Warden Message – Demonstration

May 13, 2010

The U.S. Consulates in Nogales and Hermosillo wish to advise American citizens of demonstrations scheduled to occur at the Nogales (Morley and Deconcini) as well as the Douglas/Agua Prieta ports of entry on Friday, May 14 and Saturday May 15, 2010. As of this message, no demonstration permit has been filed for the Mariposa port of entry. Law enforcement agencies on both sides of the border currently believe that the chances for disruption of traffic or violence are minimal. U.S. government employees have been asked to delay travel through these ports of entry.

We remind American citizens that demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. American citizens are therefore urged to follow local media reports about planned or spontaneous demonstrations connected with the recently passed Arizona immigration law.

In the event you find yourself in an area where a demonstration is occurring, you should take the following security measures:

1. Be prepared to follow all directions from police officers. This includes not entering closed areas, changing your direction of travel, or clearing streets.

2. Avoid potentially hazardous situations. Do not attempt to walk through a crowd because your destination is in the middle or just on the other side of the group.

3. If threatened, do not engage. Move to the closest secure location (store, lobby, etc). Call the Police (066) and immediately report your situation. Also, be sure to notify the U.S. Consulate in Nogales +52 631-313-8150, or +52 1 (631) 318-0723 or the U.S. Consulate General in Hermosillo +52 (662) 289-3500.

U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department’s travel registration web site at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance, be aware of local events, and take the appropriate steps to bolster their personal security. For additional information, please refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” found at http://travel.state.gov.

U.S. citizens in Nogales’ consular district may contact the American Citizens Services (ACS) Unit at the U.S. Consulate, located on Calle San Jose (S/N), Col. Los Alamos, Nogales, Sonora, Mexico; telephone 011 +52 (631) 311-8150; after hours emergency telephone 011 +52 1 (631) 318-0723; web page: http://nogales.usconsulate.gov/; ACS Unit fax 011 +52 (631) 313-4652; email: NogalesACS@state.gov.

U.S. citizens in Hermosillo’s consular district may contact the American Citizens Services (ACS) Unit at the U.S. Consulate General, located at Monterrey 141 Poniente, Col. Esqueda, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico; telephone 011 +52 (662) 289-3500; after hours emergency telephone 011 +52 1 (662) 256-0741; web page: http://hermosillo.usconsulate.gov; ACS Unit fax 662 217 2571; email: Hermoacs@state.gov.

Did you ever notice that your neighborhood is “safe” and crime occurs elsewhere?

The media reinforces that notion when they show the crime and violence in other places, like what is going on in Mexico. Would you consider canceling a trip to Tucson (pop. 1,014,000) or Phoenix (pop. 1,636,000) because of the violence in those cities? From January 2007 through third quarter 2009, there were 640 (24.2 / 100,000) homicides in those cities compared to Rosarito Beach (pop. 106,000), Ensenada (pop. 460,000), Mexicali (pop. 855,000), San Felipe (pop. 20,000), Tecate (pop. 125,000) and Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point)(pop. 40,000) only had 42 (1.2/100,000) homicides during the same period. These cities attract the largest tourist participation from the U.S. (excluding Tijuana) in northwestern Sonora. San Carlos (pop. 4,500), the major destination of Desert Divers, had none during that same period. Reporting the murders in the border towns between U.S. and Mexico where drug cartel members are killing each other, Mexican police officers, and the border patrol thus making blanket inferences about Mexico is like reporting the violence in L.A. and inferring that it applies to all of the U.S.

As the Scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, and just relaxing on the beach season approaches it is important that we all really look at the numbers as it pertains to how safe travel into Sonora, Mexico and particularly San Carlos and Rocky Point really is. When you do the math Mexico is definitely as safe a place to visit as it has always been for tourists. If you are a prudent international traveler you will definitely find your trip to be safe and fun. Come join us for another summer of fun and adventure in San Carlos!

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Per the World Health Organization (WHO) – In this period of more frequent travel, there is no scientific reason to delay international travel to reduce spread of pandemic influenza infection. However, if you are ill it is prudent to delay travel.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT TRAVEL
27 November 2009

IS IT SAFE TO TRAVEL?
Yes. But if you are ill, it is prudent to delay travel.

WHO is not recommending travel restrictions related to pandemic (H1N1) 2009.

The pandemic influenza virus has already spread around the world. There is no scientific reason to delay international travel to reduce spread of infection. The global public health response now focuses on minimizing the impact of the virus through prevention measures, more equitable access to appropriate medical care, and help to countries as they prepare and implement their public health plans.

