Safe to travel?

[melanie031]

My hubby and I are/were planning to stay in Guanajuato for the next 3 months. However, I have just been reading about the burnings as close as Leon within the past few days, as well as the kidnapping ring that was just arrested in Leon (which I guess is a positive thing?) and I'm wondering if this is a good time to be a traveling Gringo :)

I have read forums on tripadvisor who have said that they've driven from Dallas to SMA many times and been fine. However, I'd like to hear from people who are actually living in Guanajuato. If your children (or the people you love most) were thinking of going to the area, would you say it's a good time, or to wait until things cool off a little?

Thank you for your input!

Melanie :)

[Lisa Andrews]

I live and work here and everything has been fine, I was even in Puerto Vallarta (Jalisco state) when there were a few of the bank fires, but they were done on a public holiday when no one was in the banks. Only problem was a police blockade made to slow/stop traffic, when I last checked there were no tourists or visitors targeted and the problem was between the police/army/navy and the cartels.

I have travelled to most towns within 2hours on Guanajuato in the last 6 months and never had any problems, I do have Mexican plates and only travel during the day time but I think you would have to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. I'm not one for cancelling plans on the off chance that something might happen, I think just take normal precautions, go on toll roads, travelling during the day, not hanging out with the drug cartels etc.

:)

[melanie031]

Thank you Lisa! I figured that was the case, but I just wanted some extra reassurance. I really appreciate the time you took to reply!

Melanie :)

[jesm]

Hi. Please do come.
We are now 4 year permanent residents of GTO, following our initial 4 years living in Sonora. Ease your mind, this place is safe. Only two weeks ago we drove (500 miles) to McAllen, Tx, directly thru "dreaded" Reynosa with no issue, zero. Leon seems like a different planet from GTO. It is a very big city with all that entails. We have petty crime yes, folks everywhere steal, but as far as personal safety, it is simply not a factor in living here. Because it is the state capital, but more so its special historical, nearly mythical and mystical, significance to all Mexicans the city is well, well policed. Tourism helps fuel the economy here so tourists are prized and their enjoyment protected. Both our daughters and grandsons ages 11 and 8 visit and we all move freely around the city and surroundings, walking in the daylight, driving or cabbing after dark. It is a magical place to enjoy. Don't let fear deprive you of seeng it.