You finally run the story!! wrote on Nov 25, 2007 9:27 PM:Stay out of Mexico! My son and his girlfriend lost their car and everything they had last weekend. They had gone down for lobster in Puerto Nuevo and were robbed of everything they had when they left the restaurant. They had to hitch a ride with another San Diego couple who took them directly to the border. Never again!! Fortunately they are alive and will now go for lobster dinners only on this side of the border!! Oh yeah, they had guns put to their heads!! Great place!!

Joe wrote on Nov 25, 2007 9:29 PM:Nobody should go to mexico, it is not safe

Border agents report wrote on Nov 25, 2007 9:30 PM:The agents at the border said they usually get about 20 reports of tourists being robbed everyday! It is so routine they think nothing of it and don't even let the victims use the restroom or phones in the offices. They send them over to the McDonalds.

GFN wrote on Nov 25, 2007 9:36 PM:I will never, EVER, take my family there again!

You are entering a third world country when you enter Mexico wrote on Nov 25, 2007 10:04 PM:I stopped going many years ago I learned of US citizens getting involved in traffic accidents and then not having any rights. In one case a US citizen died because he was not allowed to get to US hospitals. The criminals have the guns while everyone else is left defenseless. I don't have to experience an incident to realize if it can happen to someone else, it can happen to me and my loved ones.

What a surprise! wrote on Nov 25, 2007 10:05 PM:Mr Edgar Lopez its time to pull your head out of the ground and acknowledge there is a problem. Unless of course you too are on the take and look the other way. Nice "precautions" dont drive at night, caravan, dont camp alone? Amazing, are these suggestions for travelling in Iraq or in a country that's 15 minutes away? What a joke. I for one am done spending my money in that run-down third world dump!!!

What a joke Mr. Lopez! wrote on Nov 25, 2007 10:55 PM:The Mexican secretary for public safety,Mr. Lopez, says crimes against foreigners are infrequent;however the US Ambassador in TJ states: "No one can be considered immune from kidnapping on the basis of occupation, nationality, or other factors," the announcement states. "Criminals have been known to follow and harass U.S. citizens traveling in their vehicles, particularly in border areas including ... Tijuana." I think I'll believe the US officials rather than the person who wants to encourage tourism with my families well being!I am forever saying out of Mexico!

Gary wrote on Nov 25, 2007 11:21 PM:It is unsafe for any American to go to mexico. Beside you don't need to. Everything they have is already up here. May I recommend Puerto Escondido, or Cabo San Marcos.

I used to go regularly... wrote on Nov 25, 2007 11:24 PM:...but no more! I was pulled over for "speeding" shortly after crossing the border. The cops planted marijuana in the ashtray of the car and threatened to take me and my 2 surfing buddies to jail. Instead they escorted us to the nearest ATM and waited outside as my 2 friends withdrew $300 each. The cops waited in their police car in front of the bank, took the bribe through their window, and then left us lost in the middle of TJ. It's not worth it anymore!!

Paco wrote on Nov 26, 2007 1:35 AM:Boycott Mexico! Anyone who goes to that Third World toilet of a country is nuts.

Randy wrote on Nov 26, 2007 3:05 AM:Mexico is making great strides towards becoming a bond fide 3rd world country!

DMB wrote on Nov 26, 2007 3:27 AM:I am personally tired of US citizens being abused and unprotected by mexican law enforcement(if we can even call them that). I was pulled over in Mexico and robbed of my cell phone, money and other belongings by Police down there and my advice for all americans or any tourist is not to go to Mexico and spend or lose you hard earned money or belongings. Find another place where they actually appreciate you patronage.

Skip wrote on Nov 26, 2007 4:23 AM:I used to love going to visit Mexico. Never again. Just read some of the horror stories about Nuevo Laredo. We never have been good neighbors with mexico. And this is the country that El President Bush want's to form the North American Union with. Mexico is the most corrupt country. All I can say is never again.

This is. wrote on Nov 26, 2007 4:33 AM:Only the beginning. There will be a full scale revolt in Mex within 4 years. Too many illegals forced to go back, you see.

Hobeast wrote on Nov 26, 2007 5:38 AM:Baja is CrUnK!

Typical wrote on Nov 26, 2007 5:47 AM:Nothing changes.

Karl wrote on Nov 26, 2007 6:19 AM:I quit going many years ago when the traffic accident mentioned above happened. the guys name was Kraft and he was from Valley Center. I think anyone going to Mexico is either nuts or in denial about the dangers.

Legal wrote on Nov 26, 2007 6:25 AM:When you travel to a Third World country, expect the worst. Better yet, don't go there. Whether at home in the U.S. or abroad, the American is an opportune target of exploitation.

Annie C. wrote on Nov 26, 2007 6:34 AM:My family has traveled together to Puerto Nuevo for over 25 years. We have also traveled all over the world. Spending this Thanksgiving with our friends who run a hotel there, we discussed the current events in tourism. We discussed how Americans coming to Mexico drink tequila and act in manners they would never act at home. But even they are upset about these recent happenings. Broad daylight crimes. Men in masks? Robbers dressed like cops! Attacking surfers! Mr. Weber is definitely someone who knows how to travel safely through Mexico. I understand why he would not want to return. I have trust in most of the people in Mexico. We have found most destinations to be 99% full of wonderful people and there is always someone who wants to destroy our faith in human nature. While I would like to say I would never go to Mexico again. I will. Just like I will never let the terrorists keep me off an airplane. But I will not be taking the same precautions. I will add even more. Gone are the days I will head their alone like I used to do. I will stay at a reputable hotel ... Stay in the hotel after dark and walk to PN for Lobster and take a taxi if you must go dancing somewhere. Stay on the toll roads and don't stop for any police cars until you get to a toll booth. They are aware of why you will not stop. The owners of this hotel care about your safety. And the tourism industry down there is very concerned as they love their work and they care about your safety. Heck they care about their own. But when ever something like this happens I try and put it in perspective. How safe is it in San Diego, LA, NYC, Washington DC if you are in the wrong place at the wrong time? Everyday bad things like this happen all over the world. Crimes like this happen every day in the States. It is a sad statement of the times. Or is it. I grew up on the east coast and often heard and saw people who were connected to the Italian and Irish mafias. So - I am so sad to learn of these recent events. What surf spots are these crimes happening? I would like to know more since my husband goes surfing each time we are there! Next time the surf board might have to stay home until this stuff stops. What time of day did those kids get their car stolen from Puerto Nuevo? That one is incredible - there are police officers all over town.

Andrew wrote on Nov 26, 2007 6:37 AM:It is happening, and has been for a while. I was also surfing at coastal bluff when my car was blocked in by three men with a gun in a red 2wd Toyota pick up truck w/CA plates. Sound familiar? One guy couldn't have been more than 17, and they were pretending to be Mexican police. I have not been back since, and that was 15 years ago. If you must go, go with a large posse.

Sickofit wrote on Nov 26, 2007 6:40 AM:"Our friendly neighbors to the south". There is no reason to go to that third world country.

Kate wrote on Nov 26, 2007 7:09 AM:ALL American tourist should stay out of Baja, and all of Mexico. Since their corrupt government does nothing to protect us, we should not spend a dime down there. See how fast something would be done if our $$ stopped pouring in!

Greg in Oceanside wrote on Nov 26, 2007 7:14 AM:Crime and corruption is rampant in Mexico and the Mexican consulate denies there's any problems. The Mexican government is a total joke and law enforcement is a farce. Do you think these sorts of crimes could be perpetrated here in the US? These 'pull-over' robberies where vehicles and possessions are taken by banditos, or rogue cops is nothing new and happens all the time especially on lonely stretches of highway in the northern states. This brings up a deeper, more comprehensive reason why we should be very cautious in accepting immigrants from Mexico. Why? Because of the social mores and philosophical differences between our two countries. Word to the wise: STAY OUT OF MEXICO. There are plenty of good, safe places to visit (and surf) here in the US.

Manuel wrote on Nov 26, 2007 7:22 AM:Think about it. You've got people willing to die to get out of Mexico. Why go there? The place is corrupt. Bottom line? There you are guilty until proven innocent.

Dog Lady wrote on Nov 26, 2007 7:22 AM:My husband was robbed by three men at gun point down there that was the worst thing that's happened to him .....until....after 7 months in Iraq where 4 ceiling tiles fell on him after a bomb blast. Our last visit to Mexico was 2 years ago this month.......we won't be going back unless WE can arm ourselves!

Scott wrote on Nov 26, 2007 7:26 AM:I haven't been in years and never had any intention of going back. Seriously...the place isn't even safe for a lot of Mexicans. Why would it be safe for Americans?

Robert24 wrote on Nov 26, 2007 7:30 AM:It really is time to boycott Mexico. They send their unwanted here illegally, under the guise of looking for work, they do not recognize or respect our laws, they send huge waves of drugs across the border, and now blatant robbing and raping with no regard or consequence. I quit going to Mexico many years ago, and have absolutely no desire to ever go back. Sad, when it is a land of such gracious people (for the most part) and such natural beauty and resources. Pray that not only does Mexico get their "poop in a group" soon, but also that the trashing of this Country by the "unwanteds" that they keep sending over ends as well.

North County wrote on Nov 26, 2007 7:38 AM:The problem at the border area is just the tip of the iceberg for Mexico. That country is rife with corruption and issues. NO ONE is immune from being robbed, kidnapped or even killed down there. We need to really form a protest at the border going the other direction like they do to prove a point. If 50% of travleres stopped going to Tijuana, etc most business would need to close their doors. Challenge is then they would illegally cross into the US.