Scientific research based on mathematical modelling shows that restricting travel would be of limited or no benefit in stopping the spread of disease. Historical records of previous influenza pandemics, as well as experience with SARS, validate this.

Returning travellers who become ill should contact their health care provider.

DOES WHO RECOMMEND SCREENINGS AT COUNTRY ENTRY AND EXITS POINTS TO DETECT IF ILL PEOPLE ARE TRAVELLING?
No. WHO does not believe entry and exit screenings would work to reduce the spread of this disease. However country-level measures to respond to a public health risk are the decision of national authorities, under the International Health Regulations 2005.

Countries that adopt measures that significantly interfere with international traffic (e.g. delaying an airplane passenger for more than 24 hours, or refusing country entry or departure to a traveller) must provide WHO with the public health reasoning and evidence for their actions. WHO will follow up with all of its Member countries on such matters.

Travellers should always be treated with dignity and respect for their human rights.

HOW CAN I PROTECT MYSELF FROM PANDEMIC INFLUENZA WHEN I AM TRAVELLING?
Travellers can protect themselves and others by following simple prevention practices that apply while travelling and in daily life. Keep your distance from someone who is coughing and sneezing. Cover your coughs and sneezes. Wash your hands with soap and water, and avoid touching your eyes and mouth as much as possible. And again, do not travel if you are ill.

(updated from 7 May 2009 and 1 May 2009 versions)

AUGUST 2009
Mexico – Security

August 20, 2009

The Department of State has issued this Travel Alert to update security information for U.S. citizens traveling to and living in Mexico. It supersedes the Travel Alert for Mexico dated February 20, 2009, and expires on February 20, 2010.

While millions of U.S. citizens safely visit Mexico each year (including tens of thousands who cross the land border every day for study, tourism or business), violence in the country has increased. It is imperative that travelers understand the risks of travel to Mexico, how best to avoid dangerous situations, and who to contact if one becomes a crime victim. Common-sense precautions such as visiting only legitimate business and tourist areas during daylight hours, and avoiding areas where prostitution and drug dealing might occur, can help ensure that travel to Mexico is safe and enjoyable.

Recent violent attacks have caused the U.S. Embassy to urge U.S. citizens to delay unnecessary travel to parts of Michoacán and Chihuahua (see details below) and advise U.S. citizens residing or traveling in those areas to exercise extreme caution. Drug cartels and associated criminal elements have retaliated violently against individuals who speak out against them or whom they otherwise view to be a threat to their organization, regardless of the individuals’ citizenship. These attacks include the abduction and murder of two resident U.S. citizens in Chihuahua in July, 2009.

Violence Along the U.S. – Mexico Border
Mexican drug cartels are engaged in violent conflict – both among themselves and with Mexican security services – for control of narcotics trafficking routes along the U.S.-Mexico border. In order to combat violence, the government of Mexico has deployed military troops in various parts of the country. U.S. citizens should cooperate fully with official checkpoints when traveling on Mexican highways.

Some recent Mexican army and police confrontations with drug cartels have resembled small-unit combat, with cartels employing automatic weapons and grenades. Large firefights have taken place in towns and cities across Mexico, but occur mostly in northern Mexico, including Tijuana, Chihuahua City, Monterrey and Ciudad Juarez. During some of these incidents, U.S. citizens have been trapped and temporarily prevented from leaving the area. The U.S. Mission in Mexico currently restricts non-essential travel within the state of Durango, the northwest quadrant of Chihuahua and an area southeast of Ciudad Juarez, and all parts of the state of Coahuila south of Mexican Highways 25 and 22 and the Alamos River for US Government employees assigned to Mexico. This restriction was implemented in light of the recent increase in assaults, murders, and kidnappings in those three states. The situation in northern Mexico remains fluid; the location and timing of future armed engagements cannot be predicted.

A number of areas along the border are experiencing rapid growth in the rates of many types of crime. Robberies, homicides, petty thefts, and carjackings have all increased over the last year across Mexico generally, with notable spikes in Tijuana and northern Baja California. Ciudad Juarez, Tijuana and Nogales are among the cities which have experienced public shootouts during daylight hours in shopping centers and other public venues. Criminals have followed and harassed U.S. citizens traveling in their vehicles in border areas including Nuevo Laredo, Matamoros, and Tijuana.

The situation in the state of Chihuahua including Ciudad Juarez is of special concern. The U.S. Consulate General recommends that American citizens defer non-essential travel to the Guadalupe Bravo area southeast of Ciudad Juarez and to the northwest quarter of the state of Chihuahua including the city of Nuevo Casas Grandes and surrounding communities. From the United States, these areas are often reached through the Columbus, NM and Fabens and Fort Hancock, TX ports-of-entry. In both areas, American citizens have been victims of drug related violence.

