by Brent » Thu Mar 24, 2011 1:50 am
Wow i think it's actually been a few years since i've been on this board... glad to see it's still here.. anyhow i was reading through this travel discussion thread + saw your post.
Juarez right now has finally taken the cake as being worse than tijuana at 4am on a sat. night. Keep in mind back in the day 4am in tijuana on a sat. night could be one hell of a good time, but in this case it's really more of the part where you really have to watch what you're asked/what you answer (better not to answer than to give an answer to what you 'thought u heard')...obviously don't be that dumb idiot openly looking to score drugs (OF ANY KIND... don't just think because its pot it's not going to immediately remind folks you have cash on hand). Pretty much same as anywhere else.. don't use open atms (walk into the damn bank)...honestly (and i'm sure someone will argue this one) i've always made it a rule of thumb never to give to beggers and/or the children vendors (Chicklits?! lol)..that being because i've seen their parents (who were watching) then decide you're now a person of interest. Had a close encounter in mexicali when i was in HS that was a result of just that. With juarez you need to also understand that if you're in a car, whether rental or your own, and happen to make a long vacation out of your trip. You better either have a good reason for it, be pretty well versed in spanish..mainly the good ol' mexi slang, or just pay no attention to any cars that might be following you after your first two weeks....they'll eventually go away once they realize you're not there for 'ulterior motives.'
Ohh, and if someone brings up (usually this'll be at a bar, over a beer on the street, etc..) that if you didn't have a problem bringing back some arms on your next trip if the price was 'worth it' (and actually it somewhat is.. i've heard everything from $2k all the way up to 8k for either a full auto ak or one with a conversion kit). Just tell them you'll think about it... that'll even prob get you another free beer.
Ok, after that mini rant, i have to add that you really don't have anything to fear about juarez. Just like anywhere else, don't be dumb. It's a great town, great people (well, at least the half of the towns inhabitants who aren't only there looking for coyotes are great) and so much to do/see/photograph, etc.. Very relaxing. There's actually a pretty famous yoga/spa down there which was founded in the late 60s.. if you're interested PM me (so i'll get it via email) and i'll try to look it up for you.
cheers
-b