Originally Posted by mollydog

From latest news I hear, Thirty-One's post above is pretty accurate. Other areas can have incidents too but FACTS show that despite sporadic crime in certain areas, most times Tourists are not targeted or involved.

It's mostly Cartel wars, hits, attacks on local Police or Mayors. This all gets very complicated but suffice to say lots of dealing and corruption going on but rarely involves tourists. Fast easy drug money has really caused serious lasting problems for Mexico.

I hadn't heard about the bicyclists. Link? RIP

The HUGE "Is Mexico Safe" thread on ADV Rider has been going on years. I have not read it in years. Some guys there make a living of that thread.
A bit sad.

I haven't traveled in Mexico in 3 years but last there, went through Copper Canyon area where there had been some Cartel activity recently. (so I heard) All quiet ... not even military check points ... which are common everywhere in Mexico. Even hung out in and around Culiacan ... Chapo's home town. Quiet.

Couple tips:
Try to get your miles done early AM, settle in somewhere by 3 - 4 pm, don't go partying out late and walking empty streets.

Camping in some areas ... I WOULD NOT DO. Not a fan of wild camping on beaches near tourist areas (like Mazatlan or Acapulco). I have first hand knowledge of robberies there.

If you are in a rural area ... choose your spot carefully. Pay camp grounds are safe as are most Hostels/Hotels.

Biggest possible threat to travelers (IMO) would be drug people who are now doing there own product ... principally Speed.

Cheap and plentiful.(same as it is in USA). Most will know it makes people go INSANE after a while.

Most North Americans learned long ago the dangers of Speed but not all of that wisdom has filtered down South yet. Shame. Worst drug ever.

As mentioned, keep eye on News (but don't believe all they say!) ... Mexican media are worse than even the UK or USA Hype and out right lies.
Also, do not believe anything the US Embassy tells you.

Talk to locals if you can. The guys in Moto shops are usually pretty straight and some know what's going on ... but probably get most of what they know from TV news ... which is BRIGHT YELLOW there. So filter that too.

Traveling at night is never recommended ... but of course I've done it for years!
Did it last time I was there! "Do as I SAY ... NOT as I DO!"

Use common sense ... use a dummy wallet. Have really really good hiding places for cash. 98% of Mexicans are honest and good people. Smile, be friendly, look them in the eye! (something Americans no longer do here in California) Try to make a connection.