Mexican authorities report that more than 1,000 people have been killed in Ciudad Juarez in the first six-months of 2009. Additionally, this city of 1.6 million people experienced more than 17,000 car thefts and 1,650 carjackings in 2008. U.S. citizens should pay close attention to their surroundings while traveling in Ciudad Juarez, avoid isolated locations during late night and early morning hours, and remain alert to news reports. Visa and other service seekers visiting the Consulate are encouraged to make arrangements to pay for those services using a non-cash method.

U.S. citizens are urged to be alert to safety and security concerns when visiting the border region. Criminals are armed with a wide array of sophisticated weapons. In some cases, assailants have worn full or partial police or military uniforms and have used vehicles that resemble police vehicles. While most crime victims are Mexican citizens, the uncertain security situation poses serious risks for U.S. citizens as well. U.S. citizen victims of crime in Mexico are urged to contact the consular section of the nearest U.S. consulate or Embassy for advice and assistance. Contact information is provided at the end of this message.

Crime and Violence Throughout Mexico
Although the greatest increase in violence has occurred on the Mexican side of the U.S. border, U.S. citizens traveling throughout Mexico should exercise caution in unfamiliar areas and be aware of their surroundings at all times. Bystanders have been injured or killed in violent attacks in cities across the country, demonstrating the heightened risk of violence in public places. In recent years, dozens of U.S. citizens living in Mexico have been kidnapped and most of their cases remain unsolved. U.S. citizens who believe they are being targeted for kidnapping or other crimes should notify Mexican officials, the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City, or the nearest American Consulate as soon as possible. Any U.S. visitor who suspects they are a target should consider returning to the United States immediately.

U.S. citizens should make every attempt to travel on main roads during daylight hours, particularly the toll (“cuota”) roads, which generally are more secure. When warranted, the U.S. Embassy and consulates advise their employees as well as private U.S. citizens to avoid certain areas, abstain from driving on certain roads because of dangerous conditions or criminal activity, or recommend driving during daylight hours only. When this happens, the Embassy or the affected consulate will alert the local U.S. citizen Warden network and post the information on their respective websites, indicating the nature of the concern and the expected time period for which the restriction will remain in place.

U.S. citizen visitors are encouraged to stay in the well-known tourist areas. Travelers should leave their itinerary with a friend or family member not traveling with them, avoid traveling alone, and check with their cellular provider prior to departure to confirm that their cell phone is capable of roaming on GSM or 3G international networks. Do not display expensive-looking jewelry, large amounts of money, or other valuable items.

Demonstrations and Large Public Gatherings
Demonstrations occur frequently throughout Mexico and usually are peaceful. However, even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate to violence unexpectedly. Violent demonstrations have resulted in deaths, including that of an American citizen in Oaxaca in 2006. In 2008, a Mexican Independence Day celebration was the target of a violent attack. During demonstrations or law enforcement operations, U.S. citizens are advised to remain in their homes or hotels, avoid large crowds, and avoid the downtown and surrounding areas. Since the timing and routes of scheduled marches and demonstrations are always subject to change, U.S. citizens should monitor local media sources for new developments and exercise extreme caution while within the vicinity of protests.

The Mexican Constitution prohibits political activities by foreigners, and such actions may result in detention and/or deportation. U.S. citizens are therefore advised to avoid participating in demonstrations or other activities that might be deemed political by Mexican authorities. As is always the case in any large gathering, U.S. citizens should remain alert to their surroundings.

Further Information
For more detailed information on staying safe in Mexico, please see the Mexico Country Specific Information. Information on security and travel to popular tourist destinations is also provided in the publication: “Spring Break in Mexico- Know Before You Go!!”

For the latest security information, U.S. citizens traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s internet web site at http://travel.state.gov/ where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada, or, for callers from Mexico, a regular toll line at 001-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). American citizens traveling or residing overseas are encouraged to register with the appropriate U.S. Embassy or Consulate on the State Department’s travel registration website at https://travelregistration.state.gov/.

For any emergencies involving U.S. citizens in Mexico, please contact the U.S. Embassy or the closest U.S. Consulate. The U.S. Embassy is located in Mexico City at Paseo de la Reforma 305, Colonia Cuauhtemoc, telephone from the United States: 011-52-55-5080-2000; telephone within Mexico City: 5080-2000; telephone long distance within Mexico 01-55-5080-2000. You may also contact the Embassy by e-mail at: ACSMexicoCity@state.gov The Embassy’s internet address is http://www.usembassy-mexico.gov/.

