Spanish and Go mi esposó es de Jalisco yo soy de la Ciudad de México pero vivo en Gto hemos manejado desde Laredo , Monterrey, Saltillo, Zacatecas , Aguascalientes, Gto , Michoacano, Guerrero, San Luis Potosí , gracias a Dios nunca nos a pasado nada nos a paradado la policia pero nunca nos an pedido mordida Lo que nos an sacado el dinero son las autopistas son carísimas y están a metros una de la otra eso si es un robo 😡😡
I've traveled all over Mexico. But no longer. Last time in puerto Vallarta was sketchy. Went downtown to hit a club...got creeped out. Sorry I'll go further south to panama from now on.
When I was a teenager my family and I lived in Monterrey. I used to laugh so hard when people back in the US would ask me if I had dirt floors and rode a donkey to school. I really don't think people fully understand Mexico, but I truly fell in love with the people, the food, the music, and the culture. I learned a lot about life and how to trust my instincts by living down there and thankfully only had a small handful of those 'something doesn't feel quite right' moments - one also being at the Monarch sanctuary (still an amazing place though!) Mexico will always be a second home to me and I love your guys channel! Thanks for all the refreshers! :)
Hahahaha and Monterrey is one of the most modern cities in the country! You're right, Mexico can be a little hard to understand for those who have never experienced it, but for those who have it makes them fall in love with all the colors, the music, the food, and the culture. Some people just need to travel a bit outside of their country to really learn about the world. Thank you so much for watching and commenting! What part of the country did you enjoy the most? ¡Un abrazo grande! -May
Hollie s. That shows they haven't visited other countries, and especially Monterrey Mexico, a city more modern and sophisticated than many US cities!!! (And no, I'm not mexican!)
I go to Jalisco, Mexico every year to visit my friends and family and I have never felt unsafe or threaten but this was very great advice and I would recommend it to anyone that has never left their native country.
@@briangasca6534 just stay within the safe areas of your location and use your common sense in your surroundings. If something doesn’t look right or isn’t lit up at night I would stay away from those areas. If you can walk with a friend or a group of friends that also helps. Also try learning some of the basic words in Spanish.
Very good travel advice. Here are my tips: Don't walk the streets at night, use a taxi or bus, don't keep credit/debit cards with you unless you're going to use them and especially don't carry them at night. Make sure your laptop/phone is backed up and encrypted...I buy a local SIM card and keep my home SIM card in a safe place. Also it's good to take a cheap, spare emergency phone. When I take a taxi I like to sit in the back so I can keep an eye on the driver. I make sure any luggage goes in the boot (trunk) so that it's not visible to thieves, I try to keep my phone in my pocket and not keep it on show. Watch out for Street gangs, ie robbers may consist of multiple people, one from behind, another from the side etc. If an area looks unsafe during the day, it will be much worse by night.
To be honest, if in some place, these precautions are just a common sense, then it sounds like a pretty dangerous place already. Some parts of the world are actually safe still.
My wife and I are also a mixed-race couple, and we have visited relatives on her side in Tacoaleche, which is just outside of Zacatecas. I noticed when I walked around town by myself, a lot of people looking at me. I never felt nervous, though. Mainly amused that a white guy walking around was such a novelty. Normally, though, we hang out in the big cities. I never felt safer in my life than being in CDMX. I love it. Keep up the good work you two!
I recently spent 2 months vlogging through Mex and absolutely loved it! Other than pickpockets in Mexico City, I found it very safe and an incredible place to visit 🙌🏻
I’m originally from Mexico City , I’ve been living in Florida since 2004. There’s not a SINGLE member of my family that has not been robbed at gun point. It took me 2 years to finally lose the paranoia that I use to feel when I first got to Florida. When I say every single member , it’s real, my daughter, mother, son, brother, father, and me, some of us had violent events more than once. I just won’t go there anymore.
It’s so confusing. I meet people who live or used to live in Mexico City and I hear contradicting stories all the time: some say, “oh, no worries, it’s pretty much as safe as living in New York (I live in New York and feel safe enough). Others say that Mexico City is very dangerous. Confusing.
I was held up twice in DF and lived! Once while leaving a tour of a catholic church. The bus I was on was targeted and everyone got held up. The second time was in a Burger King. They pistol whipped the pregnant manager and then held us all up. All the tips given are very good tips to know. Be safe and enjoy what the amazing city has to offer!
Thank You for all of these supplemental vignettes of Spanish learning. Looking forward to visiting the entire series to augment my programed learning. Keep up the good work.
😆 Then it served its purpose. Fun fact, I wrote and recorded the music for this video. It’s loosely based off of Tubular Bells from the Exorcist. Cheers! -Jim
Love the video. I just proposed to my fiance who's a Mexican citizen living in Saltillo. I've visited so much and I love it in Mexico. Plan to move there in the future. She's taught me a lot but I'm always learning, and your video has taught me more. Smart tips and great video.
Thank you SO much for these tips. you guys are awesome!!! I did a trade show in Mexico City about 10 years ago, and was out late by myself, but my company told us NOT to go anywhere alone (Hard Rock Cafe, etc.). Nothing happened, but I got the point when I went back to the Hotel at around midnight. I got in the elevator, and right before the door closed, a man with a BIG gun slide in. Did not look at more or say anything. I freaked out a bit, thinking he was gonna robe me. I had a few. At any rate, when I got to my floor, I walked out and he watched me into I rent in my room. Then my roomate, who is from Mexico laughed and told me that this is one of the most expensive hotels in Mexico City. Thanks again, I learned a lot. I am moving there is 3 years, and my wife was born and grew up there. We got married over 30 years ago, and she wants to go back home. I get it, but she is dragging me with her. LOL Thanks again!
""Jerry here, Lori here" excellent video and excellent production. We love it,We love You and keep doing what you do it's appreciated by all. We've completed our collaboration video so whenever your ready let us know. Let us have a two week lead time. U2 are the greatest. Thank you
Thanks, Jerry and Lori! We just sent you a message this morning. Just got back to GTO from Colima. We appreciate the kind words. Looking forward to sharing our collab! ¡Saludos! -Jim
Apenas encontré sus videos hoy y debo decirles que ME ENCANTAN! es contenido super informativo y muy enriquecedor!!! mi novio es alemán y está aprendiendo español, no dudaré en mostrárselos!!! super bien trabajo chicos! sigan así!! :D
DailYxDosE Honestly it wasn’t bad at all. There were many beautiful parts but I wouldn’t stray too far from the center. Things get sketchy when you drive about 40 minutes outside of the historical district.
@@gigilaco I am leaving to Hermosillo Mexico to visit my girlfriend in a week. I am taking all the advice I can get. Unfortunately, I have to wait in Mexico City's airport for 3 hours before my final flight to her. So I will be preparing for that.