Don wrote on Nov 26, 2007 7:38 AM:This stuff has been going on for years Baja is a FOREIGN COUNTRY, going down there is like hitting yourself on the head with a hammer because it feels good when you stop. Its a cesspool there and you will be treated accordingly. I raced down there for years and after being robbed at gun point I quit going down. There is NO law. Mordida rules Stay safe and stay out.

RICK wrote on Nov 26, 2007 7:42 AM:It is sad, the many fun trips to Baja in my life will not be repeated by my son. I have a friend who is older and upon retirement he and some of his friends purchased houses in a cul-de-sac together in the area around Rosarita, he recently told me of shoot-outs between rival gangs in Puerto Nuevo. Mexico has always been a dump, but since the Presidente has gone after the drug gangs they have moved to northern Mexico and this is the result. It is a shame that so many poor rely on the tourist trade for an income.

Allen wrote on Nov 26, 2007 7:44 AM:I've had a friend get involved in an accident and got robed while they were trapped in side their car. Northern Baja has become worse with greedy desperate out laws. I have been all over Baja for 20 years. I can't take my family, there are stories of people dying from simple accident that go wrong due to the local Mexican Police not willing to help. Unfortunately it's not going to get better.

fedup wrote on Nov 26, 2007 7:46 AM:......this is not news, stay out of this corupt country!

esteban wrote on Nov 26, 2007 7:50 AM:The same precautions are needed in certain parts of San Diego and their are plenty of dirty cops around here too. All it takes is some common sense. If you don't want to get screwed when you get in a car accident in TJ make sure you have Mex Insurance before you drive there and don't drive like an idiot. This is the same thing you would need driving in the US, common sense and Insurance. Just because you are an American in Mexico you don't have any special rights.

Art wrote on Nov 26, 2007 7:51 AM:Letter:I just returned from my sixth trip to Mexico in the last six years. While an eye toward caution is required for any traveler, Mexico can still be enjoyed by travelers of all ages. I'm sixty-one now and travel with my older sister by car, bus and plane to locations both remote and popular. A "bad trip" can occur between your home and the parking lot of your local strip mall. Mexico has its problems, many of which originate with the demand for drugs in the U.S. and spill over across the border. Most Mexicans greet Americans warmly and they are often better "neighbors" than we are. Yes, I've been bitten by an occasional traffic cop over the many years (starting in 1973) that I've taken road trips from Denver to the Guatemalan border. I've even had a drunk point a gun at me on one occasion. Still, the commentary from the readers of your article screams hysterics. Perhaps they could spend a little more time reading the local crime reports before dumping on an entire country and culture. I do encourage them to stay home, though, and not give the rest of the American traveling public a bad name.

Fred H wrote on Nov 26, 2007 7:55 AM:Remember: It is THEY who need US. Years ago I spoke with the owner of a lobster restaurant in Puerto Nuevo. He bought his lobster at COSTCO in San Diego and the lobster was actually from Australia. I do not travel to Mexico any longer.

Gary in Murrieta wrote on Nov 26, 2007 8:09 AM:I used to go to Mexico all the time when I was single. Now that I have a family and hope to be older and wiser, I will never again visit that country. It is just not worth it.

Sad... wrote on Nov 26, 2007 8:10 AM:I'm a first generation American, born and raised by Mexican Immigrants, and they don't even go down there...Everyone and I mean everyone is on the take down there...Sad, but true, however, a simple solution can be done, but will never happen, why don't undercover police officers drive the roads at night on unmarked cars? Have typical cars so these desparate idiots think twice about doing these crimes...Another sad thing, in Mexico, like in California, there is no such thing as a death penalty, if any, CA says they do, but you can live for free for another 20+ years and write childrens books...and cry because it's inhumane to kill you with a sleeping drug...

more warnings wrote on Nov 26, 2007 8:22 AM:these warning should also include Vista, Escondido, Chula Vista. More people were killed in SD County this past weekend than American Killed in war In Iraq.

Mexico has a culture wrote on Nov 26, 2007 8:32 AM:of crime and corruption. Anyone who goes down there is crazy! They export enough of their "culture" to the US.

Awesome wrote on Nov 26, 2007 8:40 AM:I go regularly and have a great time! Viva Mexico!

Concerned-1 wrote on Nov 26, 2007 8:41 AM:Some of the best trips I've ever taken were to Quatro Casas, which is where Pat Weber and his girlfriend were attacked. It's always been a little wild. One time, someone came in our camp and stole food from the ice chests. Other than that, no major problems. I'm afraid all that has changed. A sign of the times. Alas, no more Mex for me.

Euphoric Reality wrote on Nov 26, 2007 8:49 AM:The simple truth is that Mexico is nothing more than a third world banana republic country. The country is ruled by the mafias. Crime, corruption, bribery and extortion are ingrained into the DNA of the Mexican government. The corruption of the despicable Mexican government is what drives the illegal immigration north into the United States. The only policy that the United States should have towards Mexico right now is to hermetically seal the Southern border and then begin exporting arms to the people so that they can overthrow their mafia controlled narcodemocracy. Thomas Jefferson once said 'The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.' This remains as true today as it did 225 years ago and this is just as applicable to the people of Mexico today as it was to the American colonists in the 1700s. Think about it...this is the reality in Mexico.

jay wrote on Nov 26, 2007 8:53 AM:all this aside, keep in mind that american citizens have zero rights in mexico period. and they (mexican officials/crimanals) exploit that to the max. you risk your life and limb any time you cross over.

time to take over wrote on Nov 26, 2007 8:54 AM: I am tired of dealing with Mexico using kids gloves. It is time to take a hard stand with that country, wether it be with immigration, drugs, or crime. Enough is enough, i personally have never been down there when trouble hasnt found someone in our party. Our Government needs to deal with this situation harshly and quickly no more patting the Mexicans on the back because you want there vote. It is a joke, but why should we be surprised, we would rather spend billions in the Middle East.

WKMeyer wrote on Nov 26, 2007 8:55 AM:A friend has a suggestion to solve the problems in the Middle East and Baja: Dig up the first foot of dirt in the Holy Land and transplant it along with the Israelis in Baja. Voila! No more conflict in the ME and Baja would be green, productive, and safe. Simple!

Big Lebowski wrote on Nov 26, 2007 8:59 AM:About 20 years ago me and a buddy got pulled over in Mexicali by 2 cops, and they found our weed. They put my buddy into their patrol car and threatened to take him to jail or worse. Once he bribed them to let us go they were nice enough to sell the weed back to us. That's the last time I have been in that cesspool of a country.

Jim wrote on Nov 26, 2007 9:05 AM:I will take my family to Mexico when they respect our sovereignty.

DEATH WISH wrote on Nov 26, 2007 9:10 AM:You have a death wish if you go to that rotten country. The police are corupt and the people hate us (but love our $$$) yet they want to come here and wreck our country.

Mike wrote on Nov 26, 2007 9:15 AM:Though this is hardly "news", the NCT has done its readers a great service by printing it. Thank you.

Pluto wrote on Nov 26, 2007 9:23 AM:Desperate people commit crimes in order to survive. All 3rd world countries are the same, especially where there are "rich" tourists. In Rio 20 years ago we were told not to wear any jewelry on the beach, and we saw a couple stalked and robbed in broad daylight. I've heard it's gotten worse. But here's the real bad news: As the U.S. economy goes down the tubes we are seeing and will see more and more of this behavior on this side of the border.

to awesome wrote on Nov 26, 2007 9:25 AM:then we don't want to hear you cry when you become a victim

Craig wrote on Nov 26, 2007 9:27 AM:These "isolated" incidents are anything but isolated. The fact is that most crimes are never reported. I can't remember the last time I visited Baja without being robbed by the POLICE. Where would I report this crime? To my friends and family, of course. To be honest, I'd rather be robbed by the local cops than the hard-core criminals.

bob s. wrote on Nov 26, 2007 9:29 AM:I just recently sold my house in San Quintin Baja Norte in May of 2007. The individual who bought it Rafeal Orendain is selling lots in the area called Bahia El Morro. He has not paid me yet even though he has resold what was my house. It took my neighbor 12 years to get his papers to officially own his house. Not to mention I was shot by a drug raged lunatic high on meth then had my dog stolen a week later. Anybody interested in buying or selling property in this region beware!!

To Annie C. wrote on Nov 26, 2007 9:37 AM:Annie C. wrote on Nov 26, 2007 6:34 AM: Annie I am afraid for your family if you continue to go down there. I read the first comment about the car theft in Puerto Nuevo and I also read a story about two months ago and saw it on tv about a man who was kidnapped right from the parking lot in Puerto Nuevo. I believe they were having a family reunion lobster dinner down there and he was kidnapped at gunpoint. He was an older man who I think was from Spain(but I'm not sure). He thankfully was released about a week later! As far as crimes in the US, it is not standard in the US to be pulled over and robbed while you are driving down the road like it is in Mexico. Stay away from Baja until the cartels and criminals are stopped. It isn't worth getting raped and robbed!!

Dennis wrote on Nov 26, 2007 9:38 AM:I will never go to Mexico again. My friend and I were robbed by the "Mexican Police". Driven around for hours on the back of a pick-up truck and forced to prove we didn't have the cash that they sought. Ended up losing the cash we had on us and a cell phone. I work in tourism in S.D. and regularly tell tourist what happened to prevent them from having the same happen to them. I figure that I can't do anything to get back what I lost there, but I can hit them where it hurts them the most. "Monies" No tourist no "monies" so sad!

