Below are comments received by MVA.
To protect the privacy of the individuals that submitted these
comments, MVA has removed their last names.
Name: Pamela
August 21, 2010
Message: Thank you for this site. I was doing my research about Mexico but I do not want to put my family at risk in an area not prepared for emergencies of any kind. My heart goes out to those who have suffered and shared their stories and my prayers as well.
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Name: Gabrielle
July 12, 2010
Message: Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful message - It is incredibly gracious of you given the great tragedy your family suffered. I am so terribly sorry that your handsome, well educated and friendly looking son was taken away from you in such a senseless way at the beginning of his adult journey. I pray that God comforts and blesses you and your family in an ongoing way and that the peace of God that passes all understanding breathes healing winds into your family.
I was feeling very conflicted about Mexico as the actual statistics do not sound that bad and our son is studying Spanish but it sounds like the Mexican authorities skew the stats by falsely representing how tourists have died if they get reported at all. It is frightening that even the tourist town newspapers and police play along with the fantasy reports. I was awake last night with a strong feeling that it would not be wise to take the kids to Mexico even though Oaxaca sounds very beautiful and cultural with Mayan ruins and a colonial town.
Your email confirms to me that it is not a good choice at this time and I am looking into changing our travel plans to Costa Rica.
I thank you again for your kindness in reaching out to others and warning them of safety risks for tourists vacationing in Mexico - even at the upscale resorts.
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Name: Venessa
July 11, 2010
Message: i can't believe these stories that i am reading! i am horrified! my fiance and i are not sure what to do now. we are getting married in october, and it is a same sex marriage. my parents are paying for the wedding, and her parents are paying for the honeymoon. they have booked an all inclusive stay at the excellence resort and spa in the riviera maya in cancun. should we not go and have them loose out on their money?!?! i am scared since we are 2 beautiful women who will be traveling alone. HELP!
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Name: Andrea
June 8, 2010
Message: My husband and I were planning on a vacation to one of Mexico's resorts next year but after reading your site, we will not be going. It seems that if the violent crime doesn't kill you, the bribery, corruption or total lack of adequate of health care will. Scary, scary stuff.
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Name: Meg
June 3, 2010
Message: Advice wanted please. I booked a 4 night trip to Club Med Cancun for myself and my 9 year old daughter. I have never left the country before. After reading your website, I am afraid to go, especially since I will be alone with my daughter and there is no one to go with us. I do not have large sums of cash to buy our way out of any emergency. We are supposed to leave Mon. 6/11 and I don't know what to do. I am not a fearful person, but now am very apprehensive. Should I go? I have learned from your website and others to beware of the ocean, and will not be using any taxis other than the resort arranged transport. I am really disturbed that it may not even be safe for me to be on the beach alone while my daughter is doing kid's club activities. Any advice you have would be appreciated
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Name: Maria
May 24,
Message: My heartfelt prayers to all for untimely loss!
THE CORRUPTION IN MEXICO, outweigh the so-call wonderful culture and people! DO NOT VACATION in this forsaken hellhole of a country!
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Name: Charles
May 3, 2010
Message:
Thank you for this wonderful venue. I cannot begin to tell you
how shocked I was to see how many people in the prime of their
life needlessly died. The site allows the survivors to tell
their story. Hopefully some good will result from our sorrowful
endeavor.
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Name: Ernie
April 30, 2010
Message: I am so sorry for all of
the tragedies, and the loss of loved ones. I bought a 10 yr
vacation plan, we have used 3 of our trips and we have 7 left,
and we do not want to go to Mexico. Our resort is beautiful and
very accommodating however we still do not want to ever go to
Mexico again it is unsafe, and very expensive not like it used
to be. It looks like I am out several thousand dollars as if I
do not book a trip every yr. I loose it..and I know of no other
way to recoup my money...again I am sorry for your loss.