Consulates:
Ciudad Juarez: Paseo de la Victoria 3650, tel. (52)(656) 227-3000. http://ciudadjuarez.usconsulate.gov/.

Guadalajara: Progreso 175, telephone (52)(333) 268-2100. http://guadalajara.usconsulate.gov/.

Hermosillo: Avenida Monterrey 141, telephone (52)(662) 289-3500. http://hermosillo.usconsulate.gov/.

Matamoros: Avenida Primera 2002, telephone (52)(868) 812-4402. http://matamoros.usconsulate.gov/.

Merida: Calle 60 no. 338-K x 29 y 31, Col. Alcala Martin, Merida, Yucatan, Mexico 97050, telephone (52)(999) 942-5700 or 202-250-3711 (U.S. number). http://merida.usconsulate.gov/.

Monterrey: Avenida Constitucion 411 Poniente, telephone (52)(818) 047-3100. http://monterrey.usconsulate.gov/.

Nogales: Calle San Jose, Nogales, Sonora, telephone (52)(631) 311-8150. http://nogales.usconsulate.gov/.

Nuevo Laredo: Calle Allende 3330, col. Jardin, telephone (52)(867) 714-0512. http://nuevolaredo.usconsulate.gov/.

Tijuana: Tapachula 96, telephone (52)(664) 622-7400. http://tijuana.usconsulate.gov/service.html.

Consular Agencies:
Acapulco: Hotel Continental Emporio, Costera Miguel Aleman 121 – local 14, telephone (52)(744) 484-0300 or (52)(744) 469-0556.

Cabo San Lucas: Blvd. Marina local c-4, Plaza Nautica, col. Centro, telephone (52)(624) 143-3566.

Cancún: Plaza Caracol two, second level, no. 320-323, Boulevard Kukulcan, km. 8.5, Zona Hotelera, telephone (52)(998) 883-0272 or, from the U.S., 202-640-2511.

Ciudad Acuña: Closed until further notice.

Cozumel: Plaza Villa Mar en el Centro, Plaza Principal, (Parque Juárez between Melgar and 5th ave.) 2nd floor, locales #8 and 9, telephone (52)(987) 872-4574 or, from the U.S., 202-459-4661.

Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo: Hotel Fontan, Blvd. Ixtapa, telephone (52)(755) 553-2100.

Mazatlán: Playa Gaviotas #202, Zona Dorada, telephone (52)(669) 916-5889.

Oaxaca: Macedonio Alcalá no. 407, interior 20, telephone (52)(951) 514-3054 (52)(951) 516-2853.

Piedras Negras: Abasolo #211, Zona Centro, Piedras Negras, Coah., Tel. (878) 782-5586.

Playa del Carmen: “The Palapa,” Calle 1 Sur, between Avenida 15 and Avenida 20, telephone (52)(984) 873-0303 or, from the U.S., 202-370-6708.

Puerto Vallarta: Paradise Plaza, Paseo de los Cocoteros #1, Local #4, Interior #17, Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit, telephone (52)(322) 222-0069.

Reynosa: Calle Monterrey #390, Esq. Sinaloa, Colonia Rodríguez, telephone: (52)(899) 923 – 9331.

San Luis Potosí: Edificio “Las Terrazas”, Avenida Venustiano Carranza 2076-41, Col. Polanco, telephone: (52)(444) 811-7802/7803.

San Miguel de Allende: Dr. Hernandez Macias #72, telephone (52)(415) 152-2357 or (52)(415) 152-0068.

From Tucson:

Take Interstate 10 to Interstate 19.

Take I-19 south. You will pass Green Valley, Tubac, and Rio Rico.

Take Exit #4 “Border Truck Route 89 South” (an approx 60-minute trip).

Turn right onto Mariposa Road. Food, and bathrooms are available at Carl’s Junior. Reset your odometer to zero now.

When leaving Carl’s Jr., turn right on Mariposa Road and continue to the border – 2.5 miles.

Cross without stopping unless requested and proceed uphill on new toll road. Pay toll of 39 pesos (approx $3.70). Distance From Border = 8.0 miles

Drive through first checkpoint without stopping unless requested. A red light and buzzer means pull into parking area for inspection. They may ask you to get out of your car. Smile and be cooperative, they are nice people.

Proceed on toll road to “21K Checkpoint“. You will need to park in the parking lot go to the white building on the right and get your visa. You will need your passport to get your visa. Once you have your visa proceed to the lane with the red/green light “Nothing to declare”..

