Reply #34: I did leave out the limited access to Playas.

[silverweb]

And I agree that it is probably a major reason life here is quiet.

I also have been to Mesa de Otay and decided some time ago I didn't care much for it, so I haven't been back in a couple of years; not that I have any reason to go there, anyway.

As for SEMEFO running out of refrigerator space, I believe its capacity was somewhat less than 100, which isn't all that much in a sprawling city with a population approaching 1.5 million, so I don't consider that a very big deal.

I also go into Centro on a regular basis and walk there without fear, enjoying the Mercado Hidalgo, the people, and the general color of the city.

Don't get me wrong; I know that the violence is real and that caution is needed. I especially agree that the ill-conceived "war on drugs" is a major cause of the situation. When my instincts tell me a certain person looks like bad news, I know how to act and avoid that person.

What I don't agree with is that the level of fear being broadcast in response to the travel advisory is justified outside of certain risky areas and behaviors.