Went to Oaxaca by myself for a couple of weeks to study Spanish earlier this year. Walked all around the city alone and never felt unsafe. BUT: I am careful. I try to be sure I am around other people and I didn't walk around at night by myself except in the areas where there were a lot of people, like the Zocalo. I learned where the nearest bus stops to the downtown area that would take me back to the house where I was staying. I left the city to go back home before it got late. Oh, there is one tip I can think of. The buses there stop running quite early... if I remember correctly it was about 9 or 9:30 p.m. and there were at least two or three times where a bus that normally came about every 15 minutes or 20 minutes just plain never showed up. So always be sure you have enough money to take a taxi if you need to. And do not assume everyone speaks English. In the touristy areas many do but outside of those areas--nope. But if you are a student of Spanish it's a wonderful place to go because the people are so friendly, and were very happy to have conversations with me. I'm sure I made a lot of mistakes with my Spanish but it didn't matter. :-)
Great tip, Tobi! And you’re right, it’s important to not worry too much about making mistakes when practicing your Spanish. We can’t wait to visit Oaxaca. It sounds wonderful. Thanks for watching. ¡Saludos desde Guanajuato! -Jim
Buenos consejos útiles incluso al visitar cualquier zona turística o desconocida. Una vez en San Francisco (USA) viajando por mi cuenta tuve una mala experiencia que al final solo quedó en un mal recuerdo, sin embargo el resto de mi viaje por USA fue increíble.
Así, es Juan Carlos. En cualquier lugar estamos expuestos a que cosas malas pasen. Ni modo, así es aquí y en China. Es bueno poder separar lo malo y lo bueno de cada viaje para al final quedarnos con los buenos recuerdos. ¡Esa es la actitud de un buen viajero! Muchas gracias por vernos y comentar. :) ¡Un abrazo! -May
So much good information! And so many tips are good even beyond Mexico. I realized watching this video that I don’t have many phone numbers memorized, so I took some screen shots of contact info and emailed it to myself in case my phone were to be stolen. Thank you! Oh and I’m glad you mentioned the butterflies. I’ve been thinking of taking Harper to see that but I was on the fence about it. I think now I’ll wait a bit longer before we visit there.
Thanks, Erin! That's a great idea emailing yourself some phone numbers. That an easy and fast way to make sure you have some backup. Our experience visiting the monarch butterfly sanctuary was absolutely incredibly, but the weird feeling we got while we were staying in Angangueo was hard to ignore at times. There are a few other cities where you can stay that are nearby sanctuaries, so if our experience spooked you, it might be worth looking into those. You could even leave from Morelia on a day trip. We've always enjoyed staying there and never felt unsafe. It's also a great city to visit for Day of the Dead. ¡Saludos! -Jim
Because it is Colima... If those are not certain areas like every northern towns or Guerrero and Michoacán, Mexico is not that dangerous. Of course it can't be compared to east asian countries. But... it is fine for that. I once shortly lived in Guadalajara, yknow it's a one fine city of all Mexico. Before I get there I thought for myself that I should get a gun for my sake. Surprisingly, I felt safer than Oakland near my friends' home.
I was in Mexico for Spring Break. I was scared one time. I am a man above average size and strength. We were shopping in a high end out door shopping area, unsure of the name of it. I was looking at sunglasses, when I turned around my friends were gone and I was by myself. It was a bout 10 minutes on my own when I realized there were 4 people following me. I asked the next American couple I saw if I could walk with them until I found my friends. They were happy to help. I was with them for 20 minutes or so before I found them. Always travel in groups.
Great video! Hopefully people will see this and not be so afraid to visit. (That said, a lot of these tips are valid for traveling ANYWHERE!) I've been going to Mexico nearly every year of my life since I was 4 years old (I'm in my mid 30s now). While I've travelled around a fair amount over the last few years, most of my time has been spent in one of the more "dangerous" states: Guerrero. (My family 'discovered' it in the 70s and haven't looked back!) I know some locals who have been personally affected by the violence that happens from time-to-time, but as a tourist, I have never once felt unsafe. The people of Mexico are wonderful and kind, not what the US media sometimes paints them to be. I've been to many countries in my life and Mexico remains my favourite, other than home (Canada). ❤️
Thanks for sharing ...I was in Mexico City once for 4 months ...and I never felt anything bad ...but I mostly stayed around good areas like Polanco, Zocalo, Plaza Carso, etc. However, thanks for the tips as for my next time trip I am going to explore more. Muchas gracias amigos ☺️😘 ...amor de la India (Jimmy).
Thanks for the important tips.I was a student in Mexico city,DF,in 1982 for 4.5 months.I was on my way to the Univeridad by bus with my fellow student,when 5 Mexican men grabbed me and held me down taking my wallet.It was very scary yet I was unhurt and all I had in my wallet was about $5 dollars of pesos.Thank god it never happened again.I traveled through Baja Californiain 1988,and had no problems,and it helped that my Spanish was better.I also traveled to the Copper Canyon(La Baranca de Cobre) and did not have any problems.I also was in Tijuana in 1990,and a cop told me in Spanish to get my 2 friends and go with him for a ride. I pretended not to understand him, and quickly left that area with my friends.
Dude this happened with my cousin. Some kidnapers mistook her for another women and she was able to listen they were gonna kill her but good thing they noticed it was not my cousin. The stories i hear from my family!😦
Or just don't go to Mexico. I'd rather stay here in the lowest crime states in the u.s. IOWA. If I want old architecture and beaches I can go to italy, where the murder rate is 20 times below mexico's and 5 times below the u.s.a
Los Angeles is Mexico..hell Califas is Mexico. Santa Barbara. San Diego. San Francisco. Sacramento. Fresno....list goes on. Its just over run by entitled rich people which makes it an annoying place to live or visit. So we in America just call it California and just never go there.
Great video guys, I was particularly surprised that you had mentioned angangueo michoacan. My girlfriend's family lives there and it's really a nice little town. I'm a Güero and I know I stick out some but never felt unsafe there. That said we were mostly around the main plaza and I was with her. They tell me Michoacan was pretty bad for some time but has improved. Now I also lived in CDMX for 3 years, and there are safety issues when taking the metro and metrobus. I used to take ubers mostly.
Could you guys make a video of your experience living in colima? I am from Colima and right now, there are so many misconceptions about that region and I think it has some of the most wonderful people in Mexico. Greetings from Canada!
Spanish and Go I would love that! I actually found your videos trying to help my partner learn Spanish in preparation for my parents visit to Canada, and we both love them!! It was a rather amazing coincidence that you guys have links to my home state!! :)
I was born and raised in Detroit. You know where you can and cannot go so as to not put yourself into uncomfortable situations. It isn't as bad as the media makes it to be. 34 yrs and never had an issue but you need to be smart.
Mexico has always been my dream trip, I fall in love with old spaghetti western movies, I know they are mostly fake but somehow I'm fascinated by the land, their history, the people. As Italian I always thought that Mexican, south american and italian are all latin people and somehow we share blood. Ciao e grazie a tutti e due, è stato un bel video, saluti amici americani e messicani
Sounds like the basic advice for any city. I've lived and visited many cities in the US and every one you need to learn the places to avoid, stay more alert, or places you can relax more in. This part of having good street smarts and applies to cities all over the world.
Would you mind sharing how you store digital copies of documents? OneDrive or DropBox? You mentioned “encrypted” so I’m curious what technology you use. Muchas gracias.
Also my mom and dad said in school in Mexico... the teacher's were so rude... they told me that They laughed off something bad happened or anything the teacher's in Mexico there ... well at least there are some nice one's.