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Name: Anonymous
April 9, 2010
Message: I am a mexican girl, and
I'm very sorry to know all the stories. Regarding the number of
tourist that visit mexico every year, this cases would be very
few BUT if you have the bad luck of beeing in one of those
situations, you are right, you are in great danger of not
receiving propper medical atention and is even worst if you have
to deal with the mexican authorities who are very corrupted. I
live in Mexico and receiving a fair trate from authoriethies is
almost like winning lottery. I hope that if authoriethies
doesn't listen to us, the mexicans, they start listening
foreigners though is sad it would be only because they are
afraid that their dollars go away. At the moment, my family and
I are being extorsionated by mexican goverment and authoriethies,
we are living in hell, fighting against a monster. I share your
pain for your loved ones, and your frustation of dealing with
Mexico authorithies. Please don`t make public my NAME and
LASTNAME, because i am afraid t hey would be even more unffair
than now with us if the authoriethies find out Italked about
them with you. I hope we all can find peace someday. Best
Regards
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Name: Leslie
March 25, 2010
Message:
San Miguel De Allende Mexico Is in the middle of the state of
Guanajuato.....Crime is a natural occurance...Reverse
discrimination based on the color of your skin. I bring a good
heart and mind with me....I can no longer continue making
lemonades!!!! Goods and services....No Better business Bureau or
Police protection for Americans Rights in Mexico...Now, How are
we In the US going to deal?
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Name: Anonymous
March 1, 2010
Message: I lived in Tampico, Tamaulipas Mexico for about 5 years in the late 80,s. I’ve been to over 60 countries in my life and Tampico is just about the most corrupt of them all. I have friends still there and they report to me that the Tampico traffic cops (transito's) are still robbing people all day long. They haven’t changed yet. I wouldn’t live there if someone gave me a mansion to live in for free.
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Name: Fred
February 14, 2009
Message: How sad all these needless deaths are my sympathy to the families. My wife and I have traveled to Mexico eight times now, and yes you are correct people need to be aware that Mexico is not the US. People need to research their vacations, be responsible for themselves, (maybe hard for some used to the gov't making all their decisions for them) use due caution and pay attention when traveling anywhere, especially outside the US. Excessive alcohol intake should be avoided also. FYI something new for this year from the Akumal CEA Lionfish are becoming more numerous along the coast of Riviera Maya (main danger poison fins) watch where you walk and while snorkeling don’t touch fish, of course these two hints are common sense.
Happy Travels,
Prayers for the families.
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Name: P. S. Beecher
December 15, 2009
Message: I was the individual who reported a problem with the Oasis Cancun on trip advisor, this month. My comment is that I have traveled to Mexico, alone, as a single female, numerous times without problem. People need to understand that Mexico is not North America. This country is dangerous for its own people as well. People should realize this before they elect to travel there. It is also a country full of wonderful people and wonderful culture. despite my experience in November I am going back at the end of the month, alone. My sympathies for the individuals represented on this site, but I think it is ethnocentric to expect the same social, legal, and cultural experience when you step outside the borders of your home country.
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Name: Ron
December 5, 2009
Message: I am a private investigator who has done many cases in Mexico. We also do executive protection. I can tell you one thing. the tourist areas are the worst as far as accidents and crimes. The Mexican Police are very corrupt.
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Name: Alyson
November 5, 2009
Message: I just found this website by mistake and thank god I did. Firstly my deepest condolences goes out to everyone who lost a loved one. I have been invited to stay with a pen pal in Michoacán, Nayarit next summer. I recently asked her about the kidnappings, safety/dangers and she laughed and said I was worrying over nothing but I've read too many negative stories in this last 10 minutes to convince me otherwise. I think I'll go elsewhere next Summer.
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Name: Samantha
October 9, 2009
Message: God bless your families. The video made me cry. Thanks for the awareness.
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Name: Matthew
October 22, 2009
Message: Hello, my name is Matthew and I am set to complete my field study in the Yucatan next summer in 2010. I have read the tragic stories here on your site and my heart goes out to you all. I have been searching for safety info on the Yucatan but I haven’t turned up much. Do you have any information and what are your thoughts on safety in the Yucatan. This trip will be with my college, students/professors. I am a 34 year old male. Thank you so much for your time and for the website.
