Got down to Mexico yesterday afternoon for my anual RR. Didnt hit LCDH yet, it was raining, so we just stayed in the hotel and drank and drank. Some big changes for Mexico NO SMOKING inside and outside of most of the hotels. Last year I could take a stick just about anywhere.

Avid Flyer,

What's the consensus re the threat to tourists by various robbers and such? In the papers, they really play up the "Americans getting robbed" angle, but what did you hear, anything good or bad? I don't know how objective or truthful those reports are, and many times sensationalism is the order of the day. As for me, haven't been in a while, not due to any crime issues, just haven't had the chance to visit lately.

I'm living in Mexico, but there are at least three different Mexicos and probably four. There's Northern Mexico, Central Mexico, and the Yucatan. All have different cultures and levels of safety. Northern Mexico is probably the most dangerous right now, but I wouldn't stay away from it. There is more crime in the North as far as I can tell due to the trafficing of drugs and stolen goods from the US. If you're not going places and doing things you shouldn't be doing you will be ok. Central Mexico is having some issues right now with drug cartels but citizens are still enjoying their safety and crime is not rampant. I don't know much about the Yucatan, but would guess its pretty safe and clear right now. There have been issues with guerilla type operations in the past, but I'm pretty sure its as safe as anywhere else in our world.

Thanks Burnie,

You are absolutely right, I should have elaborated regarding where in Mexico. I was speaking more toward Baja California and Cabo San Lucas, those two areas. I used to annually visit Tijuana and Rosarito, to grab a good bite and smoke some good cigars. Haven't lately, again, not due to crime fears, but just haven't had occasion. And you are also spot on re not doing things that place you into a high-risk category. I obey the rules down there, don't carry on or become a drunken nuisance with the police, don't smuggle any illegal stuff, and am a typical tourist.

Actually I’ve never had any problems in any part of Mexico. (Knock on wood) I think it goes with the use your head concept. Don’t walk down a dark alley in the middle of the night with your good watch on; I did get to the LCDH last night for some cocktails. Bought a Monte LE sublime, a huge Partagas Italy RE about 10 inches long and of course a edmoundo donte 109.

Thanks Avid Flyer,

I think Burnie's advice holds true, not to place one's self into compromising positions and be aware of your surroundings. Hey, that advice kind of works in the US too, I guess. Take care, enjoy your sticks! WB

quote:

I don't know much about the Yucatan, but would guess its pretty safe and clear right now. There have been issues with guerilla type operations in the past, but I'm pretty sure its as safe as anywhere else in our world.

I was there this summer for quite a while had a great time there.
Check out Mercer Cigars great place.

a little common sense goes a long way.

I'm headed to Quintana Roo, Mexico (25 miles north of Cancun) next year. Is anyone familiar with the area? Will I have the opportunity to purchase some quality smokes? Where?

There is a LCDH in Cancun right in the middle of the Hotel Zone. Outside of the fanciest hotels (and that is still a risk) I wouldn't recommend any other place for Cubans. Mexican cigars are everywhere.

David runs a clean shop- stop by and have one of Jorges great mojitos