Drive to the Custom’s Inspection area where you will choose one of the following options: Declaration of merchandise to be imported OR Activation of the Fiscal Control Light. If you have no merchandise to declare, you will take the left line, where you will encounter another red light/green light. If you get a red light, you will have to stop your car and have it inspected. If you get a green light, or after the inspection, you may proceed to your destination.
This process takes about an hour. Please note that you MUST return your window sticker at the return both opposite this checkpoint (northbound) on your return trip.

Stay on main road marked “Cuota” (toll road). Pay 19 pesos (approx $1.80) toll outside the town of Magdalena. There are bathrooms and food here. This is Mexico Highway 15 to Santa Ana. Distance From Border = 43.0 miles

Continue south on Highway 15 to next toll station. Pay 58 pesos toll (approx $5.50). Distance From Border = 160.5 miles

Proceed south to Hermosillo. At the first Hermosillo stoplight turn LEFT. (There is a Pemex station on one corner and the old Sonora Motors Chevrolet dealership (now out of business) on the other.) Follow the road signs to Guaymas. Distance From Border = 160.9 miles

Follow surface streets through town. You will reach a second stoplight. Continue straight through the light. Pass a park, a dam, and prison. Shortly after the prison the road will fork. Stay right and proceed to stoplight. Distance From Border = 175.9 miles

Turn left at stoplight. (There is a Pemex station on the right corner, and San Sabastian Hotel the left corner.)You’re back on Highway 15. Proceed south to San Carlos.

Pass a large Pemex station in the center of divided highway. Distance From Border = 225.7 miles

Stay to the right. Take the San Carlos turn-off to the right. Distance From Border = 249.3 miles

Red brick road into town is lined with palm trees. The speed limit is enforced for the last 15-20 miles even if the bricks don’t slow you down. Distance From Border = 252.6 miles

You’re here!

Welcome to San Carlos – you made it! Prepare for a great vacation experience!

Mexico is in a unique position to reap many of the benefits of the decline of the US economy.

In order to not violate NAFTA and other agreements the U.S.A. cannot use direct protectionism, so it is content to allow the media to play this protectionist role.

The U.S. media – over the last year – has portrayed Mexico as being on the brink of economic collapse and civil war. The Mexican people are either beheaded, kidnapped, poor, corrupt, or narco-traffickers. The American news media was particularly aggressive in the weeks leading up to spring break. The main reason for this is money. During that two-week period, over 120,000 young American citizens poured into Mexico and left behind hundreds of millions of dollars.

Let’s look at the reality of the massive drug and corruption problem, kidnappings, murders and money. The U.S. Secretary of State Clinton was clear in her honest assessment of the problem. “Our insatiable demand for illegal drugs fuels the drug trade. Our inability to prevent the weapons from being illegally smuggled across the border to arm these criminals causes the deaths of police officers, soldiers and civilians,” Clinton said. The other large illegal business that is smuggled into the U.S.A. that no one likes to talk about is Human Traffic for prostitution. This “business” is globally now competing with drugs in terms of profits. It is critical to understand, however that the horrific violence in Mexico is over 95% confined to the three transshipping cities for these two businesses, Tijuana, Nogales, and Juarez. The Mexican government is so serious about fighting this, that they have committed over 30,000 soldiers to these borders towns. There was a thoughtful article written by a professor at the University of Juarez. He was reminded of the Prohibition years in the U.S.A. and compared Juarez to Chicago when Al Capone was conducting his reign of terror capped off with The Saint Valentine’s Day Massacre. During these years, just like Juarez today, 99% of the citizens went about their daily lives and attended classes, went to the movies, restaurants, and parks.

Is there corruption in Mexico? YES !!! Is there an equal amount of corruption related to this business in the U.S.A.? YES !!!. When you have a pair of illegal businesses that generate over $300,000,000,000 in sales you will find massive corruption. Make no mistake about the Mexican Drug Cartel; these “businessmen” are 100 times more sophisticated than the bumbling bootleggers during Prohibition. They form profitable alliances all over the U.S.A. They do cost benefit analysis of their business much better than the US automobile industry. They have found over the years that the cost of bribing U.S. and Mexican Border Guards and the transportation costs of moving marijuana from Sinaloa to California have cut significantly into profits. That is why over the past 5-7 years they have been growing marijuana in State and Federal Parks and BLM land all across America. From a business standpoint, this is a tremendous cost savings on several levels. Let’s look at California as an example as one of the largest consumers. When you have $14.2 billion of Marijuana grown and consumed in one state, there is savings on transportation, less loss of product due to confiscation and an overall reduction cost of bribery with law enforcement and parks service people. Another great savings is the benefit to their employees. The penalties in Mexico for growing range from 5-15 years. The penalties in California, on average are 18 months, and out in 8 months. The same economic principles are now being applied to the methamphetamine factories.