Thank you for the tips. I never thought of having a dummy wallet!😀 But now you have me rethinking my travel plans. I was planning to fly to Guadalajara and then take a taxi to Ajijic alone (in the daytime). You both said don't travel alone.🤔
Hello, its our first time ever going to Cancun:) Is it safe to rent a car/quad/scooter? We’d like to see as much of yucatan province as we can .. but we’ve been getting conflicting advice. Any replies would be appreciated!! Thank you
Sorry about the delay! Yes, it is safe to rent transportation in Mexico. We have rented many cars, and the occasional scooter. We have multiple videos that may help you with this: -Tips for Renting a Car in Mexico: ruclips.net/video/j4EePLQq6JU/видео.html -How to Rent a Car in Spanish: ruclips.net/video/kiVZfLTKN0Y/видео.html -How to get to PDC from the Cancun Airport: ruclips.net/video/V_j8MfDZ830/видео.html I hope that helps! Have a great time. ¡Saludos! -Jim
I and a Friend had a horrible experience with the Police South of Tulum in a rented jeep , so from personal experience I would not and if you do pray that you don't run into a very angry cop with a sub-machine gun !
Great information. I spent one day in Cozumel in April while on a cruise. We went to Paradise beach by taxi. I'm coming back in April 2019. Would love a recommendation for a great one day activity. Hopefully I will know enough Spanish to talk with some of the local people! I'm working on it! Love your videos.
Never had anything but good times in Mexico.. Good , decent people generally.. Only encountered a shakedown merchant in P V, but it took him a second to realise I wasn't to be messed with.. A great learning curve travel wise
With the exceptions of driving only in daytime and not using Uber, I follow those tips when I'm traveling almost anywhere. The dummy wallet tip was worth watching the whole video for though! I will definitely be doing that from now on! I've heard of more people having problems with regular taxi drivers in Mexico than Uber drivers, but I'm sure far more people have used taxis as well.
So basically it's relatively safe in Mexico (and other Latin American Countries) if you are street wise and take some serious precautions (not going outside when it's dark and being careful while driving). I think that makes Latin America relatively dangerous compared to most of the US (bad neighborhoods in big cities excluded), Europe and Asia. At the same time it's definitely worth to travel there, because these countries are so different and so interesting, and the people are so warm. I would love to live in Latin America if I had the chance :-)
Just about every country I've ever visited, I have run across people who want to pickpocket or scam you. I've never been a victim so far and can spot most of them. I use my intuition most of the time and it pays off. Most people just don't use common sense anymore so intuition goes out the door.. I always use a dummy wallet no matter where I'm traveling. Just like you guys, I also keep stuff in many locations. And just blend in with generic clothing while walking around. I stopped carrying a camera and just discreetly use my phone to capture photos. I never experienced any problems during the whole 3 months I was in Mexico City and I even caught the metro numerous times. But, I will add one thing that professional street muggers have revealed. If you're walking like you know where you're going and have a good pace they generally don't bother those kind of people. They're primarily looking for people that look unsure, talkingbon the phone, tourists, slow moving weak people etc. And they mentioned if any of their victims had used a whistle they would have just left. So whistles could be a good deterrent too. Thank you for this video. Very informative.
Thanks for watching and commenting! That's excellent advice. It's certainly best to do everything possible to try to not make yourself an easy target to begin with. Glad to hear you were able to use the metro in Mexico City without any issues. I wasn't so lucky, but then again, I should have been more vigilant. I had my phone in my front pocket and they still got away with it. The pickpockets there are truly professionals at what they do. ¡Saludos! -Jim
In any city anywhere ppl can get robbed. When you don't know the town you should ask to a local of your confidence for the dos and don'ts. I love traveling.
Excellent video and great advice. What you say is true, if you aren't looking for trouble and use common sense you'll be fine. I've traveled to Mexico, Colombia and more and never felt scared at any time. In all of my years traveling to Tijuana (over 10) I have been all over the city and have never ran into any problems or felt unsafe. And we all know Tijuana is famous for it's murder rate, which is due to cartel violence, not attacking tourists. Although I did see someone get mugged once. Sexually assaulted by a prostitute, LOL. It's funny because it's happened to me more times than I can remember, son gajos de oficio jajaja. Las paraditas can be a bit aggressive at times. They call me "chocolate" and tug, pull, grab and grope. The first couple of times it happened to me it was funny, now it's kind of annoying. You can get rid of them pretty quick by using the "No traigo dinero" line. The throw away wallet is great advice. I also carry money in places where thieves might not expect you to have it. One of my favorite tricks is to hide my money underneath the insole of my shoe or in my socks, underneath the sole of my foot. Another tip for staying safe is to ask the locals about the immediate area and the places you plan on visiting. Hotel staff, cab drivers, restaurant staff, etc. can be resources for staying safe and sometimes they can help save you a ton money too by giving you some great tips. Also notify your bank when traveling, otherwise you run the risk of having your credit or debit cards shut off when you start using it and they don't know you're out of the country. Not getting drunk is also a good tip, especially if you're alone. But if you do I hear pozole is a good cure for la cruda. Maybe that's what the machete carrying drunk bought with your 20 pesos jajaja. Gotta admit, I would been on edge in that situation too. Really awesome video, great tips. Keep up the good work.
We always love reading your comments, Rodney! Thanks for watching. We've never been to Tijuana, but it's fun to hear about your experience there. Sounds like the prostitutes use this technique often... 😅In my case, the "no traigo" line didn't phase her. I don't know if she was trying to offer me something for free and try to up-sell me later, but fortunately I was able to get away despite her persistence. Great tips about asking the locals about the neighborhood and letting your bank know you'll be out of the country. A lot of banks now let you put in a travel notice via their app or online. ¡Saludos desde Guanajuato! -Jim
Putting money under the insole of your shoe! Great idea! Never thought of that spot. Only problem is that I tend to wear tevas. Gonna have to put a hidey hole in them somewhere, lol.
I am a Canadian citizen and I have to say. Canada has got to be the safest country on earth. I think the social financial support helps so people are not so desperate that they have to resort to crime to survive. The down side about being Canadian is that some of us are not as street smart because we don't have to be. Videos like this help but feels daunting. For example, am I supposed do carry a dummy wallet and a real wallet so I can give the dummy wallet up during the shakedown/mugging?
Yes. many people call it a "Toss Wallet". When the muggers want your wallet you get the toss wallet from the correct pocket (very important 🙂) and aggresively throw it away. As they go after it you run like heck in the other direction.
Just listened to a similar video regarding Colombia. The violence may be over emphasized, but it does still seem like Mexico is more dangerous than Colombia.
Clement Kong it’s hard to say. We have a friend who was stabbed in the last year in Colombia. We have zero friends who have been stabbed in Mexico. 😅 -Jim
Hi both - thank you for your videos and lessons. I really enjoy watching and learning! My friends and I area heading to Mexico City, Oaxaca and Puebla in February, to celebrate a birthday! Can I ask if there is anything I need to keep a look out for in terms of our safety - in Puebla in particular. I think i remember reading you have not been to Oaxaca as yet. Thanks much!