Concerned-1 wrote on Nov 26, 2007 9:52 AM:What happened to my post? Just because I mentioned the surf spot where this happened? Whatever. I used to love going down, and things have always been a little edgy. Now, they have apparently really changed for the worse. Too bad, a lot of good Mexicans will suffer for the crimes of their corrupt government.

rALPHIe wrote on Nov 26, 2007 9:52 AM:If they're gonna treat our people this way, then let's keep out ALL THE MEXICANS!! Let 'em ALL know that they are NOT WELCOME here till they clean up their act!

Kyle wrote on Nov 26, 2007 9:54 AM:I have been traleling down there with my father for 13 years, driving and surfing from TJ to Cabo. No major problems besides the occasional flat tire, but the stories make us think twice on where we are going and when we will travel. It's risk vs. gain, its such a beutiful country past ensenada, most people have the perseption that all of baja is like TJ IT'S NOT!!!! I will continue to travel in baja for many more years.

Roy wrote on Nov 26, 2007 10:04 AM:I am a TJ and Rosarito veteran and have been going since the eighties. Be smart and stay out of there now. There are too many gangbangers and criminals in high numbers to feel safe. The place is so radically changed. My last trip was two years ago with my kids and I will not be going back for a long time. I have been hundreds of times and now spend my money somewhere else.

What? wrote on Nov 26, 2007 10:14 AM:There are good reasons that their people are fleeing this thirdworld dump. Why on earth would anyone other than an 18 to 20 year old go there? The 18 to 20's go because they can drink in the bars. The place smells for petes sake! The cops are corrupt. The crooks run the place. Well they can have it.

Skip wrote on Nov 26, 2007 10:39 AM:During my early navy sailor days, I got caught drinking a beer on the bridge to TJ. The two Mexican cops were going to take my buddy and me straight to jail. As I talked to them in broken Spanish and they talked to me in perfect English, they said to me that if I got caught in America that they police would also take me to jail. The moral of this story is that they were right, but in America I could not have bribed two cops with $40.00, who then let us go.

Bob wrote on Nov 26, 2007 10:40 AM:At the risk of seeming to mirror 99% of the other comments, I too used to go to Baja quite frequently in the 70's and 80's. Sure, we got tired of the regular shakedowns from TJ (and Ensenada, and Santo Tomas, and Tecate) policias, but the $20 we lost now and then seemed worth the solitude. Now, with armed robberies and assaults commonplace, I too am boycotting Mexico. It will obviously take more than what El Busho is currently doing to make El Presidente stop worrying about how many bribes he is getting and start focusing on cleaning up his country, starting with his police force. Until then, boycott Mexico!

sLAb wrote on Nov 26, 2007 10:44 AM:This won't fly at all. Suspend ALL foreign aid to Mexico immediately!

Copy this article wrote on Nov 26, 2007 10:44 AM:blogs and all, and send it to all the foriegn tourist bureaus.

Nikki H. wrote on Nov 26, 2007 10:46 AM:I would like to respond to a few comments. First, the statement "Nobody should go to Mexico, it is not safe" is a glaring generalization. There are several spots in Mexico that are safe, beautiful and full of culture and tradition (Including the Baja peninsula). Second, "Boycott Mexico! Anyone who goes to that Third World toilet of a country is nuts" exemplifies our poor American attitude. Look back in history, especially during the Porfiriato in Mexico, and it will make sense why the country of Mexico faces so many challenges. The U.S. has definitely played a role in exploiting the people and infrastructure of Mexico. NAFTA? Oye, Even though there are isolated incidents of violence, that does not mean Mexico is a "cesspool." Take a step back, and see the whole problem. Name calling and finger pointing gets us nowhere.

I say wrote on Nov 26, 2007 10:53 AM:we invade mexcio! take over make um pay taxes, give um vons and walmart and road construction, and create jobs to pay the taxes! they all want to come here anyway, and their beaches are better ........see how hugo chavez likes them apples!

Greg in Oceanside wrote on Nov 26, 2007 10:55 AM:Who needs a so-called 'neighbor' like this (Mexico)? Like most people who have lived a long time here in San Diego, I have been to Mexico on a few occasions over the years. While I had a relatively safe time, I've also had a few problems, none of which was my fault. Years ago, I too was stopped by cops for no apparent reason other than to harass and extort money from me. What can you expect from a country where cops are so corrupt that the Mexican government had to come in and take guns away from police officers like they did in TJ a few months ago? As for the people who have been going to Mexico for years and will continue to do so; go ahead, you are certainly free to gamble with your safety and security all you want. But remember this, it's only a matter of time before you too are a victim and see what everyone else is talking about. Not only are travelers at risk of having their vehicles and all their possessions stolen on lonely stretches of highway, but they're at risk of being kidnapped, raped, and killed. And, lots of automobiles stolen here in the US end up in Mexico. ... It's time for US citizens to hit them back by not going to Mexico. When Mexicans figure out that we're on to their game, and tourism dries up and businesses go under, maybe they'll get the picture. By then it'll be too late. Mexico is a land of crime and corruption, and there's no end in sight.

mike wrote on Nov 26, 2007 10:59 AM: lets all keep our money here and see what happens

Sad wrote on Nov 26, 2007 11:00 AM:I am part of a very close off-road world. I have very many friends & family that have been racing Baja for decades. Many of which refuse to race down there for fear of what may happen. We have very close friends that have had trucks, trailers & race cars stolen from the "law enforcement". The corruption is unbelieveable. It's sad that we have such a beautiful place that many love so much, so close to us yet are too terrified of being robbed, assulted or even killed that we can no longer enjoy with our families. It saddens me that what used to be many fond memories that my husband had of Baja are now gone and until things change, our children will never experience what we had loved and experienced as Baja. the corruption must stop down there before anything can change.

To Esteban wrote on Nov 26, 2007 11:00 AM:Your final comment "because you are an American in Mexico you don't have any special rights." is so correct, and one of the many reasons Americans are awaking to stop the atrocities Mexico is imposing on America. Americans have no rights in Mexico, yet Mexicans have more rights in America than our Vets and Senior Citizens.

Sculpin wrote on Nov 26, 2007 11:18 AM:Sounds like most of you advocating a ban on baja travel have never even been there. Others who have had bad experiences probably never left the border towns. However, there are a small group of die hards who recognize that baja is a frontier of sorts, and that nothing can be taken for granted. These hard cores tend to stay off the pavement, and interact with the people who eek out a modest living fishing or farming. A baja saying goes "Bad road, good people; good road, bad people". While these events are horrific, they will pass. The perpetrators will be caught, or will disappear. So for those who say stay away, please do - you will not be missed. For those who've had the misfortune of going through this, you will make up your own mind, and for those who escape to baja to find what can never be found anywhere else, well, we'll be even further below the radar. Feliz Viaje.

To Nikki H. wrote on Nov 26, 2007 11:23 AM:Just Google police killings in Mexico. Besides Police getting killed on a regular basis, Canadian and American tourists have been hit too. Where else but in Mexico can you go to a popular tourist nightspot disco, and have someone throw four severed heads on to the stage. The homicide rates are horrendous in the border towns, and even though they usually do not aim at the tourists, sometimes the tourists get in the way.

LAST YEAR IN TIJUANA wrote on Nov 26, 2007 11:27 AM:Thirty HOMICIDE victims were police officers, including three found decapitated. Such a slaughter of officers. Kidnapping for ransom is nearly non-existent in the whole of the USA. In Tijuana, there were close to 100 reported incidents of it last year. Much of the killing is the product of turf wars among drug cartels. Tijuana police are also part of the problem. SOURCE : USA Today

Don't be stupid wrote on Nov 26, 2007 11:28 AM:I haven't been to Mexico since the Mexican Police robbed my son, cousin, nephew and myself in the middle of the day in Cabo. That was enough for us. We are getting alot of these thieves coming across our borders. Our borders must be secured and our immigration laws enforced with NO amnesty. I for one do not want a North American Union with Canada and Mexico. If you do not know about the North American Union google it. Americans need to wake up and fight for our country at home. Be careful who you vote for. Democrats are all for Amnesty and some Republicans. It's time to look out for the citizens in this country and stop big business and the leaders that are beholden to big business.

Don't be stupid wrote on Nov 26, 2007 11:28 AM:I haven't been to Mexico since the Mexican Police robbed my son, cousin, nephew and myself in the middle of the day in Cabo. That was enough for us. We are getting alot of these thieves coming across our borders. Our borders must be secured and our immigration laws enforced with NO amnesty. I for one do not want a North American Union with Canada and Mexico. If you do not know about the North American Union google it. Americans need to wake up and fight for our country at home. Be careful who you vote for. Democrats are all for Amnesty and so are some Republicans. It's time to look out for the citizens in this country and stop big business and the leaders that are beholden to big business.

