US State Dept. on travel in Mexico (1 Viewer)

[Jaeger01]

This was just issued by the State Dept. re-Mexico:

http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_3028.html

and I am considering a vacation down there.

Jaeger near Chicago

 

[njlarsen]

Something similar was in effect when I visited Mexico in 2000. We rented a car and drove around for two weeks, starting from Mexico City, cirkling through Chiapas and back. Everything went fine.

<rant mode on>As usual in the US, dangers are highly exaggerated, because otherwise it is likely you will be hit by a gigantic law suit from the one victim of crime. <rant mode off>. Consider for yourself if the dangers of visiting Mexico are really that much worse than visiting a big city in the US.

Niels

 

[TwoDipsfromAmsterdam]

Tend to agree with NJL. Foreign Offices (State Depts) tend to be ultra-conservative to protect their own backs. That's not to say that you shouldn't be cautious but if you took their advice too seriously you wouldn't get out of bed in the morning. I've just got back from Barcelona (the "theft capital of the world"). Took sensible precautions like not flashing expensive cameras and staying aware - no problems.

Enjoy your travelling.

 

[jthoppes]

Look at the distribution of warnings: concentrated in urban areas near the US border. Nothing birders need worry about: there aren't any endemics in Tijuana and Juarez.

 

[Dave B Smith]

Jaeger,
I pretty much agree with what others have said. I lived in Mexico (Campeche) for 5 years and loved it. As noted, the border areas and in my opinion Mexico City are probably the most dangerous places. The suggestion to avoid driving at night where possible is excellent advice both due to crime as well as some pretty dark, rough roads where a traffic accident could be the biggest safety concern.

There are a number of good trip reports on BF in relation to birding in Mexico that might help give you an idea of what to expect. Also, if you have any specific goals or areas you'd like more info on just post a query and I'm sure you'll get some good feedback.

Buen Viaje!