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Name: Anonymous
September 16, 2009
Message: I feel saddened by the loss of all these people that I’ve read their stories on. yes its true, Mexico has turned into corrupt place, but it is not the only place people have been injured in or have died in. some of these deaths have been accidental. Travelers should be careful anywhere they travel. in 2005 I vacationed in Jamaica and my friend, her older sister and myself fell off the banana boat into the ocean. My friends sister injured herself fracturing her clavicle, the staff in our hotel were not much help and would not assist us. the night before we were assaulted and if it wasn't for one of the locals, I don't know what would have happened to us. What my point is, is that Mexico should not be the only country to blame. Maybe this website should be changed to vacation awareness only instead of just attacking one country. That’s my personal opinion. I respect what you’re doing with this website and I encourage you to continue spreading the word, but it would be nice if you included all the places people travel to and not just pin point one.
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Name: SHAWN
August 15, 2009
Message: Our daughter, age 21, is planning to travel to Mexico (Mexico City and points south)in September, for 6 weeks. She plans to travel alone, back-packing and using what she calls "1st class public transportation." My wife and I have provided her with information about the dangers, but have been unable to convince her that this trip is ill advised. Any thoughts or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you,
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Name: Kathryn
Date: 9/13/09
Message: Dear Ms. Webster (please forgive me if I'm mistaken on this), I'd like to offer my condolences on your terrible loss, and those of the other families. I've been living in Mexico for 3 months with my young son, and have already experienced a pool with dangerous suction, that caused me pain, and would definitely have trapped my son's hand or foot. My boyfriend, son, and I have also been robbed, and laughed at by the police. We have traveled extensively on all seven continents and are not marshmallows, but our worst experience of all of these places has been Mexico. I am an attorney with degrees from Dartmouth and Columbia Law, and would like to do something to help. I think that if people research Mexican vacations on Amazon and find a book about these risks and the callous indifference of the Mexican officials, it might have a substantial impact. I'd like to hear your thoughts on whether collecting these stories in book form, as well as reports on US/Mexican policies, and recommendations for change, might be helpful.
Best regards,
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Name: Debbi
August 29, 2009
Message: Sad to hear of the things that have happened in Mexico, but not surprising. It has turned in to an evil place! We live in Tucson and read about of border violence and what spills over in to our state on a daily basis. The last time we visited the border-Nogales-was almost two years ago, as friend wanted to say he had visited Mexico. As soon as we crossed in to Nogales we made a trip around the block and returned back into the US. We got a very very bad vibe about the place. Posting incidents on Trip Advisor is a very good idea!
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Name: Bridget
August 8, 2009
Message: hi I read your stories and that is so sad about Nolan and the others who have lost their loved ones, Mexico has a lot of beautiful places to visit, but unfortunately now is not the time to be visiting with all that is going on, but when u visit other countries a lot of times, u just have to be aware, may God bless the families
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Name: Sherry
July 18, 2009
Message:
7-18-09 / Was thinking of a Cancun vacation, visited the travel
sites; great deals!! Told my husband when he got home where our
vacation would be to; he hit the roof!!! He brought up the
government warnings for Mexico travel site. Me, trying to prove
him wrong typed in Mexico resort travel; FOUND YOUR SITE!!! I
have been reading through for hours now; I am shocked. I'll
never think about going to Mexico again; ever!! This needs to be
on NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL NEWS!!! I'm going to encourage
everyone I know and meet to STAY AWAY FROM MEXICO!! and inform
them of your website!!!
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Name: Felicia
June 30, 2009
Message: I am currently fighting my ex husband who has a trip planned to playa del carmen on July 23, 09 and is asking that I Sign affidavit to allow my children into this country. He has set up a court date to fight me on this. I will have to hope that a judge will see my side. I am scared to death. Any information besides this website that anyone can help me with would be greatly appreciated. At this point I would welcome anything. Thank you to those who put this site together. I have contacted my local news stations to make people aware. thank you again so much. My heart goes out to those who have lost loved ones.
