, I came on this post for a reason. I want to warn others not to travel to Mexico because of personal experience. It’s a long drawn out story I really don’t want to go back over. In a nutshell, I had my head stomped in by Federales. I was minding my own business. Dressed meagerly. I had committed no crime or minor infraction. When I begged “por favor” “no mas” “no carcel por favor”, they all laughed and kicked me harder. I woke up in a little clinic with a pumpkin face and 30 stitches on the side of my head. Somebody watching had felt sorry for me. He and his wife carried me to their car and payed the doctor at the clinic to work on me. After the cops relieved me of my wallet, passport, and ring. I had a hell of a time gettin’ through customs, 6 hours. The customs man told me this kind of thing was becoming all to common and he wouldn’t let someone take his dog to Mexico. This, by the way, coming from a Mexican American customs agent.
June 1st, 2009 at 2:53 pm
P.S. I’ve lived in the greater L.A. area all my life (30 years). I’ve been a victim of a crime one time. While living in East Long Beach about five years ago, my car was broken into. I go to what are considered bad areas regularly. My wife has family in Compton (by Wilmington and El Segundo blvds), and I have friends in East LA, Boyle Heights, Downtown,
and South LA. I’ve had zero problems here. I go to Mexico for two days and get stomped by the Police. To compare Los Angeles, one of the wealthiest cities in the world, to a third world turd pit like Mexico is absurd.