Thanks for watching! Honestly, we would use the same tips for anywhere in Mexico. We have a good friend from Puebla and we hear it’s quite safe. In general, Mexico isn’t dangerous for tourists. I hope that helps. Have a great trip! We hope to visit Oaxaca next year, so stay tuned. Un saludo. -Jim
Have you ever had someone use the gesture of an index finger to under an eye as a signal to "teng cuidado"? Mexico is the only place I've had to go thru a metal detector to get on a bus... but living in Quito I had my pocket picked on a packed bus, and when I hollered "quien tiene mi cartera?" someone pointed to the floor near the driver: I picked it up as the bus started and someone kicked me out the door into the street and I tore a hole in my pants... Later I learned how that affected me: walking alone at night (not late) I felt a hand in my pocket. Without thinking, I INSTANTLY grabbed my right fist with my left hand and drove my right elbow back as fast and forceful as I have ever done ANYTHING. I caught the 5 ft. tall Indio smack in his solar plexus. He looked scared to death but he couldn't get his breath or say anything. I have never done anything like that before or since. But one time years later I had my pocket getting picked and I violently kicked the guy- and woke up to find my dear cat had been kicked off the foot of my bed and was glaring at me like I was crazy! PTSD is real....
The danger in Chicago, St. Louis, Memphis, Detroit, Baltimore, etc, etc are the most dangerous in the world. And everyone is a potential victim. Has nothing to do buying drugs, has to do with just being there. The media gives them a pass cause they don't want to anger their black voting Democrat block.
Mexico is a safe place so please do not give hate but Mexico does have its limits I think Mexico is a lovely and great place it has nice people and amazing places so it is safe
We’re not hating on Mexico at all. We’re just sharing our experience. We host our Spanish inmersión retreats exclusively in Mexico. Thanks for watching! -Jim
Sinaloa, Michoacan and Tamaulipas are def no go zones. I am not american, I dont think that there should be any problem with telling the truth, Michaocan for example has a civilian army of around 3k to 5k mostly farmers currently fighting the CJNG. Sinaloa is the headquarters of El Chapos old cartel now run by El Mencho and Tamaulipas is currently the hot spot for crimes and drug crimes. While yes the rest of the states and cities like los cabos, cancun, playa del carmen are fine, there are some places like those three states that I would want people not to come.
I have been to Merida, Cancun, Mexico City, Tijuana,and Guadalajara. I was robbed at about 9:00 am, in Tijuana, 2018. 5 minutes walk the border, 1 minute walk to police station. The policeman didn't arrest the robbers. Even after months, I had them arrested One of the gangsters. They gave up finally.
This is the first sensible channel. I've watched these 2 other couples who are living on borrowed time because they are so clueless to the dangers. Growing up in NY I know you can live somewhere & be safe because you fit in....tourists to NY are sitting ducks. They may as well have a sign on them
Have you ever been to Mexico? What was your experience there? Let us know below!
Spanish and Go mi esposó es de Jalisco yo soy de la Ciudad de México pero vivo en Gto hemos manejado desde Laredo , Monterrey, Saltillo, Zacatecas , Aguascalientes, Gto , Michoacano, Guerrero, San Luis Potosí , gracias a Dios nunca nos a pasado nada nos a paradado la policia pero nunca nos an pedido mordida
Lo que nos an sacado el dinero son las autopistas son carísimas y están a metros una de la otra eso si es un robo 😡😡
Tim si es mucho mejor cómodo , seguro buenas carretera si no están en construcción lo único malo es lo costoso $$$$
SPANISH AND GO. SORRY GUYS BUT BASE ON YOUR STORIES.YEAH MEXICO IS DANGEROUS.YOU CANT BE WATCHING YOUR BACK EVERY SECOND......
You should know!
Sweet Jesus did you ever step out of a 6 thousand pound vehicle?
I've traveled all over Mexico. But no longer. Last time in puerto Vallarta was sketchy. Went downtown to hit a club...got creeped out. Sorry I'll go further south to panama from now on.
When I was a teenager my family and I lived in Monterrey. I used to laugh so hard when people back in the US would ask me if I had dirt floors and rode a donkey to school. I really don't think people fully understand Mexico, but I truly fell in love with the people, the food, the music, and the culture. I learned a lot about life and how to trust my instincts by living down there and thankfully only had a small handful of those 'something doesn't feel quite right' moments - one also being at the Monarch sanctuary (still an amazing place though!)
Mexico will always be a second home to me and I love your guys channel! Thanks for all the refreshers! :)
Hahahaha and Monterrey is one of the most modern cities in the country!
You're right, Mexico can be a little hard to understand for those who have never experienced it, but for those who have it makes them fall in love with all the colors, the music, the food, and the culture.
Some people just need to travel a bit outside of their country to really learn about the world.
Thank you so much for watching and commenting!
What part of the country did you enjoy the most?
¡Un abrazo grande!
-May
Hollie s. That shows they haven't visited other countries, and especially Monterrey Mexico, a city more modern and sophisticated than many US cities!!! (And no, I'm not mexican!)
Mexicans really respect you if you speak Spanish and they often complement you for it.
I go to Jalisco, Mexico every year to visit my friends and family and I have never felt unsafe or threaten but this was very great advice and I would recommend it to anyone that has never left their native country.
I’m going in a month and I’m scared
Any tips ?
@@briangasca6534 just stay within the safe areas of your location and use your common sense in your surroundings. If something doesn’t look right or isn’t lit up at night I would stay away from those areas. If you can walk with a friend or a group of friends that also helps. Also try learning some of the basic words in Spanish.
Jalisco? I guess being under the protection of El Mencho has its benefits.
Very good travel advice. Here are my tips: Don't walk the streets at night, use a taxi or bus, don't keep credit/debit cards with you unless you're going to use them and especially don't carry them at night. Make sure your laptop/phone is backed up and encrypted...I buy a local SIM card and keep my home SIM card in a safe place. Also it's good to take a cheap, spare emergency phone. When I take a taxi I like to sit in the back so I can keep an eye on the driver. I make sure any luggage goes in the boot (trunk) so that it's not visible to thieves, I try to keep my phone in my pocket and not keep it on show. Watch out for Street gangs, ie robbers may consist of multiple people, one from behind, another from the side etc. If an area looks unsafe during the day, it will be much worse by night.
It doesn't sound all that safe with so many precautions. Wonder why the butterfly sanctuary is a hotbed of potential crime?
@@thebigskyguy nowhere is 100% safe
i think that is good advice for everywhere you go in the world. its just common sense
¡Exacto! No matter where you go to, bad things can happen. It's best to be alert.
Thanks for watching and commenting, Eduardo!
¡Un saludo!
-May
Go to iceland and none of these rules apply, its safe af there
To be honest, if in some place, these precautions are just a common sense, then it sounds like a pretty dangerous place already. Some parts of the world are actually safe still.
I’ve been to Nepal and they don’t have any crime like Mexico.
Mexico is crime ridden.
