Safety, the way I see it.

[BlackdogGS]

Whenever you visit ADVrider, The Hubb, Expidition portal you will always hear how absolutely wonderful the native people are. If you watch any Moto travel vids they will always mention how safe it is and how trusting the locals are.

I'm about to depart to Mexico, centeral and South America. While riding with my Mexican pal Ricardo in Arizona I mentioned we ought to drop down into Mexico and do Copper Canyon. He said it was far too dangerous and he would never step into Mexico.

Yesterday while talking to my financial guy Ivan Garcia who, you guessed it, is Mexican, I mentioned my upcoming trip. He told me I was crazy and there was a very good chance I'd never make it to Panama.

I turn on the news and there showing bodies in the streets of Mexico, mowed down by the Cartel.

I have a dear friend I work with that was born and raised in Buenos Aires. I told her about my trip and she begged me not to go as it was much too risky.

I have been to most places in the world (not centeral or South America though). I never had an issue but I've always been on guard. I believe that 90% of people are great and trusting.

Has this had any effect on going on my trip? No, I kind of like some risk and I don't like things too easy. I'll be using "situation awareness" and be on the look out for the other 10%. I practice this state side too.