Your nuts wrote on Nov 26, 2007 11:38 AM:to go there I last went there 15 years ago and was roobed . I had been extorted money on prevoius occassions. This 4th world country will alwyas be a terrible place. The real nuts are the ones who buy there. It's just na matter of time until they get hurt.

robert wrote on Nov 26, 2007 11:46 AM:where is my post nct what did i say something wrong about mexico everyone knows how corrupt mexico is the police the mayor the president everyone that place stinks and ill never go there again never

OSCAR wrote on Nov 26, 2007 11:46 AM:I HAVE BEEN TO ENSENADA SINCE 2003 ABOUT 30-50 TIMES I DO A LOT OF HUNTING THERE HAVE NEVER HAD ANYPROBLEMS WITH LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT OFICIALS NO CORRUPT COPS NOTHING IN THAT NATURE. AND MIND YOU THAT I CARRY GUNS INTO MEXICO AND OUT. IGET PULLED OVER BY PFP OFFICERS ARMY OFFICERS AND AFI OFFICIALS AND HAVE NOT HAD ANYPROBLEMS. THE POEPLE IN ENSENADA ARE REALLY FRIENDLY I EVEN BOUGHT A SMALL 2 BEDROOM HOUSE DOWN THERE TO GO. A WORD OF ADVISE TO ALL OF YOU IF YOU DONT WANT ANY TROUBLE IN MEXIOC DONT DO ANY STUPID THINGS LIKE DRINK AND PEE IN PUBLIC BE A SMART ASS WITH OFFICIALS AND JUST COOPERATE WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICIALS. I HAVE BEEN PULLED OVER 2 OR 3 TIMES FOR SPEEDING AND YES IT WAS MY FAULT I WAS SPEEDING GAVE THE COPS 20 DLLS TO AVOID THE HASSLE OF GOING TO POLICE STATION. OTHER THAN THAT I WOULD RECOMMEND MEXICO TO EVERYONE

So Cal Native wrote on Nov 26, 2007 11:52 AM:I have been going to Mex for over 30 years and have driven to almost 85% of all surf spots including Quatro Casas. Their is actually a Hostile there owned by an American who is married to a local Mexican. I can't believe Weber was camping there on the bluff with the Hostile right there next to all the of the boats. Anyway, my friends consider me as a Baja Guru because of all the trips I have taken. I too have really re-considered about traveling to Baja with my family. This is happening all over northerin Baja and it is real. I haven't seen it this dangerous for over 20 years now with the stepped up level crime that is occuring. I agree with Rick, that my son will never experience what I was able to experience with all the surf trips. If I was armed, I would definitely return.

Harry wrote on Nov 26, 2007 11:59 AM:Wow, the ranting is amazing. Typical responses by ignorant and arrogant Americans who think our country and culture is superior to everywhere else, and foreigners are feared and dehumanized. Must all be FOX 'news' viewers. Mexicans come here because American employers need and want them for their cheap labor; and drugs come because there is a HUGE market. Fix the problems here and away go the immigration and drug problem. We kill far more people by invading and occupying foreign countries and dropping bombs and killing civilians. If it's dangerous down there, don't go. It's not there to be our playground. American xenophobia is rampant.

TJ Safe? wrote on Nov 26, 2007 11:59 AM:I had not gone to TJ in over 10 years when one evening a friend from the DC area was visiting and one of the things on his list was "Get t-shirts from Hard Rock", and asked me about getting there. So we take the trolley, get off, walk across the bridge and through the spinning gate of no return... go straight to the Hard Rock, which we spotted from the aerial view. When it's time to leave- walking back I hear someone calling my name, and I'm like, "huh?", must be a fluke, keep going. The person is more insistent, and the general knowledge of not wanting to get in any trouble where cops are needed in Mexico, is on my mind. They make up 'laws' on the spot. I keep heading for a more open area to confront the issue and make it most of the way back to the river crossing, when the confrontation happens. It was settled with words in the midst of many onlookers and that was that, but the thought of jumping into the back end of an open pickup truck to get a few blocks away did cross my mind, but I didn't want to just ditch the guy that was with me and leave him to be the slack taker, either. We spent a couple hours in the McDonalds on the U.S. side after clearing the immigration. My absolute biggest fear, having ID stolen. While the US border station is actually well onto US soil, you're still screwed until you get well inside the building.

Don't Go!!!! wrote on Nov 26, 2007 12:04 PM:Here we go again. USA vs. Mexico... On Quince St. in Escondido over 300 illegal immigrants swarm the roads and parking lots of Carl's Jr. and Starbucks. You can pick up a Caramel Frappuccino and while you wait, you can hire some illegals to mow your lawn... The Minutemen came by and had a guy arrested, but he was on the same street again the next day drunk, verbally harassing women as they drove by, and peeing on the sidewalk. We don't even have to go to BAJA to get robbed. Illegal Immigrants are robbing us and raping us right here in the USA.... It may be safer to go to BAJA as crime rates in North County are approaching record levels. In other words, why would you go to BAJA for beautiful beaches. How about Del Mar, Encinitas, Carlsbad, or even NORTHERN CALIFORNIA.

TO OSCAR wrote on Nov 26, 2007 12:09 PM:YOUR POST MADE SENSE UNTIL YOU SAID THE PART OF BRIBING THE COPS WITH $20. LOL , I'LL BET THAT YOU WOULD BRIBE THE COPS HERE IF YOU COULD. JUST GO WITH THE FLOW. I am soryy but there is no way you can rationalize corruption. The average traveler may not be so smooth as you. Or better yet just plain LUCKY !

esteban wrote on Nov 26, 2007 12:13 PM:I didn't write the post at 7:50 AM...I disagree with the imposter esteban that cops up here are just as corrupt. But I love Mex. Last time I was there I saw Anti USA graffiti in Ensenada...not just "F Bush" stuff, but things like "death to Americans...kill all americans...etc". That stuff scares me down there. It's a shame, because I love the Mexican people. ...

Nothing New wrote on Nov 26, 2007 12:48 PM:I've lived my whole life here in the US and have heard robbery stories, especially of the police,for years. It's simply a corrupt, disgusting country. I've had relatives come to visit who want to go into Mexico. And I say "Why?". It's filthy, the government is not under control, nor do they want to run a country they could be proud of. What a waste!

PURE HYSTERIA wrote on Nov 26, 2007 1:10 PM:Mexico is a great place to visit, with bargains galore and very friendly people. Just remember that sooner than later Mexico will be part of the North American Union, which will include the USA and Canada. Then we will all be just one big happy family!! Hey, we have crime and muggings here too! Stop the racism.

Not friendly wrote on Nov 26, 2007 1:18 PM:So with all the Mexicans driving and living in the US, you say 'don't go to Mexico' uh, they are coming to us! So Cal will be just as bad in the near future. Wake Up and close the Borders!

Concerned-1 wrote on Nov 26, 2007 1:25 PM:So Cal Native. I haven't been to Quatros for several years but we always used to camp on the cliff. I seriously looked in to getting one of the boat houses. Sort of glad I didn't now. Great surf spot though, and the fresh fish and lobsters from the fishermen were great. Too bad.

Concerned-1 wrote on Nov 26, 2007 1:27 PM:Classic comment day. I've been reading about people getting robed, and roobed down in Mex. I don't think I've experienced either.

Oh No! wrote on Nov 26, 2007 1:54 PM:My son is taking Spanish in High School and regularly wants to go to Mexico to try it out. I took him and the rest of the family down to PN for lobster and the lobster was terrible, cost more than would cost in CA. Sad thing is that I didn't know about the dangers. We left PN after nightfall and it was only me, my younger son and three women. I was a mark waiting to get hit. The only way I'll go back is with a tour group.

Quote From Harry wrote on Nov 26, 2007 2:07 PM:"If it's dangerous down there, don't go. It's not there to be our playground."

An American Tourist in Mexico wrote on Nov 26, 2007 2:15 PM:Don Kraft was pulling onto the Tijuana-Ensenada toll road August 24, 1999 when he collided with a car driven by a Mexican government official in charge of human rights and citizen protection in Baja California. Don Kraft, 44, suffered a broken neck but had apparently been making a recovery. Mexican officials would not allow Kraft to leave mexico to receive proper medical attention, until his family had posted a bond. The result was an 18-hour delay before he crossed the border. But Kraft passed away Monday morning, while his family was frantically trying to cut through the red tape on getting him out of the country. Apparently the Mexican Government official was more worried about the damage done to his car.

PURE HYSTERIA 2 wrote on Nov 26, 2007 2:18 PM:To form an American Union similar to what they have in Europe, the countries must be faily equal. We may have similiarities in common with Canada, with their people and form of government, and standard of living, but give me a break, we do not have anything in common with Mexico.

Bowman wrote on Nov 26, 2007 2:21 PM:Since Mexico is violating the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo all over the place, I think the US should re-possess Baja California, make it a trust territory, deport all the Latino illegal aliens in the US there, and make John McCain the Gobernador. He can get rid of the corrupt cops, Americans would be able to safely vacation and own houses and businesses there creating jobs and "a better life" for the illegals. Since it would be a only trust territory the illegals nor their children would be US Citizens, they would be Mexican citizens.

david wrote on Nov 26, 2007 2:34 PM:I have been all over the world from Africa/SE Asia etc thrid world countries and beyond and I have to say that TJ is the worst place I have been to. Its unsafe, dirty, and all right are gone once you pass through those cattle gates. I found Ho Chi Ming, Vietnam 100 times more safe than MX

Jean wrote on Nov 26, 2007 3:06 PM:I am an insurance agent and my clients 18 yr old son and his buddy were turned on to a surf spot by a friend in SD so they went down to a beach in Baja.They were sleeping and were awoken by robbers with guns.The boys were pistol whipped and robbed of truck and evrything they owned.They filed a claim and got covered for everything.Thank god they bought the Mexican insurance.The papers were in the truck and they had to try to find the place by memory after a friend in SD came down and got them.Bad experience for all!!

Beijing wrote on Nov 26, 2007 3:14 PM:I just retured fron China and never felt unsafe unlike TJ where I'll never go again. The stuff is crap there anyway.You pay more for beer there than here.

Baja wrote on Nov 26, 2007 3:16 PM:We should have taken Baja 100 years ago when we could have. Build a bigger fence-wall too.

Gary wrote on Nov 26, 2007 3:19 PM:I am a legally admitted alien from Great Britain, with green card and SS number. Dont confuse illegal aliens with those who want to contribute to society. Let hardworking, intelligent mexicans get green cards and start paying taxes for all those illegals who get free medical.