My wife and I are also a mixed-race couple, and we have visited relatives on her side in Tacoaleche, which is just outside of Zacatecas. I noticed when I walked around town by myself, a lot of people looking at me. I never felt nervous, though. Mainly amused that a white guy walking around was such a novelty. Normally, though, we hang out in the big cities. I never felt safer in my life than being in CDMX. I love it. Keep up the good work you two!
My Mexican friend went to Alabama and people was looking at him in such a way that he felt so uncomfortable ,sad. :(
@@AndyX1337 Alabama is not really somewhere touristy. Tourists in general are gonna confuse the lcoals
The best rule for all of Latin America. Do not walk at night. And especially not alone.
I’d say that also goes for any U.S. city.
I recently spent 2 months vlogging through Mex and absolutely loved it! Other than pickpockets in Mexico City, I found it very safe and an incredible place to visit 🙌🏻
I’m originally from Mexico City , I’ve been living in Florida since 2004. There’s not a SINGLE member of my family that has not been robbed at gun point. It took me 2 years to finally lose the paranoia that I use to feel when I first got to Florida. When I say every single member , it’s real, my daughter, mother, son, brother, father, and me, some of us had violent events more than once. I just won’t go there anymore.
sad
It’s so confusing. I meet people who live or used to live in Mexico City and I hear contradicting stories all the time: some say, “oh, no worries, it’s pretty much as safe as living in New York (I live in New York and feel safe enough). Others say that Mexico City is very dangerous. Confusing.
@@nomadicolours Many people say that Miami is dangerous too,
From your comment it’s not very clear what place exactly is dangerous and where you won’t go anymore : Mexico or Miami ? Where was your family robbed?
@@gala_mars you need to live there to know how unsafe it is,
I was held up twice in DF and lived! Once while leaving a tour of a catholic church. The bus I was on was targeted and everyone got held up. The second time was in a Burger King. They pistol whipped the pregnant manager and then held us all up. All the tips given are very good tips to know. Be safe and enjoy what the amazing city has to offer!
Thank You for all of these supplemental vignettes of Spanish learning. Looking forward to visiting the entire series to augment my programed learning. Keep up the good work.
Great info.. the music is creeping me out to .
😆 Then it served its purpose. Fun fact, I wrote and recorded the music for this video. It’s loosely based off of Tubular Bells from the Exorcist. Cheers! -Jim
@@SpanishandGo Haha
my mother is from Colima, and I still have family living there. We love visiting Colima.
My new favorite travel RUclips channel! I like your simple travel style many of us can relate to. Great job guys! Keep up your good work!
Thanks, Rafael! Much more to come soon. ¡Saludos! -Jim
Love the video. I just proposed to my fiance who's a Mexican citizen living in Saltillo. I've visited so much and I love it in Mexico. Plan to move there in the future. She's taught me a lot but I'm always learning, and your video has taught me more. Smart tips and great video.
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE INFO!!!! Know what? That practical information applies, not just to Mexico, but to any country you are planning to visit!
You are very fortunate to have such a sweet, genuine and down to earth wife.
I agree! Thanks for watching. Un saludo. -Jim
Thank you SO much for these tips. you guys are awesome!!! I did a trade show in Mexico City about 10 years ago, and was out late by myself, but my company told us NOT to go anywhere alone (Hard Rock Cafe, etc.). Nothing happened, but I got the point when I went back to the Hotel at around midnight. I got in the elevator, and right before the door closed, a man with a BIG gun slide in. Did not look at more or say anything. I freaked out a bit, thinking he was gonna robe me. I had a few. At any rate, when I got to my floor, I walked out and he watched me into I rent in my room. Then my roomate, who is from Mexico laughed and told me that this is one of the most expensive hotels in Mexico City. Thanks again, I learned a lot. I am moving there is 3 years, and my wife was born and grew up there. We got married over 30 years ago, and she wants to go back home. I get it, but she is dragging me with her. LOL Thanks again!
""Jerry here, Lori here" excellent video and excellent production. We love it,We love You and keep doing what you do it's appreciated by all.
We've completed our collaboration video so whenever your ready let us know. Let us have a two week lead time. U2 are the greatest.
Thank you
Thanks, Jerry and Lori! We just sent you a message this morning. Just got back to GTO from Colima. We appreciate the kind words. Looking forward to sharing our collab! ¡Saludos! -Jim
Good sound advice for staying safe when traveling just about anywhere. Thanks.
I've been living in Zihuatanejo for 8 years. Never felt safer. Great channel..thank you
Did you meet Red and Andy? Sorry, I had to. >.>
Apenas encontré sus videos hoy y debo decirles que ME ENCANTAN! es contenido super informativo y muy enriquecedor!!! mi novio es alemán y está aprendiendo español, no dudaré en mostrárselos!!! super bien trabajo chicos! sigan así!! :D
¡Que buena onda! Nos alegra escuchar que disfrutas nuestro contenido. ¿De que parte de Mexico eres? Gracias por vernos. -Jim
You're wife is so beautiful
Brett Dawson I don’t get it, what do you have against black people honestly
@Brett Dawson We don't need your type of post! And if you cannot say something nice or intelligent then best to not post here.
Agree! Latina women are beautiful!
@@pep590 What lol
I’m going to Mexico City tomorrow to see my girlfriend who lives there. I’m feeling much better now. Thanks guys, I was really starting to panic.
Enjoy Mexico City! You’ll have a great time. Thanks for watching. -Jim
How was it? I’ve got family in Mexico City but I’m too scared.
DailYxDosE Honestly it wasn’t bad at all. There were many beautiful parts but I wouldn’t stray too far from the center. Things get sketchy when you drive about 40 minutes outside of the historical district.
@@gigilaco I am leaving to Hermosillo Mexico to visit my girlfriend in a week. I am taking all the advice I can get. Unfortunately, I have to wait in Mexico City's airport for 3 hours before my final flight to her. So I will be preparing for that.
Crack is wack!!!! XD
Tremendo trabajo! Un abrazo
😆 ¡Gracias por vernos, hermano! Un saludo. -Jim
Went to Oaxaca by myself for a couple of weeks to study Spanish earlier this year. Walked all around the city alone and never felt unsafe. BUT: I am careful. I try to be sure I am around other people and I didn't walk around at night by myself except in the areas where there were a lot of people, like the Zocalo. I learned where the nearest bus stops to the downtown area that would take me back to the house where I was staying. I left the city to go back home before it got late. Oh, there is one tip I can think of. The buses there stop running quite early... if I remember correctly it was about 9 or 9:30 p.m. and there were at least two or three times where a bus that normally came about every 15 minutes or 20 minutes just plain never showed up. So always be sure you have enough money to take a taxi if you need to. And do not assume everyone speaks English. In the touristy areas many do but outside of those areas--nope. But if you are a student of Spanish it's a wonderful place to go because the people are so friendly, and were very happy to have conversations with me. I'm sure I made a lot of mistakes with my Spanish but it didn't matter. :-)
Great tip, Tobi! And you’re right, it’s important to not worry too much about making mistakes when practicing your Spanish. We can’t wait to visit Oaxaca. It sounds wonderful. Thanks for watching. ¡Saludos desde Guanajuato! -Jim
Buenos consejos útiles incluso al visitar cualquier zona turística o desconocida. Una vez en San Francisco (USA) viajando por mi cuenta tuve una mala experiencia que al final solo quedó en un mal recuerdo, sin embargo el resto de mi viaje por USA fue increíble.