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Name: Mercia
June 21, 2009
Message:
I'm sorry to hear of your loss and commend what you're doing
with this website. I do however feel if you are only going to
concentrate on US citizens as victims, you might be losing some
of your potential 'audience'. I believe it isn't only US people
being targeted and getting this sort of treatment, so if it was
'opened' up more, i.e., telling EVERYONE not just Americans that
it isn't safe to travel, you'll get more people reading your
message, and you'll be helping other families as well. This is
not a criticism, I'm living in the UK, but am originally from
South Africa. My husband is in Mexico for work and I'm
petrified.
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Name: Josh
March 24, 2009
Message: Heard a phone call about this site on the Howard Stern show this morning. Are you aware of the death of singer Kirsty MacColl - here is the wikipedia link including issues regarding the lack of justice in this case.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kirsty_MacColl
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Name: Wayne
March 28, 2009
Message: Thank you for this site. I heard a call on Howard Stern's show on Sirius last week which brought me to your site. I will disseminate this link to awareness sites.
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Name: Amy
March 29, 2009
Message: We recently returned from the Royal Solaris in San Jose del Cabo.
While we were there, a man drowned in the ocean. It disturbs me that I haven't been able to find any information about it.
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Name: Nicole
April 15, 2009
Message: My heart goes out to those familes who have lost loved ones.
Reading their stories made me sick to my stomach! The disregard/disrespect for human life and for the dead is unacceptable and atrocious! They not only did nada, but they obviously hindered the people getting the help that needed it ASAP! THEY SHOULDA JUST GOTTEN OUTTA EVERYONES WAY WHO WAS TRYING TO HELP AND DONE THE WOLRD A FAVOR AND TAKE A LONG WALK OFF A VERY HIGH CLIFF!!!! I have posted this info on my myspace blog and cafemom as well. I just wish i could do more!
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Name: Monica
April 24, 2009
Message: Thank you for remembering Joshua David Gunderson. Who died in Mexico on March 24, 2009. Josh was our neighbor for many years .He was a white tornado, a beautiful person. It was reported that his death came from a blow to the back of the head said to have happened from a fall in his hotel room . Josh was a college level hockey player , He was graceful and athletic on the ice. The fall story is so disturbing. A translated version of events makes it more of a mystery.
For more information on josh go to www.goalsoftheheart.org
***A poem from josh***
Friends are like balloons. Once you let them go, you might not get them back. Sometimes we get so busy with our own lives and problems that we may not even notice that we've let them fly away. Sometimes we are so caught up in who's right and who's wrong that we forget what's right and wrong.
Sometimes we just don't realize what real friendship means until it's too late. I don't want that to happen, so I'm going to tie you to my heart. So I never lose you!" -Joshua David Gunderson
If only we had known that this beautiful person would die alone in mexico. If only we had known the danger.
rest in peace sweet joshua, we all miss you.
Monica and the Hanson place gang
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Name: Maria
April 27, 2009
Message: My deepest sympathy for all. My husband and I purchased a timeshare in Puerto Vallarta last year and this year we were going to take my 7 year old nephew with us. I'm so glad i saw your website. I won't be taking anymore vacations to Mexico until things change. I sent your website link to all my friends. Best.
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Name: Melissa
April 29, 2009
Message: I heard Nolan's girlfriend this morning (4/29/09) on the radio. Her story stayed with me all morning and I had to check out this website. I have been begging my boyfriend for months to take me on a tropical vacation, now I'm not so sure. I think I'll stick with Florida! I just wanted to say thank you for doing all that you have to promote awareness. I have never heard one bad thing about Mexico until today and I very easily could have been a victim had I traveled there.