FOX News continues to scare people with its focus on kidnapping. There are kidnappings in Mexico. The concentration of kidnappings has been in Mexico City, among the very rich and the three aforementioned border Cities. With the exception of Mexico City, the number one city for kidnappings among NAFTA countries is Phoenix, Arizona with over 359 in 2008. The Phoenix Police estimate that twice that number of kidnappings goes unreported, because like Mexico 99% of these crimes were directly related to drug and human traffic. Phoenix, unfortunately, is geographically profitable transshipping location. Mexicans, just like 99% of U.S. Citizens during prohibition, go about their daily lives all over the country. They get up, go to school or work and live their lives untouched by the border town violence.

These same protectionist news sources have misled the public as to the real danger from the swine flu in Mexico and temporary devastated the tourism business. As of May 27 2009, there have been 87 deaths in Mexico from the swine flu. During those same five months there have been 36 murdered school children in Chicago. The “news sources” in the USA have a lack of integrity. By their logic, if 87 deaths from the swine flu in Mexico warrants canceling flights and cruise ships to Mexico, then close all roads and highways in the USA because of record 43,359 automobile related deaths in the USA in 2008.

What is just getting underway is what many are calling the “Largest southern migration to Mexico of people and real estate assets since the Civil War” A significant percentage of the Baby Boomers have been doing the research and are making the life changing decision to move out of the U.S.A. The number one retirement destination in the world is Mexico. There are already over 2,000,000 US and Canadian property owners in Mexico. The most conservative number of American and Canadian Baby Boomers who are on their way to owning property in Mexico for full or part time living in the next 15 years is over 6,000,000. Do the math on 6,000,000 people buying a $300,000 house or condo and you will understand why the U.S. Government is trying to tax this massive shift of money to Mexico through H.R. 3056. The U.S. government calls this “The Tax Collection Responsibility Act of 2007”. Those who will have to pay it are calling this the EXIT TAX.

Mexico: A better economic choice than China
Another large exodus from the U.S.A is high paying skilled jobs. The job shift in automobile sector, both car and parts manufacturing, is already known by most investors. In the last few months as John Deere and Caterpillar have been laying off thousands of workers in the U.S.A., and hiring equal numbers in Mexico. The most recent industry that is making the shift is the aerospace manufacturers. In the city of Zacatecas there is currently a $210 million aerospace facility being built. With the 11 U.S. companies moving there, it is estimated to provide over 200,000 new high paying jobs in the coming years. One of the main factors for the shift in job south to Mexico instead of China is realistic analysis of total production, labor and delivery costs. While the labor costs in China are 40% less on average, the overall transportation costs and inherent risks of a long distance supply chain, and quality control issues, gives Mexico a distinct financial advantage.

Mexico’s real economic future
Mexico has avoided completely the subprime problem that has devastated the U.S. banking industry. The Mexican banks are healthy and profitable. Mexico has a growing and very healthy middle and upper middle class. The very recent introduction of residential financing has Mexico in a unique position of having over 90% of current homeowners owning their house outright. U.S. banks are competing for the Mexican, Canadian and American cross border loan business. It is and will continue to be a very safe and very profitable business. These same banks that were loaning in a reckless manner have learned their lesson and are loaning here the old fashioned way. They require a minimum of a 680 credit score, 30% down payment, and verifiable income that can support the loan. In most areas of Mexico where Baby Boomers are moving to, with the exception of Puerto Penasco (which did not have a national and international base of buyers), there is no real estate bubble. The higher end markets ($2-20 million) in many of these destinations are going through a modest correction. The Baby Boomers market here is between $200,000 and $600,000. With the continuing demand inside the Bay of Banderas, that price point, in the coming years, will disappear. This is the reason the Mexican government is spending billions of dollars on more infrastructure north along the coast all the way up to Mazatlan.The other major area where America has become overpriced is in the field of health care. This massive shift of revenues is estimated to add 5-7% to Mexico’s GDP. The name for this “business” is Medical Tourism. The two biggest competitors for Mexico were Thailand and India. Thailand and India’s biggest drawback is geography. Also recent events, Thailand’s inability to keep a government in place and the recent terrorist attack in Mumbai, have helped Mexico capture close to half of this growth industry. In Mexico today there are over 56 world class hospitals being built to keep up with this business.Mexico is currently sitting on a cash surplus and an almost balanced budget. Most Americans have never heard of Carlos Slim until he loaned the New York Times $250 million. After that it became clear to many investors around the world what Mexicans already knew: that Mexico had been able to avoid the worst of the U.S. economic devastation. Mexico’s resilience is to be admired. When the U.S. Federal Reserve granted a $30 billion loan to each of the following countries Mexico, Singapore, South Korea, and Brazil, Mexico reinvested the money in Treasury bonds in an account in New York City.According to oil traders, Mexico’s Pemex wisely as the price of oil shot to $147 a barrel put in place an investment strategy that hinged on oil trading in the range of $38-$60 a barrel. Since the beginning of 2009 Mexico has been collecting revenues on hedged positions that give them $90-$110 per barrel today. Mexico’s recent and under reported oil discovery in the Palaeo Channels of Chicontepec has placed it third in the world for oil reserves, right behind Canada and Saudi Arabia.The following is a quote from Rosalind Wilson, President of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce on March 19, 2009. “The strength of the Mexican economic system makes the country a favorite destination for Canadian investment”.