To An American Tourist in Mexico wrote on Nov 26, 2007 3:21 PM:This is a very sad story. We have to post bond to get a citizen out of their country so he can get medical attention yet we provide very extensive treatment to the illegals burned while illegally crossing into our country. This man was held for ransom while the stabile burn victims are not transported back to Mexico for further treatment. Are we just stupid, or what?

Concerned-1 wrote on Nov 26, 2007 3:30 PM:Actually, Baja used to be our playground and many Mexicans there made a living from our dollars. It's called tourism Harry.

MAKESMESICK wrote on Nov 26, 2007 3:46 PM:Anybody who travels to that 3rd world dump, must be looking for trouble in the first place. Intelligent people do not venture South of the Border, regardless of how cheap their Lobster dinner is.

sdman wrote on Nov 26, 2007 3:52 PM:was driving back from ensenada once when a loal car pulled onto the toll road in front of me goin 20 mph. I swerved, hit the center median, ripped a tire and rear bumper off the van. As soon as I pulled over, three locals had already jumped on the road and made off with my bumper. my friend and I put on the spare like a race car pit crew and sped away not wanting to deal with any law enforcement claiming "road damage"...We did stop for tacos in tj before crossing the border..

greenspan was wrong wrote on Nov 26, 2007 4:05 PM:Just wait a few months. We are going into an economic recession unlike any we have experienced since the Great Depression. The world economic system is cracking; just read the Wall Street Journal. The credit markets are freezing, major banks in Europe and the U.S. won't disclose their losses and are feared to be on the brink of bankruptcy. The manager of a hedge fund that shorted the mortgage market and earned billions of dollars doing so is advising investors to invest in gold and other metals. Job losses will be massive. Violence will escalate as foreclosed Americans compete with illegals for leaf-blower jobs. Remittances by illegals to their relatives in Mexico will dry up. Hunger, riots in L.A. and at the border. It is coming unfortunately. What is occuring now we were told would not happen. Be prepared.

760 wrote on Nov 26, 2007 4:39 PM:ive only been to baja a few times, and never once have we been harassed by local police, or bandits. i guess we were just lucky. but honestly if you travel a few hundred miles down past tj and ensenada it turns out to be very scenic and pleasent.(bahia de los angeles, very cool place.)Although after reading all of these testimonials about getting robbed, i may think twice about going anymore. what a shame

Andy L. wrote on Nov 26, 2007 5:00 PM:I drove down to Cabo San Lucas about 30 years ago. Everything was fine. No problems.

Laura wrote on Nov 26, 2007 5:09 PM:I am an american citizen and had american insurance at the time a taxi cab hit me from behind injuring my neck. I am in the medical field, speak spanish fluently and asked specifically to be taken to a good hospital....Yeah right!! It was filthy and there were people sleeping on the floor. There was vomit and what looked to be blood on the walls in the X-ray department. As soon as I could get up and walk out I did without letting anyone touch me!! American Citizens have no rights in Mexico....stay in the good USA and appreciate what you have here!

old man wrote on Nov 26, 2007 5:44 PM:i have been going down to baja now for 30 years lured by the promise of incredible fishing. i have experienced the beauty of the sea of cortez, caught blue marlin from a skiff, casted into acres of boiling yellowtail, and watched some of the most gorgeous sunsets ever. last year my brother and i were robbed on the beach by 4 mexicans ... they mocked us while we struggled to escape and by god's grace we made it to a small town before dark. i really believe if they would've attacked us at night, we wouldn't of made it out of there alive. after reading this story and others i will not return....very sad.

A fellow RV'r wrote on Nov 26, 2007 6:18 PM:we know (very petite woman) was brought down in Cabo San Lucas. She hung onto her purse but wasn't able to keep it. During her fall she sustained a broken leg. She had to wait three weeks to get it set. She was given a splint to "tie her over". Do you think that would happen here? Heck no Jose. Of course these coward Mexicans didn't strike a larger person, only a woman of small stature. PIGS. Mexico is a Dump.

Daughter wrote on Nov 26, 2007 6:33 PM:Add me to the never agains. My mother died of a heart attack in Tijuana and we had to pay bribes just to get her body back in 1979. $5,000 but we finally got her. I hate Tijuana. Nothing has changed a bit since then and nothing will. Stay home.

to greenspan wrote on Nov 26, 2007 6:59 PM:lol paranoia runs deep in you. Maybe you should to move to mexico. I'm sure you'd feel more secure. lol Oh wait, you are in mexico.

Karl wrote on Nov 26, 2007 7:13 PM:Don Kraft's was 15k cash. The delay was in his family raising the cash. For those of you who say we have crime on this side of the border, agreed. We do however have a justice system that doesn't approach Mexico's corruption. As for the comments that because me and people like me will not go to Mexico to ba called racist and xenophobes is absolutely ridiculous. Every time the racist card is pulled out for no reason it diminishes the true meaning of the word. Ever heard of chicken little?

Vistan wrote on Nov 26, 2007 8:43 PM:The relating of the misfortunes of those who experienced Mexican society at it's finest hardly sounds like paranoia to me.

To Andy L wrote on Nov 26, 2007 8:53 PM:30 yrs ago was a long time ago. Mexico is a toilet.

Chanel wrote on Nov 26, 2007 9:01 PM:My sister's in-laws were killed in a private plane crash in Guaymas in 1976. Mexico told the family that they had to pay $5,000. each for the bodies to be released. Mexico gave the family 24 hours to do so and if they did not receive the money within that time period, they would bury the parents in to desert and not tell of the location. Anyone who goes there is a certifiable nut job.

Nothing new wrote on Nov 26, 2007 9:16 PM:What is the matter with u people? U act like this is something new! I quit going to Mexi 20 years ago. Anyone in SoCal should know the dangers in Mexi/TJ, Duh. Risk? Ya think?

Jeremy wrote on Nov 26, 2007 9:23 PM:This article is a ploy for you people to stop going to baja. In other words this article is attempting to downsize your desires to spend a weekend or week in Mexico. You're being hypnotized by the media to dissuade you from visiting mexico and spend money in san diego. Mexico ....with drugs and murder isn't anything new ....I got news for you this stuff has been going on for years. Unfortunately americans are blinded by the manipulation of media outlets to dictate your travel itinerary. It's simply a scare tactic to deter you from spending MONEY in mexico. Wake up people, do I need to shake all of you?

SD Surfer wrote on Nov 26, 2007 10:10 PM:A number of the posts here imply that any American who runs into trouble in Mexico "deserved it" one way or the other. To all of you experts out there, I never got drunk, never urinated behind a gas station, never cussed out a cop, never got dressed in public view, and yet I was continually hassled for traffic bribes from the Border through Santo Tomas. We were pulled over on several occasions by Ensenada's Finest, with lecherous comments made by the Mexican police about women in our cars along with implications about what would happen to them if we didn't pay the fine for our imagined infractions. It's not just the "Ugly American" who is a target down there; it's any American. Go ahead, pretend there are no problems in Baja, and I sincerely hope you don't get hurt, but there is overwhelming evidence to the contrary that Baja is not the cool place it was in the 60's, 70's and 80's. Time to cut off all foreign aid to Mexico and boycott that country until (if ever) they clean it up.

Mr. G wrote on Nov 26, 2007 10:19 PM:My best friend and I went to TJ last month for a quick Saturday trip before watching the Chargers decimate our Raiders on Sunday. We were fine until we went to leave, and the TJ police were kind enough to "mug" us on the walk back to the border. They searched us(3 of them armed), made up some law about the penicillin we had bought being illegal and threatened us with prison. We then were given the option to "pay the fine right here". $150 lighter we "ran for the border"!! What an armpit!!!!I'll never return until we(the U.S. Military) have taken it over and it's deemed safe. They .. are screwing themselves.

jesus c. wrote on Nov 27, 2007 2:04 AM:Our son and several friends were rescued by Mexican police officers on a recent surf trip south of Ensenada. The engine in their Honda Civic lost a timing belt and died out in the middle of nowhere, late at night.The officers stopped to check what was going on and ended up loading up all four young college kids,including 3 surf boards and sleeping bags into the police car and with red lights flashing drove them to the beach house we have enjoyed near Playa Dorada for many, many years. They also pushed the Civic to a safer location with their squad car before taking the kids to the house. Calling Mexico a toilet, or a dump, or other childish insults and name calling are certainly not our best Christian values being set forth in the world. Reminds me of recent rants about the French being cowards regarding Iraq , or all Vietnamese labeled as Commie ..., remember? I guess it must make some folks feel better to bad mouth an entire country...if you recall Bin Laden blathering that Americans are all immoral and worthless and evil thats what a lot of this crap sounds like...simplistic cheap shots . The dangers in Mexico are real, criminal activity is found not only there but in our country as well...just as horrible in both countries...there are also millions and millions of decent, honest, hardworking people here and in Mexico as well. Shoot your best shot, you know in your heart I'm right. j.c.

esteban wrote on Nov 27, 2007 5:47 AM:To An American Tourist in Mexico, That’s what happens when you don't properly insure your car before you drive into Mexico. If it was insured than he wouldn't of had any trouble, now would he?

BigJoe wrote on Nov 27, 2007 7:13 AM:I think one quick way to discourage folks from going down south would be to disallow, cancel all mexican insurance. Basically, travel at your own risk, uninsured, and pay the steep penalties when the realities of the conditions in mexico catch up with you. I think enough of that happening to enough people would get the message across that Mexico is not the best tourist destination until it has some form of a revolution down there and get's its stuff together.

To Jeremy wrote on Nov 27, 2007 7:17 AM:No this is not a scare tactic, its is real!