Así, es Juan Carlos. En cualquier lugar estamos expuestos a que cosas malas pasen. Ni modo, así es aquí y en China.
Es bueno poder separar lo malo y lo bueno de cada viaje para al final quedarnos con los buenos recuerdos.
¡Esa es la actitud de un buen viajero!
Muchas gracias por vernos y comentar. :)
¡Un abrazo!
-May
I feel safer in most of Mexico than in a lot of places in the US. Perhaps more crime in Chicago over a weekend than in all of Mexico.
So much good information! And so many tips are good even beyond Mexico. I realized watching this video that I don’t have many phone numbers memorized, so I took some screen shots of contact info and emailed it to myself in case my phone were to be stolen. Thank you! Oh and I’m glad you mentioned the butterflies. I’ve been thinking of taking Harper to see that but I was on the fence about it. I think now I’ll wait a bit longer before we visit there.
Thanks, Erin! That's a great idea emailing yourself some phone numbers. That an easy and fast way to make sure you have some backup. Our experience visiting the monarch butterfly sanctuary was absolutely incredibly, but the weird feeling we got while we were staying in Angangueo was hard to ignore at times.
There are a few other cities where you can stay that are nearby sanctuaries, so if our experience spooked you, it might be worth looking into those. You could even leave from Morelia on a day trip. We've always enjoyed staying there and never felt unsafe. It's also a great city to visit for Day of the Dead.
¡Saludos! -Jim
Holaaa Erin's tus vídeos son muy buenos también . Saludos
your girl is latina and speaks the language so you have a HUGE upper hand
Compliments. hoping to go to Mexico. grate advice.
I really enjoy your videos. This one in particular is incredible and very though rough. Thanks for taking the time.
all my family lives in Colima, Colima. They never said anything about the "dangers"...unless you are involved in organized crime.
Because it is Colima... If those are not certain areas like every northern towns or Guerrero and Michoacán, Mexico is not that dangerous. Of course it can't be compared to east asian countries. But... it is fine for that. I once shortly lived in Guadalajara, yknow it's a one fine city of all Mexico. Before I get there I thought for myself that I should get a gun for my sake. Surprisingly, I felt safer than Oakland near my friends' home.
I was in Mexico for Spring Break. I was scared one time. I am a man above average size and strength. We were shopping in a high end out door shopping area, unsure of the name of it. I was looking at sunglasses, when I turned around my friends were gone and I was by myself. It was a bout 10 minutes on my own when I realized there were 4 people following me. I asked the next American couple I saw if I could walk with them until I found my friends. They were happy to help. I was with them for 20 minutes or so before I found them. Always travel in groups.
I'm a woman and I traveled in Mexico alone. When you get older, it's harder to find people who are willing to be adventurous with you.
Great tips! But now I'm going to be more paranoid when I travel!🤣
Great video! Hopefully people will see this and not be so afraid to visit. (That said, a lot of these tips are valid for traveling ANYWHERE!) I've been going to Mexico nearly every year of my life since I was 4 years old (I'm in my mid 30s now). While I've travelled around a fair amount over the last few years, most of my time has been spent in one of the more "dangerous" states: Guerrero. (My family 'discovered' it in the 70s and haven't looked back!) I know some locals who have been personally affected by the violence that happens from time-to-time, but as a tourist, I have never once felt unsafe. The people of Mexico are wonderful and kind, not what the US media sometimes paints them to be. I've been to many countries in my life and Mexico remains my favourite, other than home (Canada). ❤️
Thanks for sharing ...I was in Mexico City once for 4 months ...and I never felt anything bad ...but I mostly stayed around good areas like Polanco, Zocalo, Plaza Carso, etc. However, thanks for the tips as for my next time trip I am going to explore more. Muchas gracias amigos ☺️😘 ...amor de la India (Jimmy).
Nice bookcase in the background.
Thanks for the important tips.I was a student in Mexico city,DF,in 1982 for 4.5 months.I was on my way to the Univeridad by bus with my fellow student,when 5 Mexican men grabbed me and held me down taking my wallet.It was very scary yet I was unhurt and all I had in my wallet was about $5 dollars of pesos.Thank god it never happened again.I traveled through Baja Californiain 1988,and had no problems,and it helped that my Spanish was better.I also traveled to the Copper Canyon(La Baranca de Cobre) and did not have any problems.I also was in Tijuana in 1990,and a cop told me in Spanish to get my 2 friends and go with him for a ride. I pretended not to understand him, and quickly left that area with my friends.
Dude this happened with my cousin. Some kidnapers mistook her for another women and she was able to listen they were gonna kill her but good thing they noticed it was not my cousin. The stories i hear from my family!😦
Excellent video you two. 👍
Great advice
My 29 year old son is going to Cancun for the first time...I shared your video and I will test him on it..😉
Cancun is safe it's a tourist place
thanks for sharing great tips
I’ve only visited the Yucatán state! I’m going to Los Cabo in August! Mi amor Mexico muy Bonita
I think I would be safer in Mexico than los Angeles 🤣
LOS SANTOS
@@chrisii1867 yeah, there is Michael, Trevor and Franklin
Or Chicago or .....
Or just don't go to Mexico. I'd rather stay here in the lowest crime states in the u.s. IOWA. If I want old architecture and beaches I can go to italy, where the murder rate is 20 times below mexico's and 5 times below the u.s.a
Los Angeles is Mexico..hell Califas is Mexico. Santa Barbara. San Diego. San Francisco. Sacramento. Fresno....list goes on. Its just over run by entitled rich people which makes it an annoying place to live or visit. So we in America just call it California and just never go there.
Lol im from colima and have never realized that it was dangerous 😂😂
Wow i am very happy to hear you say this! Thank you!!
Colima does'nt exists, i read it on internet
MrButter df 🥴 you can dead ass see it on the map
Great video guys. Very helpful information!
You mean missinformation?
Great video guys, I was particularly surprised that you had mentioned angangueo michoacan. My girlfriend's family lives there and it's really a nice little town. I'm a Güero and I know I stick out some but never felt unsafe there. That said we were mostly around the main plaza and I was with her. They tell me Michoacan was pretty bad for some time but has improved. Now I also lived in CDMX for 3 years, and there are safety issues when taking the metro and metrobus. I used to take ubers mostly.
Could you guys make a video of your experience living in colima? I am from Colima and right now, there are so many misconceptions about that region and I think it has some of the most wonderful people in Mexico. Greetings from Canada!
It's sad to hear that people are afraid to visit such a wonderful state. We'll have more videos about Colima in the future. :)
Thanks for commenting!
Spanish and Go I would love that! I actually found your videos trying to help my partner learn Spanish in preparation for my parents visit to Canada, and we both love them!! It was a rather amazing coincidence that you guys have links to my home state!! :)
I lived just outside of Detroit all my life. Still this stuff is good to know
John Pagoto Isn’t Detroit dangerous? Haha!
I grew up there as well - gotten much better
I was born and raised in Detroit. You know where you can and cannot go so as to not put yourself into uncomfortable situations. It isn't as bad as the media makes it to be. 34 yrs and never had an issue but you need to be smart.
