The best margarita and enchilada are not going to offset the bitter taste of daily stories of dead bodies and swine flu cases, but it’s hard to know just how safe Mexico is when you’re here and not there.
I think that’s true about any country. Think about how you might feel about the U.S. if you just watched the Nancy Grace show. You might assume that American kids get murdered or kidnapped by the droves. Obviously you feel relatively safe enough to reside in this country and many others feel safe enough to live in Mexico. So how do we know what’s really going on over there anyway?
Some of the message boards I peruse seem to indicate that many expats feel very safe and think the perception of violence in overblown. Still, I wonder what is to become of Mexico now that the U.S. economy is tanking.
I see headlines here and there mentioning that many Mexicans are going back to Mexico – for jobs! Plus, as we lose our wealth, Mexico loses all the cash that crosses the border to support children, mothers, and those who otherwise would be destitute if were not for Juan’s job as a dishwasher at On The Border.
On a personal note, my husband had an opportunity to take a job in Guadalajara last year. We mulled it over and ultimately decided not to pursue it. Why? All the stories aside, one thing I know is true about Mexico: the justice system is in complete shambles. Still, it’s a big country, and there are many pockets of paradise untouched by all the chaos.
I remain with an open mind.
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I was afraid this was going to be another hardcore anti-Mexican post.
Thanks for keeping it balanced and fair – and your thoughts are not at all far from the truth of the matter. Mexico makes a wonderful alternative, and a beautiful, safe, fulfilling change for a lot of people.
James,
Thanks for the comment. I know many who live or have business in Mexico and still love it, but recognize that there are some problems. But they are mostly in the bigger cities and border towns. The people of Mexico are wonderful and the culture is so colorful — I wish them peace and prosperity.