Self Selection wrote on Nov 27, 2007 7:24 AM:This long string of wisdom on Mexico only provides proff of one thing. If you want to go to Mexico then go. If not, then don't go. Those who go know that this decision carries some level of risk and accept this as such. Those who do not go simply choose to play it safe, or percieve it this way.

Gene wrote on Nov 27, 2007 8:06 AM:I have been a frequent traveler to Baja California - in particular the puerto nuevo, la mision and ensenada areas - and points in between. I too have been vicitmized by the corrupt cops there - on several occasions. but i have also actually seen "those vehicles with the flashing strobe-like lites" mounted in the grill of the vehicle. usually a darker colored suv type of vehicle. in fact, one flashed me to pull over one twilight trip back to the states and although i did switch lanes, i did NOT pull over. The difference in the danger in Baja and the danger in the US (as some bloggers have describe) is that the danger in the US is not normally undetaken with the complicity of the cops. In Baja, the cops are corrupt. they will NOT help Americans. I know. I have been victimized too many times. I shall not be returning. Too bad, i have friends down there who i truly care for. The reason El Presidente Bush (i happen to be a real conservative, not a pretend one) the reason the El Presidente is so anti-building a wall and enforcing our border laws is that he knows that Mexic has a seething undercurrent of a revolutionary problem on its hands and by allowing our border to be the pressure escape valve, we assist Mexico is continuing to quell the undercurrent of a socialist revolution in Mexico. The last presidential election in Mexico proves that point explicitly. Next election in Mexico will install a Marxist/Socialist national government there. We need to deport all illegals NOW, build that security wall to keep criminals out NOW and stop pandering to 3rd world countries who continue exporting criminals to our land.

Santiago wrote on Nov 27, 2007 8:25 AM:Look south and you will see your future. Once the Americans stop going to Baja to get robbed, the robbers will come north to commit their crimes.

Karl wrote on Nov 27, 2007 10:01 AM:What kind of dream world do you live in JC. "The dangers in Mexico are real, criminal activity is found not only there but in our country as well...just as horrible in both countries...". Although I'm sure police officers in this country shake down traffic stops it is not rampant like in Mexico. Police officers getting murdered frequently is another example. Compare our justice systems to theirs. Get a clue.

esteban wrote on Nov 27, 2007 1:30 PM:It’s funny how some people don’t understand how they are getting taken advantage of while breaking the law. Bringing back prescription drugs with no prescription or smoking weed is against the law in either country. If you don’t want to pay the bribe than let them take you to the police station and the judge will deal with you and you can pay the fine instead of the bribe. Either way it’s going to cost you.

Greedy wrote on Nov 27, 2007 1:43 PM:That's what drives this country called Mexico. Greed. Now that our jails and prisons are deporting these border jumpers, the same ones whom the Mexican Mafia recruits from inside the walls of our prisons, Baja now has a serious gang problem,just like L.A. Better there than here, if they will just keep them there. But remember,they are stealing from you to pay the coyote to get back here.

To Esteban wrote on Nov 27, 2007 1:47 PM:Do you work for the Mexican travel ministries? To be robbed at gunpoint and raped is just wrong. Seems wrong is not in your missive,just like the Mexican government.

esteban wrote on Nov 27, 2007 1:55 PM:The esteban post at 1:30 is from the fake esteban...not me.

Fanny wrote on Nov 27, 2007 7:57 PM:My husband & his buddy and 2 boys 9 & 12 were stopped 10am Sunday by masked army guys, no one could communicate and finally they sent my husband on his way.....I think they had a lucky escape!!!

Nick wrote on Nov 27, 2007 9:12 PM:SO NOW how does everyone feel about Illegal Immigration, enforcing our borders and Amnesty?

Mr. G wrote on Nov 27, 2007 9:22 PM:To the "fake estaban"...I never said I was bringing back prescription drugs without a prescription. US customs had no problem with my meds. I bought the antibiotics legally at a lower price and I wasn't "smoking weed"!... Criminals standing up for criminals, that's TJ.

David wrote on Nov 28, 2007 7:50 AM:The amount of the posts left on this Blog says it all. STAY OUT OF MEXICO! If the drugged up gangsters don't get you, the corrupt cops will. Let's keep our American dollars out of that country and go to safer places like Costa Rica or Hawaii.

Cali Surfer wrote on Nov 28, 2007 7:57 AM:You can defend Mexico all you want. And yes we shouldn't lump every experience together as being a bad one. But I do not know one single surfer who doesn't know somoene who has been victimized by a cop or someone in Mexico. I can't say the same thing about the US. I personally have had the 40 dollar shake down, and my best friend had his truck robbed of everything. Yes I know many people here who have their vehivles stolen, but a great percentage of my friends that have been to Mexico have experienced some amount of crime.

Customs Officer wrote on Nov 28, 2007 9:24 AM:I have worked at the border for many years and have encountered hundreds of people who have been shot, stabbed, mugged, had their cars stolen, their wallets stolen, all their money taken etc etc. It appears that year by year it is getting worse down there. I have been telling people for years to stay away from our friendly neighbors to the south.

Warnings wrote on Nov 28, 2007 11:57 AM:The US State Dept on International Travel has issued a warning on their public amnnouncements page concerning travel to Mexico. I would list the link but this forum won't allow it. This was updated on 10/24/2007.After talking directly to a correspondent from their contact number, this should turn out to be a flat out no travel bulletin very soon.

Roberto1 wrote on Nov 28, 2007 12:59 PM:I find the facts disappointing....but! annexing Mexico into the USA takes on even more importance as a reult of this. Of course we could send assistance down there but we already send assistance to other more important countries in the world.

True American wrote on Nov 28, 2007 4:19 PM:Here's one for you. One of my friends went to TJ with a group and got separated from the group. He was kidnapped and forced to drive a car loaded with drugs up through the border. As soon as he hit the checkpoint he screamed for help. They took him into the inspection area, questioned him for a few minutes, and then let him go. They told him it happens all the time, it just doesn't get reported in the newspaper. Travel to Mexico at your own risk and don't ask for help if you've been warned not to go there by our state department.

Relpy to Roberto1 wrote on Nov 28, 2007 5:16 PM:It seems that Mexico DOES NOT WANT OUR HELP. You see, if our DEA and intellegence were allowed to operate in Mexico,Americans would find out that 92% of political and civil employes are just down-right evil and on the take,and that does include the $40 roust of Americans, which I've heard has risen to a couple hundred $$$$.

mary wrote on Nov 28, 2007 8:03 PM:My comments weren't published. I wonder why. It concerned false imprisonment and rape. Will this get published?

Roberto1 wrote on Nov 29, 2007 10:02 AM:Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, Korea etc. didn't want our help...in fact when the US took about 30 percent of Mexico they too, didn't want our help along with the Native Americans and the list goes on. All this hype will not serve the xenophobes either. The best solution IMHO is to pay more attention to our neighbours and improve the working and living conditions for all...Its really in our own best interest. This seems to be the only factor that motivates the many "I" people we have on da blog.

Wife wrote on Nov 29, 2007 8:12 PM:Every time my beloved husband travels to Mexico to surf, I pray that he will make it home. You see, we have a 5 year old and I want him to have a father. I cannot express the joy I feel when my husband crosses the border to come home!

Nick wrote on Nov 29, 2007 9:38 PM:NO Roberto, it's not our job to fix Mexico. How about the 20 MILLION ILLEGALS here head back to Mexico and fix it themselves. Now there's an idea.

WKMeyer wrote on Nov 30, 2007 9:45 AM:Geez, another failure of the public education system... IIRC the US was asked to help defend Korea & Nam. Imagine what South Korea would be like today if the US hadn't intervened. Too bad we bailed on Vietnam... and if the US didn't BUY(?) (history majors help me out here) Texas and California, they might be just like Baja. Maybe we should buy Baja and make it a protectorate. Mexico certainly doesn't seem to give a damn about it. Oh yeah, I forgot: it's our fault that Iraq invaded Kuwait and the Taliban hijacked Afganistan. Xenophobic indeed!

Hey WK wrote on Nov 30, 2007 1:04 PM:Well, we did arm the Taliban against the russians, so in some respect we did let the genie out of the bottle on that one. Not one of our best moves. We had to bail on VN becuase we didn't want to own it. The infrastructure and political/social institutions in the south were so corrupt that we would have been there forever, and the resistance wouldn't have gone away. It was a cost/benefit analysis performed on the heels of very poor planning. Just like Iraq. As for CA being like baja, no way. It was only a matter ot time before the US claimed sovereignty over both coasts. In fact, we did invade baja. The marines landed in Loreto, I believe under TRoosevelt, but found the indigenous population so hostile, and the land so stark, that we let them have it back. We had our chance!

Roberto1 wrote on Nov 30, 2007 1:25 PM:Dear Meyer, Not only do these comments make you sound like a weenie...but Iraq is about awl boy, Vietnam was about big business, Mexico was about land theft....xenophobics you are.

WKMeyer wrote on Nov 30, 2007 6:46 PM:Must have struck a nerve or two... True, we did arm the Mujahadeen vs. the Russians -- don't know if they are one in the same as the Taliban or not. In any respect US entry into Afganistan was in response to the harboring of OBL and terrorism and not an unprovoked attempt to occupy. No argument re: VN but the US was asked to intervene, misguided as it may have been. IMO it had more to do with thwarting the "red menace" than big business. Only history will judge whether out nation building attempt in Iraq was worthwhile -- the ME culture may require benevolent dictators as opposed to democracies. It seems a bit too simplistic to say that it's only about oil; Iran is the real danger that needs to be kept in check. You're right about Baja -- even one of Mexico's former ambassadors to the US advocated US annexation. It's never too late for hegemony...