Great information. I'm traveling as solo female & don't speak the language. This is really helpful info. Thank you
Mexico has always been my dream trip, I fall in love with old spaghetti western movies, I know they are mostly fake but somehow I'm fascinated by the land, their history, the people. As Italian I always thought that Mexican, south american and italian are all latin people and somehow we share blood. Ciao e grazie a tutti e due, è stato un bel video, saluti amici americani e messicani
Thank u i was going to mexico and a lot tip from you guys thanks is cancun safe
North Korea and Afghanistan are safe too if you follow all the safety precautions.
We went to Rivera Miya in 2018 and had a blast!!!!!!
Awesome! Glad to hear you had a good time. We love that area too. -Jim
I appreciate this video so much!
Thank you for this comprehensive, great info!
Thanks for watching! Un saludo. -Jim
Sounds like the basic advice for any city. I've lived and visited many cities in the US and every one you need to learn the places to avoid, stay more alert, or places you can relax more in. This part of having good street smarts and applies to cities all over the world.
Thanks so much for this video its very helpful
How do you make digital encrypted copies of all your important cards etc? EXCELLENT VIDEO
This is a feature that’s included in LastPass. You just upload the images and it encrypts them for you.
Love your videos!!
Mexico is very safe. I only got robbed 4 times, got a gun pulled on me only twice, and only got carjacked once. Safest country in the universe!
Oh yeah just like a trip to the grocery store, perfectly safe lmao
And the gun made in America, and looks like you went to the bars and places like that, no wonder.
@@AndyX1337 Is it only America that makes guns?
Would you mind sharing how you store digital copies of documents? OneDrive or DropBox? You mentioned “encrypted” so I’m curious what technology you use. Muchas gracias.
I was wondering that, too.
Also my mom and dad said in school in Mexico... the teacher's were so rude... they told me that They laughed off something bad happened or anything the teacher's in Mexico there ... well at least there are some nice one's.
Fantastico! Your video is like a public service message. Thank you for your good work!
Thank you. Good to know.
socorro scow thanks for watching! Would you feel safe visiting Mexico? -Jim
10 peanuts were walking down the street, one was a “salted!” 🤪😂
Thank you for the tips. I never thought of having a dummy wallet!😀 But now you have me rethinking my travel plans. I was planning to fly to Guadalajara and then take a taxi to Ajijic alone (in the daytime). You both said don't travel alone.🤔
Hello, its our first time ever going to Cancun:)
Is it safe to rent a car/quad/scooter? We’d like to see as much of yucatan province as we can .. but we’ve been getting conflicting advice.
Any replies would be appreciated!! Thank you
Sorry about the delay! Yes, it is safe to rent transportation in Mexico. We have rented many cars, and the occasional scooter. We have multiple videos that may help you with this:
-Tips for Renting a Car in Mexico: ruclips.net/video/j4EePLQq6JU/видео.html
-How to Rent a Car in Spanish: ruclips.net/video/kiVZfLTKN0Y/видео.html
-How to get to PDC from the Cancun Airport: ruclips.net/video/V_j8MfDZ830/видео.html
I hope that helps! Have a great time. ¡Saludos! -Jim
I and a Friend had a horrible experience with the Police South of Tulum in a rented jeep , so from personal experience I would not and if you do pray that you don't run into a very angry cop with a sub-machine gun !
@@MrSymbolic7 what actually happened?
Great video!....Mexican guy here.
gracias friends
Great information. I spent one day in Cozumel in April while on a cruise. We went to Paradise beach by taxi. I'm coming back in April 2019. Would love a recommendation for a great one day activity. Hopefully I will know enough Spanish to talk with some of the local people! I'm working on it! Love your videos.
Never had anything but good times in Mexico..
Good , decent people generally..
Only encountered a shakedown merchant in P V, but it took him a second to realise I wasn't to be messed with..
A great learning curve travel wise
Thank you
Great video
What program do you use for the slides and transitions?
Thanks! We use Final Cut Pro X. -Jim
Great video, very good information. I carry a dummy when in New Orleans, that place should be a level 4 at night.
Currently planning on bike touring Mexico... sticking out is unavoidable >.
Great to watch this video as I am travelling to Mexico in a few months and I was a little worried about the violence.
Thanks for watching. We're glad you found it useful! Where are you going to in Mexico? -Jim
🙄🙄🙄
With the exceptions of driving only in daytime and not using Uber, I follow those tips when I'm traveling almost anywhere. The dummy wallet tip was worth watching the whole video for though! I will definitely be doing that from now on!
I've heard of more people having problems with regular taxi drivers in Mexico than Uber drivers, but I'm sure far more people have used taxis as well.
I sounds like suggest you can use uber in a city that has it. They were talking about places with only taxis
So basically it's relatively safe in Mexico (and other Latin American Countries) if you are street wise and take some serious precautions (not going outside when it's dark and being careful while driving). I think that makes Latin America relatively dangerous compared to most of the US (bad neighborhoods in big cities excluded), Europe and Asia. At the same time it's definitely worth to travel there, because these countries are so different and so interesting, and the people are so warm. I would love to live in Latin America if I had the chance :-)
Not all Latin American countries are the same. Some are safer than others.
Smart and thoughtful couple 😁
❤️ ¡Gracias! Thanks for watching! -Jim
Just about every country I've ever visited, I have run across people who want to pickpocket or scam you. I've never been a victim so far and can spot most of them.
I use my intuition most of the time and it pays off. Most people just don't use common sense anymore so intuition goes out the door..
I always use a dummy wallet no matter where I'm traveling. Just like you guys, I also keep stuff in many locations. And just blend in with generic clothing while walking around. I stopped carrying a camera and just discreetly use my phone to capture photos.
I never experienced any problems during the whole 3 months I was in Mexico City and I even caught the metro numerous times.
But, I will add one thing that professional street muggers have revealed. If you're walking like you know where you're going and have a good pace they generally don't bother those kind of people. They're primarily looking for people that look unsure, talkingbon the phone, tourists, slow moving weak people etc. And they mentioned if any of their victims had used a whistle they would have just left. So whistles could be a good deterrent too.
Thank you for this video. Very informative.
Thanks for watching and commenting! That's excellent advice. It's certainly best to do everything possible to try to not make yourself an easy target to begin with. Glad to hear you were able to use the metro in Mexico City without any issues. I wasn't so lucky, but then again, I should have been more vigilant. I had my phone in my front pocket and they still got away with it. The pickpockets there are truly professionals at what they do. ¡Saludos! -Jim
Ummm.. i'd have given him 20 pesos too OMG .. hahahaha.
Drunk farmers with machetes get as many pesos as they need to cure their hangovers from me. 😂 -Jim
How is the pizza in Mexico? Up to your standards?
Very helpful tips. Cute couple. :-)
I been to Mexico few times, I'm still here
Good deal, René! We miss Mexico. We'll be back soon. Cheers. -Jim
In any city anywhere ppl can get robbed. When you don't know the town you should ask to a local of your confidence for the dos and don'ts. I love traveling.