Is Mexico safer than America? In this edition of Mexico Living we look beyond the headlines for the truth.

Every page is filled with the information you need to live, vacation, work or play in Northwest Mexico, with sections on Rosarito Beach & Ensenada, San Felipe and Puerto Penasco (Rocky Point).

IS MEXICO SAFER THAN AMERICA?
It was among the most brutal homicides in recent memory. On a sunny Sunday afternoon last fall, two men jumped out of an SUV and set Marcial Sanchez on fire. The 52-year-old factory worker was engulfed in flames and burned over 70% of his body. He died hours later at a hospital. No one who saw Sanchez’s killing reported it to police. [1]

If you were to read this, would you think twice about planning a vacation to that city? Unfortunately, these are the stories filling the pages of newspapers across America.

It isn’t just in major cities in the U.S. that recent spates of violence, often attributed to teens and young adults, have sparked concern. A top official has warned parents to find out whether their children are carrying knives, after attacks killed 14 teens so far this year, including an 18-year-old actor. There have been at least 28 teen murders throughout the country in 2008.

Does this sound like a country you would want to take your teenagers to or a place you let them go for Spring Break? Probably not. But what if you knew the first headline refers to an event in East Los Angeles and the second, to a trend in England?

Of course, anyone planning a vacation or contemplating a move weighs many factors when deciding where to go. Travelers want to feel safe. How can anyone really know whether they will be safe in another city or country?

Take the example of Mexico. There have been many sensational headlines published about the murders and kidnappings in Tijuana. It is true that there are drug cartels in Mexico, known police corruption, and a great deal of violence surrounding the drug trade. However, confrontations tend to occur outside of resort and tourist areas; even in places close to Tijuana such as Rosarito, very rarely experience violent crime. Many Mexicans, as well as Americans living in Mexico, believe that the reports of violence are over-stated, causing more fear among potential travelers than is necessary.

“The recent media trend seems to be to link any crime or police action to the entire country, which is similar to having an incident in Los Angeles reflect on the entire United States,” says Ron Raposa, the international public relations representative for Rosarito Beach. He adds, “The coverage varies some from media outlet to media outlet. But in general, the U.S. media in recent months has presented coverage of Baja California and Mexico that lacks perspective, balance and sometimes accuracy.”

IS MEXICO SAFER THAN USA?
The U.S. State Department put out a warning about the violence in Mexico. The report states that 128 Americans were killed in Mexico between January 2005 and December 2007.

Looking more closely at the data, Rosarito Beach, Ensenada, Mexicali, San Felipe, Tecate and Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point) only had 42 homicides in the last three years combined. Those are the largest tourist areas of Northwest Mexico, excluding Tijuana. In Los Angeles County, there have been 103 murders in the last six months. In 2007, there were 324 homicides in L.A. County. People in Los Angeles would probably say that there are certain unsafe areas to avoid. People living in Mexico would say the same thing.

More detailed statistics indicate that he murder rate per 100,000 people in Mexico is about 13. Recent FBI statistics show the murder rate in Baltimore is 43.3, Washington DC is 29.1, and Detroit is 47.3. Surprisingly, the murder rate per 100,000 in New York is now 6.1 as crime diminished significantly during the administrations of New York Mayors Rudolph Giuliani and Michael Bloomberg.