Skip wrote on Nov 30, 2007 8:00 PM:I get a laugh every time I read these comments. Then I realize that there are so many Open Borders activists and I get serious again. It is past time to SECURE OUR BORDERS !

Airborne wrote on Dec 1, 2007 4:51 AM:These goofy Americans are stupid..... you get what you pay for. If you know bad things are going on in Mexico... why would you even want to risk it.

From the Los Angeles (Mexico) Times Newspaper wrote on Dec 1, 2007 4:54 AM:This same story is being run today on December 1, 2007. The final sentence is "I'm going to miss those people." . All I can say is wow! They get it!

Roberto1 wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:16 AM:Property values in Baja along the ocean are very high...if they drop like everyone else's, someone will make a lot of money on this issue being the flavour of the day....as for annexation, the surfing is great, time time to annex the rest of Mexico or let them have a form of government that works like Cuba.

Maria wrote on Dec 1, 2007 2:41 PM:For those of you who think that these posts are made by hysterical "white" people, think again. There's been a lot of anger as of late over the politics that have been playing out. They were raised to believe that their land was stolen from them. Dreams of vengence nursed through the generations, we only hear a small fraction of what actually happens. My American looking daughter and her friends were assaulted and robbed at gun point by cops. In order to file a report a lot of personal information has to be given out, to the very people who robbed them. So of course no one did. I'm of Mexican descent so people acually talk to me about a lot of things that NEVER make it into any newspapers. BE CAREFUL, PLEASE.

SIGH wrote on Dec 1, 2007 5:43 PM:I travel there ALL the time with my kids. You have to use your brain! Only use toll roads, stick to the resort areas...like ANYWHERE you travel. The dumb-butts that get into these situations are usually too cheap to pay for tolls, camp in secluded areas, get drunk, don't speak the language, and might as well have a huge bullseye on their chest. If it is true...you wonder why these poor people are trying to make a better life in our country...but I guess immigration ended when all the european aliens came...but that was okay because they blend in.

Roberto1 wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:28 PM:Excellent comment by SIGH...I own a home down in Baja and probably should keep my mouth quiet about it. As long as the xenophobes keep blowing their trumpets, I can continue enjoying beautiful summers and then head to Maui in the winter. Although I love China, I can't wait to retire and spend even more time down in Baja!

Cat wrote on Dec 1, 2007 9:56 PM:Wow. I am shocked by all the generalizations here. First of all, Mexicans are not all bad people, just like there are good and bad Americans. You cannot generalize an entire culture by a small portion of the population that might deal drugs or do whatever. Secondly, Mexico is still a great place to travel. Sure, there are risks involved when going there, but everytime you get in your car you risk getting into an accident. People still do it anyways and text at the wheel like morons. Thirdly, if you go to Mexico, learn some spanish first. Don't be an ignorant American, because thats when you'll get taken advantage of. I've lived in Brazil and traveled to Costa Rica, Argentina, and all throughout Europe. Vendors have tried to rob me through their little schemes, and I shut them down. Most of them are struggling to support their families and could use some money, but if you let them know that you're aware of whats going on and be friendy with them, they will usually treat you quite well. Latin American people are some of the most friendly and helpful I have met in my travels, but you have to remember not to trust everyone, because there are bad people wherever you go.

Gary wrote on Dec 2, 2007 8:52 AM:Even the people here who try to defend Mexico and its wonderful people are adding comments to their statement that you had better not do this or that, or go here or there, or only stay where the tourists go, or only stay where it is well lighted, etc., are just re-enforcing on how unsafe Mexico really is. The generalizations of good and bad people do not apply here. LET'S FACE IT, WHEN YOU TRAVEL TO MEXICO, YOUR FATE DEPENDS ON LUCK.

Skip wrote on Dec 2, 2007 12:41 PM:This same story is being run in today's Riverside Press Enterprise. It seems the whole world now knows how unsafe travel is in mexico for Americans.

Sophisticated robbers target Baja tourists wrote on Dec 2, 2007 12:47 PM:http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2007/12/02/news/state/17_47_5412_1_07.txt

Bren wrote on Dec 2, 2007 12:56 PM:A lot of them HATE us now!! I definitely would not go anywhere near those areas that they are talking about. When I lived in Arizona, we used to drive to Rocky Point in Mexico-----I would NOT even go there. The area itself is pretty safe once you get there, the people really friendly and helpful---a lot of Americans there. But I would not be out at night and stray away from the main town area. However, once you cross the border, you are driving about 45 minutes on a pretty desolate road. A road that it would be VERY easy to be held up and robbed----especially driving at night. I wonder if attacks against US citizens have increased in this area as well??? You never know----we all know that our government-----and the Mexican government DEFINITELY----would not want this info to get out if it were happening.

DON'T FORGET ....... wrote on Dec 2, 2007 1:18 PM:Baja is Mexico !

Roberto1 wrote on Dec 2, 2007 1:44 PM:Its really simple, If you don't like Baja California, then go back to San Diego! If you go to Mexico and act like a lunatic drinking in public by the border etc...stay out of the US and Mexico. Of course betters still, move further away from the border and Skip it all.

Skip wrote on Dec 2, 2007 2:52 PM:LOL

John G. wrote on Dec 2, 2007 2:59 PM:I've been going down to Baja for over fifty years and I've seen the place change 1000%. Baja has gone from a nice warm, friendly place to fish and camp, to a money grubbing, rude and sometimes downright dangerous trip risk. I don't want to add the worry of someone taking my 4X4 and boat at gunpoint in another country to a vaction. What a shame! What a great place The Baja used to be. Time marches on I guess. JG

John G. wrote on Dec 2, 2007 4:03 PM:One last thing: I think anyone who can pass a firearms test should be allowed to carry firearms for self protection while camping in remote areas of Baja. We do in Calif. and other states. Otherwise, who's going to be out there to protect you and your loved ones? No one is going to put a gun to my head. (Vietnam combat Vet) JG

Estaban... wrote on Dec 2, 2007 4:11 PM:If anyone still has a question about who's really running the show down in Baja, then do a web search of "Bajasafari 1000 race helicopter crash drug kingpin." The stories would be truly unbelievable if I hadn't read them for myself and seen the videos. I can't understand why the San Diego media hasn't been all over this story?

Tony R. wrote on Dec 3, 2007 12:12 PM:Not all 3rd world country is ridden with crime. I used to think that a poor country always will have a lot of crime, but gotten wiser through the years. The sad truth is that Mexico is full of crime not because it is poor but is because of their culture. There are many poor Asian countries that have a just fraction of the crime rate that Mexico has. You will not hear many of these stories traveling to Thailand and it is technically a poorer country than Mexico!

World Traveler wrote on Dec 3, 2007 1:07 PM:I recently took a group of students to Paris and we were "warned" about the subway and going to the Sacre Coure.That did not deter us, rather we were cautious. You don't see people stopping al travel to France. ANY travel requires vigilance. Going down the wrong street in the US could be scary. Try being black and driving through the south!!!

Earth to World Traveler... wrote on Dec 3, 2007 6:38 PM:W.T. are the "Bad Guys" in Gay-Paris your run of the mill "Bad Guys" or are the large majority of them "Bad Cops" like down in Alegre-Tijuana? Hmmm, I think we've all learned a good lesson, regarding one of the major differances between a civilized nation and third world chaos... Thanks World Traveler!

robert wrote on Dec 3, 2007 10:45 PM:I personally knew six people that were murdered within a half year period down there. Yet there are American owned businesses in Baja, charging gringo rates for food, and paying cooks ten dollars a day. Where the hell can you live on that, besides Viet Nam. Mexicans can't afford to hire properly trained police if they're only making $10 a day on the average. What goes around comes around. Think about that the next time you're in Baja and shell out $100 for a meal and drinks for two in a foreign owned restaurant, that takes cash only so they don't have to declare the income.

Steve wrote on Dec 4, 2007 6:58 AM:This article proves once more, that 'Non-Mexicans' traveling south of the border, are in constant danger. I've always told my wife and kids, don't worry, we'll be fine... Well, you don't have to hit me in the face with that skunk again, I finally get it! We're not going back to Baja again, period. On a related story, y'all should do a web search for 'Baja 1000 race, helicopter crash, drug king-pin dies.' It's the most unbelievable story I've read in a long time. It also proves who's really 'in-charge' of Baja... BTW, The NCTimes should do an article on the helicopter crash and the 'made for the movies' scenario that followed.

In Todays' Baja News wrote on Dec 4, 2007 2:37 PM:The Attorney General of Baja announced today that a group of heavily armed gunmen broke into the home of Police Official Jose Juan Soriano Pereira early this morning and shot him to death. It was apparently retaliation for the discovery of a border tunnel and a large cache of drugs. r/Skip

Alex wrote on Dec 4, 2007 2:40 PM:Assasination of police, mayers and journalists...beheadings, rape and murder to those who oppose... Iraq? No, Mexico. BTW, I thought guns were illegal in Mexico. Hmm.

Alex wrote on Dec 4, 2007 2:47 PM:Who in their right mind would vacation there? The justice chief gets gunned down by 20 of his own police, 6 "armed assaults" (read:terrorists) gun down tourists and incidents of "para-military style criminals" (again read: terrorists). Let's call a spade a spade here. Throw in some corruption, cops planting drugs in your car, a Mexican jail, beggars at every turn and lovely sanitary conditions and you have a real nice vacation. It is what it is.

