Traveling through Mexico

[SubliminalHorn]

So my best buddy wants to take a trip in mid to late 2008 through Mexico before (if) he gets into either grad or medical school.

He's the adventurous type. Big risk taker. Me...not so much. He wants to drive from northern Mexico to Central America. My gut tells me that this is very dangerous. But I also think it would be pretty badass to take a trip like this with him who I consider my brother.

Does anyone have any thoughts on this? Someone who is more worldly or traveled than me.

 

[happy fun ball]

You should not have any trouble in Mexico, the bandito crap is way overdone. I've driven from Laredo to Mexico City a number ot times with no trouble at all. Of course, it would be best if you were not in too blingy of a car, and it would help if someone speaks spanish, and none of you are too mouthy at small town dive bars.

Can't really speak for Oaxaca and points south, but north of the capital it's no less safe than driving back roads in Louisiana or Mississippi.

 

[rage-a-holic]

What Happy said...I've driven all over Mexico and never had any problems. Keep in mind that gas and toll roads are recockulously expensive there.

 

[po elvis]

my folks, who are pushing 70, drive down into the interior of Mexico every year. they never have any problems or reservations.

they have had a cop try to shake them down on a traffic stop. instead of just handing over the 50 bucks my dad insisted the guy take him to his police chief. somehow that worked and he let my parents go for free. i do not recommend that approach though.

 

[pulque]

Take the risk gringo. You will never forget it....

 

[LondonOllie]

As long as you are not an *** to people, you should be fine.

On a side note...

If you don't know some already, learn some Spanish and use it. Talking to people in their own language (even a few words) goes a long way.

 

[DeadHeadHorn]

Re: Central America, I don't think it's much riskier than Mexico. The roads won't be as nice, and the drivers are a bit crazier, but it should be fine. Check the safety situation in Guatemala...I have heard that it's a bit sketchy there recently. We spent 8 weeks there without a problem, but that was a couple years ago and the political climate has changed a bit.

Honduras was great, Nicaragua was a bit shady, Costa Rica's safer than California, and Panama is alright as well. Tons of gringos there too.

So go. It will be badass.

 

[Upgrayedd]

I've never driven in Mex but I have ridden buses from Matamoros to the Belize border. No problems anywhere.

I have heard that it is a very good idea to not drive at night down there.

Other than that, it's as safe as backroads here, as another poster has said.

 

[LongIslandIceSIP]

Visit Mexico .com

Extreme sports, white water rafting, camping, cliff diving, jungles, eco-tourism, etc...

enjoy!!!

 

[SubliminalHorn]

Thanks everyone. I'm really starting to look forward to this trip.