The Mexican government, federal and local, looks at crime and the drug trade seriously, and is taking major steps to stop violence and end corruption. President Felipe Calderon has sent federal troops to help local and state police crack down on crime and the drug cartels. Part of the problem is police corruption, which Calderon has addressed head on. Last year, all of the police officers in Tijuana had their guns tested and federal troops patrolled the city. After weapon testing and other screenings, such as lie detector tests, the better police officers returned to their jobs. The same type of screenings occurred in Rosarito.

In recent months, in Sonora, Mexico, two reporters were abducted and killed because of investigations into the cartel. On the day of the second abduction, the federal authorities arrested 100 policemen suspected of corruption and working with organized crime.

Bad press is having a negative impact on SCORE, Baja’s staple off-road racing series. Sal Fish of SCORE International has been shopping for Mexico races in the state of Sonora and Sonora is pulling out all the stops to have off-road racing in its state. Baja California racing is seriously on the ropes, with racers bailing on the SCORE series and ever-increasing public reports of organized crime in Baja California, Mexico.

Raposa explained, ‘Baja has brought some of the problems on itself. Police extortion of motorists in some areas went uncorrected for far too long. Corrupt and corrupting criminal cartels wielded pervasive influence along the drug routes leading into the United States. But, now Mexican federal, state and city governments have joined together in a serious effort to end that. This has led to shootouts that, while not affecting visitors, U.S. media often links to tourist safety. They are separate issues.”

Rosarito Beach has done much to make tourists safe. Raposa describes the first step in Mayor Hugo Torres attempt to create a clean police force. After extensive screening Rosarito has replaced 40 of its 150-member police force and has also created a special tourist police force. Twenty of its best officers are assigned to patrol tourist areas, offering both protection and assistance. An ombudsman office and tourist assistance office have been created. In addition, 300 residents have volunteered for a citizen-watch program in tourist areas, Raposa says.

Raposa has spent a lot of time in Rosarito, which he recommends as a vacation destination. He says, “I have been visiting here for 30 years and lived here full-time for three, all crime-free. I would say it is comparable to any major tourist area in the U.S. in regards to the safety (of) visitors.”

He adds, “Use common sense and be alert as you would in any area with which you were unfamiliar. Avoid situations and areas that seem to present increased risk. Both the state and Rosarito tourism offices have websites with extensive safety tips and other valuable information.”

Tourism in Baja during Spring Break may have decreased somewhat this year, but it seems to be improving. Says Raposa, “There has been a gradual rebound as people realize that Rosarito is not a dangerous place to visit.” The main affected cities of Rosarito, Tijuana and Ensenada are working together on tourism and safety.

On the other side of Baja, San Felipe is trying to deal successfully with the reports of violence affecting tourism. Mayor Hazael Sierra says, “I believe the bad image has been the cause of many tourists not coming to visit us, but when they do, they go home with a really good impression.” The Mayor says his city is working on, “Cleanliness, security, and organization of local events.” He adds, “I believe that there is still a lot to do, but we are beginning and I believe that this is all going to get better.”

Traveling South of the border is no different than visiting other foreign destinations and tourists rarely encounter dangers if they follow the law in Mexico.

Travelers to Baja needing help or advice are encouraged to take advantage of the assistance available. Dialing 078 from any phone in Mexico will immediately connect the caller with the Department of Tourism toll-free. You can also visit the website for more information at: http://www.discoverbajacalifornia.com

[1] Quote from Los Angeles Times, March 17, 2008 on LA Gang Violence.

Travel Alerts, Passport Information and More
http://travel.state.gov

Travel Registration
https://travelregistration.state.gov

Customs and Border Patrol
Operations Center (calling from Mexico): 001-520-375-5785

Border Wait Times
http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/wait_times

Know Before You Go
http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/vacation/kbyg

SENTRI Pass Information
http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/trusted_traveler/sentri

Green Angels – Roadside Assistance in Mexico
http://www.gotosonora.com/green-angels.htm
If you have an emergency while driving, call the Sonora Tourism Office’s new hotline @ 078.

Hyperbaric Chamber – In Hermosillo
Centro de Medicina Hiperbárica de Hermosillo
Periférico Norte #645 casi Esq. con Olivares
Hermosillo, Sonora Mexico
Tel. (662) 217-0945 & (662) 212-0330
Resp: Sergio Girón Rosas
Cell (662) 146-0383
San Carlos – Emergency Phone Numbers

Rescate: (622) 226-0911

Rescue: (622) 226-0158

Port’s captain: (622) 222-2525

Police: (622) 226-1400

Ambulance: (622) 226-0101