Again, thank you so much for your continued efforts to get the word out and please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of Nolan. What I read in those stories is truly appalling, I'm so sorry for your loss.
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Name: Jennifer
April 29, 2009
Message: Thank you to Nolon's girlfriend who called into a radio station and told the story of Nolan's tragic death and gave this awareness website.
I will help spread the word of awareness- sorry for the loss
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Name: May
April 30, 2009
Message: My thoughts and prayers go out to all and every family that has gone through this. I am from Mexico and it is very to know that the people there don't have a care in the world for one another. These tragedies don't happen to just tourist but to the people that live there as well.. Children don't have the proper medical care and elderly people are left in the cold when it comes to health care. American people are very blessed to have hospital and people who train and study to save lives. Because in Mexico there is none of that. There is no such thing as a maternity ward or emergency room. It is very sad. In July of 2007 my grandpa was taken to the hospital alive and he never came home with us. The doctors never told us what happened. They never had an explanation and my mother is certain that they left him to die. To think of him going through such pain and not one person held his hand while he passed tears me apart.
God bless America...
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Name: Will
Date: 3/24/09
Message: Hey there. Just heard your phone call on Howard stern. I am from South Africa and i am really sorry to hear what happened. This is so unfair the way he was not seen to and that doctor should be struck off. Condolences to you and your family and god bless.
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Name: David
Date: 3/24/09
Message: I heard you on the Howard Stern show this morning and your story really hit home for me. I was in Cancun recently with my family for a wedding. My daughters are teenagers and going to college soon. I will be sure to keep them aware of the dangers of going to a foreign country and expecting it to be as safe as the USA.
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Name: Kim
Date: 3/24/09
Message: I heard you this morning on Howard Stern. I can barely get through these tragic stories without sobbing. My deepest sympathies to you and your family and all of the families who have lost a loved one in Mexico. Thank you for making me aware of this problem. I will not be vacationing there any time soon!
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Name: Gary
Date: 3/24/09
Message: Heard you on the Stern show. I agree, mexico is very dangerous.
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Name: Jim
Date: 3/24/09
Message: I sent an email to trips@applevacations.com regarding safe travel to mexico. I was surprised that they sent out travel brouchres in the OC Register. They lied and said that travel to mexican resorts is safe. They are padding their pockets at the expense of safety of Americans. This has got to stop! I have traveled and worked in mexico in the past. We don't and will not anymore because of the mexican attitude toward Americans.I thought you would interested. They are Apple Vacations.
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Name: Jeanette
Message: Please keep pressure on the U.S. State Dept. Travel Warnings on Mexico. In 2008, I sailed Royal Caribbean, and I went ashore in Cozumel, Mexico. I stopped in a souvenir shop, and a Mexican worker accused me of breaking one of the souvenirs. I told her that I didn't break any souvenirs. She called the Mexican police on me. The Mexican police threaten to take me to court before a judge. Other American customers on the cruise ship came to my defense. I agreed to pay half the cost for the souvenir. If there is a broken souvenir, the owner will deduct the cost from the Mexican worker paycheck. The Mexican workers wait until Americans come into the store, and accuses the American tourists of breaking the souvenirs.
If the tourists don't pay for the souvenirs, the Mexican worker will call the police on the tourist. The Mexican police will take the tourist to court before the judge. If the tourist goes before the judge, the tourist will pay 5 times more than what the souvenirs was worth.
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Name: Traci
Message: I wanted to thank you for your call last week. It was the first time I felt that someone truly understood what I have felt for over 10 years. My mother died "drowned" in Cancun May 2, 1998. There is nothing that comes anywhere near closure, just little bits of relief when you find someone that shares your pain. I want to submit my mom's story, and be part of any future newscasts, documentary stories, and support the boycott of these vacation sites that falsely advertise accommodations with doctors and trained emergency staff. I don't have your number in my phone, so please call or email me instructions to submit our story.