How about the killing of the police official wrote on Dec 4, 2007 3:43 PM:A Baja police official (earlier reported as the Tecate Police chief) was shot 50 times in his bed last night because he looked into the tunnel. Great! Just what we want going on 30 miles to the south. That border needs to be slammed shut to "all" immigrants until Calderon steps up and takes care of his problems. We can't let them try to dictate policies to us when his country is decaying from the core!! Mr. Calderon fix your country for the sake of your citizens!!

Stephen... wrote on Dec 4, 2007 4:36 PM:All I can say, is thank heaven that I'm unable to make a quick decision! My wife and I were in the process of deciding to buy either a vacation home in Bajamar, or a condo in the new Trump development...Well, thanks to the recent kidnappings, rapes, robberies and murders, we've NOW made our up minds...We're going to buying a cabin up in the much more beautiful & safe Rockies! We must all DEDMAND that the next President of the USofA, build a SOLID wall 50 feet above ground and 50 feet below, all the way from the Pacific Ocean, to the tip of Texas!

Syl wrote on Dec 5, 2007 11:47 AM:If over 30 Baja policemen were assonated last year, and the average policeman is thought of as being corrupt, then who is really going to protect the tourists. Could you imagine what is would be like if 30 policemen were assonated in Southern California. Not only do they get shot, but also some of them get beheaded. Just this week one of their Chief of Police was shot over 50 times while his family was in the same house.

John G. in Murrieta wrote on Dec 5, 2007 6:23 PM:Like I said before, when I camp, even here in the U.S., I carry a hand gun. and, I'm not some gun nut either! I'm 59 yrs old and a combat Veteran who reads the newspapers every day. There are crazies running around everywhere and I'm not going to sleep in a tent or even a motor home without protection for myself and my loved ones. You may think I'm loony, but you wont read about me getting killed in my sleep on a camping trip. I think we should be allowed to carry in Baja too. When one of those banditos comes up to a camp, they wont know if we're armed or not. That should slow this crap down a little.

John G. in Murrieta wrote on Dec 5, 2007 6:30 PM:I just read: "Nine Shot dead in Omaha mall." I rest my case. If just one person had a permit and was armed, it might have only been 2. The first one and then the shooter. Sorry folks, this is what it's coming to all over the world.

Roberto1 wrote on Dec 7, 2007 2:50 AM:I agree with John, allowing weapons would decrease the crime rate. It has to be like China where no one owns weapons or like the US where everyone owns weapons...you wanna go camping?

Geraldo wrote on Dec 12, 2007 11:01 PM:For what it's worth: In Mexico, police have to purchase their own uniforms. In USA, police are bargaining to be paid for the extra time it takes to put on their uniforms. Go figure...

Reid01 wrote on Dec 15, 2007 8:47 PM:forget this! you guys are dumb. Just dont be stupid and youll be fine. VIVA MEXICO!!!!!

Scooter wrote on Dec 16, 2007 3:12 PM:I've been robbed by Mexican police, part of which was my fault for getting drunk and belligerent, in TJ and saved from a probable beating by Mex pol in Nogales. Basically what it comes down to is being aware of your surroundings and take precautions which you should do anytime you travel, even in the U.S. Being a potential victim isn't going to scare me into not travelling to a nice place for a good time.

Marty wrote on Dec 17, 2007 2:26 PM:I have been traveling to baja since the 60's with my family and never had an bad incident. The last time I traveled to Ensenada was last summer, by myself, which I frequently do, I am a middle aged latina woman. I follow the law of the land to a "t" and respect it. I plan to travel after Xmas and I know I will have a safe trip.

Cardiff gal wrote on Dec 23, 2007 2:16 AM:I know Pat Weber and he travels the world surfing, and has done so for decades, also he was in his motor home when they forced their way in. It is so sad that this has happened, I used to go to Mexico but when good friends of mine 20 years ago got robbed and beat up so bad one of them lost an eye, I stopped going. I suggest if you go, I dont want to say I told you so.

Robert wrote on Jan 3, 2008 6:33 PM:I have lived in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca and actually bought a home here. Biggest mistake in my life. Kidnapped by police my best client murdered by the same kidnappers/extorsionists/ministerio publico police. My friends are routinly extorted for money and they PREY ON OLD PEOPLE as well...this is the FEDERAL POLICE doing this. There is only law UNenforcement. They are trying to make it look cleaner this year but all the criminals and fraudulant home sales and every other crime continues unabated whatsoever.
If every u.s. citizen actually knew what these people are like you would have a fence .25 miles wide and half mile tall that would kill everyone who tried to cross. The politicians and police are the biggest violent crime violators on earth here. Even human rights groups have switched to making the worst violators DISSAPPEAR.

That guy OSCAR who posted above is so full of it. He is probably mexican real estate agent or police.

Bill wrote on Jan 6, 2008 6:06 PM:I have been going to Baja for 20 years, I have a place there. I have never been treated unfairly by any police officer local/federal,never been robbed/threatened in anyway.I think most of the Mexican people are good people,just like here in ther U.S there are good and bad.I think if you take your pot there(can't believe an educated american would be that stupid!) or drink under age,act stupid like I see most americans do there you deserve what you get.The U.S govt is also corrupt!Hello!Perhaps when we control the meth users here in the U.S the suppliers in mexico will go as well.Clean your own back yard before you complain about your neighbors!!

pat wrote on Feb 27, 2008 3:45 PM:from '65 to '80 i was a luxury yacht skipper, came to know the coastline, ports, fishing villages very well and many who lived there, lots of friends. I made a trip by road to cabo in 1974 to bring down a new engine for a ski boat and faced death down. Anyone less prepared than I would have died, I vowed never to be in Mexico again without a oiece close by. That meant no more land travel. I just retired and was dreaming of taking my rv down the coast to see old friends, maybe a nice retirement place with an ocean view, close to my drug of choice -abalone. I have been living far from the border for some years and had not heard about the escalation of risk, but I called a friend at State and got the lowdown. I still wouldn't be afraid to go if I was armed, but I have to maintain my original caveat until that is possible. Oscar claims he carrys in Mexico. Is that done legally? How can I get legal status to do same? Also are Improvised Portal Security measures legal in Mexico for rv's? Are improvised lethal defenses legal other than firearms? i would really like to go so if you know a legal way I can maintain control of my safety, I'm all ears. Thanks, Pat

Brandon G. wrote on Apr 24, 2008 2:10 PM:Ive got to back up Mexico a bit here. For those of you ignorant enough to think Mexico as a third world country i urge you to check out Cambodia, Paraguay or Ghana. Are you saying there isnt corruption in our own country?? Ive been robbed in mexico...several times. Ive also been robbed at gunpoint in Colombia and Peru...but theyre still some of my favorite countries. I rode a bicycle through every country in Latin America and to this day mexico is still one of my favorite countries in the world. Do you know where my worst experience with armed bandits was? Sacramento, California. Where was Arnold when i needed him? In all of those reports how many were killed? Ive travelled all around the world and the truth is some of the worst experiences are the most memorable. Ive camped and surfed baja my whole life, and a few reports of corruption and robberies are not going to stop me. I love the place. And again i urge those of you who believe it is third world to get out and experience what a real third world country is like.

Pete wrote on Jul 6, 2008 5:47 PM:I keep seeing the term 'Third World' in these rants about Mexico; specifically northern Baja. Two thoughts spring to mind: the term "third world" in it's original sense has a meaning which is not at all synonymous with "developing country" or poor people. It is a term leftover from the Cold War and means non-aligned with either the USA or the USSR. This doesn't apply to Mexico, allied for many years with the USA. So... while parts of Mexico may have some aspects in common with true 3rd world countries like India, Pakistan, so do many cities in the USA. Describing your drive down to San Juanico or wherever as third world travel adventure makes you seem foolish. Quit flattering yourself Mr Indiana Jones.

Pedro wrote on Jul 6, 2008 5:52 PM:At least in Baja you don't need to be afraid of bin Laden.

Alex wrote on Jul 22, 2008 11:03 AM:All I have to say is that you don't understand the stituation. Has anyone been robbed in your city? Has any in your town been assalted at gun point? I live in a place where that is normal and if you live in a medium to large sized city, that is your norm. Do you want to know why most of the turist get robbed? Because they go down to get wasted! Yea lets get so drunk we don't remember the trip; and then someone robs them. Big suprise!
Yes there are problems but I have been there many times with none to speek of for myslef or anyone I have ever traveled with...

joan wrote on Oct 16, 2008 11:41 AM:When I was a child my dad took us to Ensenada. On the road a jeep in front of us with one guy standing and drinking a beer took his pants off and started peeing at us. Yes, we girls saw that and he was an American. They did not get stopped by the police or anything.

I think people like that deserve to be robbed in Baja.

I think we are acting like if we Americans are saints and we never do anything wrong in Baja. Yes we never get drunk in public, yeah, right. By the way that's is illegal in Mexico.

gene wrote on Oct 28, 2008 8:37 AM:Americans come into Mexico, a forgein country, looking for cheap liquor, cheap drugs, loose women, are disrespectful of the culture and customs and complain about how they are treated. After living in Mexico 6 years I am embarresed when a US citizen comes and acts like he is superior or important. You are a guest so do like your mother told you and behave.
If you show respect and are polite you will meet great people and havetons of fun.

David wrote on Nov 11, 2008 2:32 PM:It's one thing to post an experience, give advice and either warn or encourage but to be bigoted is another thing. Look at yourselves who call another persons home a "toilet" and third world country. If people like yourselves are allowed to go down there and take advantage of the good things baja has to offer no wonder your being trashed. As for the others who have had assaults and are victims your advice is welcomed and taken to heart. God bless for a recovery to you and the situation of the "world" at large. Respect starts with number one.