Experiences in Mexico

In light of this first assignment, I need to make a deal with you.  In exchange for my candid comments that expose some possibly non-politically correct viewpoints, I ask that you cut me some slack, and keep in mind I have enrolled in a class that will help me better understand cultures I know very little about.  My current views are based almost exclusively on modern political issues in Mexico, and how they impact the US and me personally.

The only central or south American country I have visited is Mexico: once in 2006, and again in 2011.  The 2006 trip to the Yucatan peninsula was purely for pleasure, and I did the typical tourist things:  all inclusive Cancun resort, day trip to Tulum and Ixtapa, and a brief stay on Isla Mujeres, complete with the requisite Montezuma's Revenge upon return home.  I have the token pictures of beautiful beaches and palm trees, me with an awful hangover, huge iguanas, and ancient ruins 

2011 was slightly more interesting.  I was in Baja on official business to work with state and national agencies on the management of Mexico's national parks.  Part of the trip included a stay in Sierra San Pedro Martir National Park (not sure if I'm getting that name correct anymore), where I was able to evaluate their fire management program, see one of the national observatories, and witness condors perched in trees right over my head.  (There is a condor recovery program stationed there that works with a program in southern California).

Going into the trip, I had serious concerns about my safety.  Should I carry my red diplomatic passport, or should I remain incognito and take my blue personal passport?  Was it even safe for travel?  I was assured by multiple sources that is was safe, and so I went.  However, I found out the week I got back that heads had been dumped on the same road I had just traveled.  Employees at the Park kept illegal Brazilian fighting dogs for their safety, due to some activities that regularly occurred in the valley below- the valley I drove through to get there.  I met Mexicans who had left their homes in other parts of the country to move to Baja where it was safer.  Then there were the "police" checkpoints....  Overall I had a rewarding, and yes- safe, trip.  But the heavy effects of violence on the country could not be ignored.

So here comes my answer that could get me slammed.  What do I think of when I think of Mexico?
1)  Out of control violence.
2)  Burdensome illegal immigration into the US to escape a weak economy and unsafe living conditions.

I'm hoping to learn a more positive side of these cultures, and I'm sure I will.   

And a happier one:
3)  I remember a malachite carving in a roadside souvenir shop that referenced some ancient gods.  I kick myself for passing it up, because I love native stone and admired the artistry it took to do such an intricate carving in a fragile stone.  I am interested to learn more about how native materials worked their way into art historically.

 -B