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Name: Jonathan
Message: I have lived in and out of Mexico for 15 years also suffered unlawful imprisonment with no real trial. The system and the situation is corrupt in Mexico, if I can aid any family in further investigation of a family members death or disappearance plse. contact me. I am sure you already know the consulate will do nothing for the grave injustices committed by Mexico legal system and cover up.
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Name: Darcy
Message: Great site. I too am cancel my Mayan holiday. If I may add, it would be helpful to have the date of the posts, as to know how current the info is.
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Name: LAURA
Message: have just looked at the link that megerb posted, and I think
those accidents are totally heartbreaking, and I totally understand why people write on them to release their grief, and my heart pours out to them with every ounce of sincerity I have.
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Name: Claudette
Message: After we read the articles on this web site we (myself & three other mothers) decided Cancun was too dangerous to take three teenagers to.
The Air Tran and Fun Jet Vacations want us to pay cancellation fees, even though we feel our life may be in danger if we go there. Is there any way to get around paying the cancellation fees, or somebody we can contact to expose this danger?
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Name: Marissa
Message: hi there: wow I am so very sorry to hear about the losses posted on this site. My heart goes out to all of the families. I just booked a Cancun vacation today for our family (including two young boys). Fortunately I purchased insurance - I will be canceling tomorrow. I am so very, very sorry for your losses. Thank you for posting your stories. You have made a difference.
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Name: Kimberly
Message: Thank you so much for this site. My fiancée and I found out about it and canceled our honeymoon to Mexico because of the horrible tragedies depicted here. THANK YOU.
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Name: Chrisanne
Message: Hi. I just read Nolan's story and all the others and I am deeply sad for your loss. I know losing a loved one is never easy, especially to situations that could have easily been prevented. My best friend and I had our Cancun trip booked for February 18-23 (we would've just been coming back). But we had to cancel b/c my best friend fractured her pelvic bone snowboarding in Big Bear, CA. Well, we were nonetheless disappointed but figured, hey, maybe it's a sign that we weren't supposed to go for some odd reason. Then I started hearing on the local radio stations here (in Las Vegas) that there were numerous advisory warnings for spring break travelers about going to Cancun. Then I did further research and found your website. I was and still am shocked! I never knew any of this was happening, much less in a popular tourist area. I am now thankful that my best friend and I didn't go. It was perhaps indeed a sign! What I suggest is maybe listing ALL the resorts on your site, and then kind of like how Trip Advisor and Apple does, list each incident that has happened at that resort so it could easily be viewed and the warning easily displayed. It could even be rated like how those sites use their 4 star or 5 apple ratings. Perhaps you can put skull and bone ratings. I know this may sound devious, but who cares! They obviously don't care about American travelers so why should we care about their feelings?
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Name: Debra
Message:
Great I got the MVA flyer after I've booked to The Omni hotel
Cancun My daughter is getting married down there Feb 28, 2009.
She is already down went 3 days before the rest of us. I can
say that I was against this trip from the beginning. Wish me
luck
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Name: Ashleigh
Message: I think you should send word out to certain website like... www.studentcity.com
I know they do not want to lose business...but it would help if college kids knew what they were getting themselves into.
So many college men and women think they are getting amazing deals by being able to go to Mexico for so cheap or cheap cruises. But I have been reading about the Oasis Hotel on your site and that is one of the main hotels that student city offers their college guests to stay at. I just think it would be awesome if you could get your word out to a lot of the college-aged world! I am a college student and I believe that if others knew what was really going on at the hotels they are choosing to stay at based on what a college vacation site is saying...it would really change their minds and hopefully make them think twice! Thanks!
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Name: Shirley
Message: Please know how horrified I was when I heard you this morning on a talk show. Your poor beautiful son! We will never step foot again in that country of which does not value human life! All the best to insure your son did not die in vain should we get people to boycott this country. My husband is with the Mass State Police and he was well aware of the crime in that country but had no idea of the inhumane tactics that are allowed to happen there! Give out those flyers at the trade show this weekend to make us all AWARE. Thank you for sharing.