Excellent video and great advice. What you say is true, if you aren't looking for trouble and use common sense you'll be fine. I've traveled to Mexico, Colombia and more and never felt scared at any time.
In all of my years traveling to Tijuana (over 10) I have been all over the city and have never ran into any problems or felt unsafe. And we all know Tijuana is famous for it's murder rate, which is due to cartel violence, not attacking tourists. Although I did see someone get mugged once.
Sexually assaulted by a prostitute, LOL. It's funny because it's happened to me more times than I can remember, son gajos de oficio jajaja. Las paraditas can be a bit aggressive at times. They call me "chocolate" and tug, pull, grab and grope. The first couple of times it happened to me it was funny, now it's kind of annoying. You can get rid of them pretty quick by using the "No traigo dinero" line.
The throw away wallet is great advice. I also carry money in places where thieves might not expect you to have it. One of my favorite tricks is to hide my money underneath the insole of my shoe or in my socks, underneath the sole of my foot.
Another tip for staying safe is to ask the locals about the immediate area and the places you plan on visiting. Hotel staff, cab drivers, restaurant staff, etc. can be resources for staying safe and sometimes they can help save you a ton money too by giving you some great tips.
Also notify your bank when traveling, otherwise you run the risk of having your credit or debit cards shut off when you start using it and they don't know you're out of the country.
Not getting drunk is also a good tip, especially if you're alone. But if you do I hear pozole is a good cure for la cruda. Maybe that's what the machete carrying drunk bought with your 20 pesos jajaja. Gotta admit, I would been on edge in that situation too.
Really awesome video, great tips. Keep up the good work.
We always love reading your comments, Rodney! Thanks for watching. We've never been to Tijuana, but it's fun to hear about your experience there. Sounds like the prostitutes use this technique often... 😅In my case, the "no traigo" line didn't phase her. I don't know if she was trying to offer me something for free and try to up-sell me later, but fortunately I was able to get away despite her persistence.
Great tips about asking the locals about the neighborhood and letting your bank know you'll be out of the country. A lot of banks now let you put in a travel notice via their app or online.
¡Saludos desde Guanajuato! -Jim
Putting money under the insole of your shoe! Great idea! Never thought of that spot. Only problem is that I tend to wear tevas. Gonna have to put a hidey hole in them somewhere, lol.
Rodney, to me It doesn't look not feeling unsafe if you need to take so many precautions when you go out.
I am a Canadian citizen and I have to say. Canada has got to be the safest country on earth. I think the social financial support helps so people are not so desperate that they have to resort to crime to survive.
The down side about being Canadian is that some of us are not as street smart because we don't have to be. Videos like this help but feels daunting. For example, am I supposed do carry a dummy wallet and a real wallet so I can give the dummy wallet up during the shakedown/mugging?
Yes. many people call it a "Toss Wallet". When the muggers want your wallet you get the toss wallet from the correct pocket (very important 🙂) and aggresively throw it away. As they go after it you run like heck in the other direction.
Just listened to a similar video regarding Colombia. The violence may be over emphasized, but it does still seem like Mexico is more dangerous than Colombia.
Clement Kong it’s hard to say. We have a friend who was stabbed in the last year in Colombia. We have zero friends who have been stabbed in Mexico. 😅 -Jim
Hi both - thank you for your videos and lessons. I really enjoy watching and learning! My friends and I area heading to Mexico City, Oaxaca and Puebla in February, to celebrate a birthday! Can I ask if there is anything I need to keep a look out for in terms of our safety - in Puebla in particular. I think i remember reading you have not been to Oaxaca as yet. Thanks much!
Thanks for watching! Honestly, we would use the same tips for anywhere in Mexico. We have a good friend from Puebla and we hear it’s quite safe. In general, Mexico isn’t dangerous for tourists. I hope that helps. Have a great trip! We hope to visit Oaxaca next year, so stay tuned. Un saludo. -Jim
@@SpanishandGo Thank you guys! Much appreciated!
Have you ever had someone use the gesture of an index finger to under an eye as a signal to "teng cuidado"? Mexico is the only place I've had to go thru a metal detector to get on a bus... but living in Quito I had my pocket picked on a packed bus, and when I hollered "quien tiene mi cartera?" someone pointed to the floor near the driver: I picked it up as the bus started and someone kicked me out the door into the street and I tore a hole in my pants... Later I learned how that affected me: walking alone at night (not late) I felt a hand in my pocket. Without thinking, I INSTANTLY grabbed my right fist with my left hand and drove my right elbow back as fast and forceful as I have ever done ANYTHING. I caught the 5 ft. tall Indio smack in his solar plexus. He looked scared to death but he couldn't get his breath or say anything. I have never done anything like that before or since. But one time years later I had my pocket getting picked and I violently kicked the guy- and woke up to find my dear cat had been kicked off the foot of my bed and was glaring at me like I was crazy! PTSD is real....
The danger in Chicago, St. Louis, Memphis, Detroit, Baltimore, etc, etc are the most dangerous in the world. And everyone is a potential victim. Has nothing to do buying drugs, has to do with just being there. The media gives them a pass cause they don't want to anger their black voting Democrat block.
Is that why trump wanted the army in Chicago and wanted to build a wall? Trust, the government doesn’t care about blacks, no one does
Mexico is a safe place so please do not give hate but Mexico does have its limits
I think Mexico is a lovely and great place it has nice people and amazing places so it is safe
We’re not hating on Mexico at all. We’re just sharing our experience. We host our Spanish inmersión retreats exclusively in Mexico. Thanks for watching! -Jim
Sinaloa, Michoacan and Tamaulipas are def no go zones. I am not american, I dont think that there should be any problem with telling the truth, Michaocan for example has a civilian army of around 3k to 5k mostly farmers currently fighting the CJNG. Sinaloa is the headquarters of El Chapos old cartel now run by El Mencho and Tamaulipas is currently the hot spot for crimes and drug crimes. While yes the rest of the states and cities like los cabos, cancun, playa del carmen are fine, there are some places like those three states that I would want people not to come.
I live in the México City and its pretty dangerous im used to it but if you're not from México you might not want to travel in the México Subway
Zaxe 1UP Really, I know this guy that always talks about how great the subway system is.
I have been to Merida, Cancun, Mexico City, Tijuana,and Guadalajara. I was robbed at about 9:00 am, in Tijuana, 2018. 5 minutes walk the border, 1 minute walk to police station. The policeman didn't arrest the robbers. Even after months, I had them arrested One of the gangsters. They gave up finally.
It’s so unbelievably safe! Getting robbed and carjacked is part of the fun!
Great video.. Love her accent!
This is the first sensible channel. I've watched these 2 other couples who are living on borrowed time because they are so clueless to the dangers. Growing up in NY I know you can live somewhere & be safe because you fit in....tourists to NY are sitting ducks. They may as well have a sign on them
Thanks, Nicki! We do our best to be realistic on our channel. We appreciate your support. More to come soon. -Jim
Don't know if you will be down for it but... what if we have a party whenever you come to Barcelona?
A party in Barcelona sounds like a blast! Hope all of this will be over soon. We were hoping to visit Spain later this year. Un saludo. -Jim
Is the Mexico historic center safe?