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Name: Teresa
Message: reading the stories here have just appalled me beyond anything I can use words to describe !!! I stumbled on your site while searching for info on vacations in Mexico. I have to say that I now will be vacationing in the U.S. Have you tried contacting Dateline ? 20/20 or even Oprah ? I agree that this really needs to be brought to the attention of everyone from Govt.
to the average citizen ! I am in disbelief that these travel agencies have pretty much just dusted these tragedies under the rug! Please anyway that we can help just let us know. We could start a petition or call some news agencies something.
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Name: Laca
Message: I was moved to tears as I read each the heart-wrenching stories of loss experienced by your families. As a mother of two, I cannot imagine experiencing such a loss along with the inhumane treatment that followed.
My words probably provide little comfort for such immense pain, but please know that I pray for peace and comfort for you and your loved ones. God bless you.
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Name: Elizabeth
Message: Hello, I'm a Mexican girl who just finished college. I studied Hotel Management and I feel so sorry about all those stories. I want to apologize because I recognize that in Mexico there is a lack of security and professionalism that generates events like those you've experienced.
Unfortunately Mexico's Government never acts as it should, we have people non prepared governing us and working on their own without helping this country!!! I feel terribly mad about all of this and I hope some day it changes, I hope that in a future we count with a responsible government who really cares about all matters concerning security,tourisim, education, services, health, etc.
If you need something don't hesitate and coma back to me. I remind at your disposal,
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Name: Heather
Message: I am Christina Polifroni's Aunt - Christina's story is the first one listed under 'victims' I'm curious to know how you found out about her story and also, what we, as Canadians, can do to help spread the word, or get safety standards changed (or implemented) in Mexico. I look forward to your response. We still live in shock over the news of Christina's death.
Thank you for this website.
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Name: H. Pierce
Message: So glad that this site exists and so sorry that all of these vacationers lost their lives. Our town owns land in Mexico and send kids there on trips every year without giving parents this information. I will be sure to forward the link to your site. Thanks for making the public aware!
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Name: Shelley
Message: This is a highly disturbing web-site. Is everyone aware of the progress of the North American Union which is well underway? I studied it in my economics class and have been amazed that no one seems to know about it. The U.S. and Canada will both be merging with Mexico and having open borders. Lovely thought that we will be merging with such a corrupt country as Mexico.
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Name: Andrea
Message: I was sick to my stomach after reading about the Nolan family tragedy. What kind of monster would stand by and not administer help to a young man and let him die.
My daughter and I were planning to go to Mexico for medical treatment this week. The facility is in Rosarito Beach but our hotel on an isolated highway. I had to press the patient coordinator for the right address so I could research the hotel location. I called the hotel and found it has a 30% occupancy since the rise in gang wars in Mexico. I also was told that Rosarito Beach is "perfectly safe but later researched the web and found the hotels and beaches are void of tourists.
I would like to believe the best in people but getting straight answers about my trip was hard.
I think they want our money and don't care about our safety. I think as Americans we need to send a message to Mexico. We will not travel there under any circumstances. I think they need a wake up call and then maybe we will see some changes.
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Name: James
Message: I came across this website through a link from ANOTHER article on violence in Mexico. A lot of the stories seem to surround vacationing in Cancun. I recently came back from Cancun, and after reading all these stories, I’m sadly NOT surprised on what people have written, or what has been written on other websites about crime and violence in Mexico. Mexico is an absolutely beautiful country, with a diverse culture. But unfortunately, crime is prevalent throughout the country and this is not caused simply by the growth or offshoot of drug violence among drug cartels, it is caused by a lack of respect and/or disregard for human life, poverty and low wages, weak laws and the unwillingness of the government and police to enforce all laws, all the time. Add to the mix a history of corruption by the police with low salaries and some indifference to “Gringos” and foreigners. Many people say that crime can happen anywhere, anytime. That is absolutely true. The difference with Mexico compared to other vacation destinations, given the factors I’ve listed above, is that your chances of being a victim of crime or horrible circumstance are substantially higher. From a personal standpoint, Mexico is just plain dangerous.I have served in the military and I have traveled to Cancun, Cabo San Lucas, and Mexico City. I would like to offer some tips, if you feel the need to absolutely vacation in Mexico:
1. Everything looks wonderful on the Internet: Hotels, Resorts, Beaches, Night Clubs, etc. Travel and Hotel websites, local Tourist Boards, will not tell you the dark side of their operations or any information on crime, do some research before you book a hotel.
2. Consider booking with a hotel chain that has a worldwide presence and reputation. It may cost more, but their overall standards and security may be better than a local or lesser known establishment.
3. Travel in groups, always. It may be tiresome to drag an entire group everywhere but you will be less likely to be accosted by criminals and business owners trying to nag you into buying something as you are sightseeing or window shopping. Also, never let someone from the group go anywhere alone, even back to the hotel room because they forgot something or they want to walk along the beach at night. A bonus is if someone in the group knows CPR and basic first aid.
4. Don’t draw attention to yourself. Keep the flashy jewelry, wads of cash, and extra charge/credit cards at home. If you need cash, most hotels will have an ATM or will let you draw cash at the front desk. Also, ask for small bills. If you become the victim of theft, the person reaching into your wallet or purse will feel what appears to be a lot of cash and will be more likely to leave you and the scene of the crime quickly. A majority of businesses also accept credit cards, consider using those also. Consider keeping one credit card and/or travelers cheques secretly hidden in one of your suitcases back at the hotel.
5. Keep quiet. People will always want to know where you’re from, and will probably already you are from the U.S. or Canada when they hear you speak English (or the native tongue of your country). However, don’t disclose more about yourself than necessary. For example: when you have arrived or when you are departing, what kind of work you do, what your plans for the day are, don’t even say you’re lost. It can be very easy to get lost in a different city, if you can’t obtain a clear map of a city try to get a good tourist map. It will have all the landmarks and points of interest on it and you can work your way back to the hotel or from where you started from.
6. Beware of your surroundings - all the time. Who’s following you, who’s out of place, what doesn’t seem or appear right. Gut feelings are usually right!
7. Visit the U.S. State Department for the latest travel advisory and take the time to complete the Travel Registration section. Before you leave the U.S., make a photocopy of your passport and drivers license and leave them with some your trust or they can be easily found. Should anything happen or you have a problem, the photocopies provide specific information about you that can be forwarded to the authorities.
8. Fight Back? My advice is do whatever you need to do to save your life even if that means fighting back OR not fighting back. But is fighting back or escalating a situation worth the 100 pesos in your pocket? Probably not.
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Name: Carlos
Message: I am from Mexico. First of all I have to say that I feel really sorry for what the families on these stories have experienced. I felt really angry about it and sad because I know it's true. The southeast of Mexico is the poorest region of the country. People have very little education (if
any) so I wouldn't count on a hotel employee to give first aid to someone needing it. What I would recommend, if you decide to travel to Mexico, is to buy private medical insurance. Don't waste your time asking for an ambulance or looking for a doctor. Just call the emergency number of your company and they will send you a private ambulance and take you to a private hospital.
That's your best bet. Even I that live here have never used public hospitals in my life (I have heard horror stories). Following your common sense and being aware that you are not in the first world, you could really enjoy your trip to Mexico. My deepest sympathies to those who have lost loved ones.
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Name: Eileen
Message: Thank you for this website. I had no idea that this was going on and am shocked by the stories. We had planned a trip to Mexico, however, there is no way that I will ever consider going there. Thank you again.
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Name: Gerardo
Message: I just found your Webpage today. I can't describe how bad I feel to know that many people suffer here in my country. As a Mexican, I have to find the way to fight against this from here. I love my country and I know there are a lot of people whom are fighting too. Please receive my condolences. Now, you have a friend here trying to change this beautiful country for us and for everyone. Best Regards, Mexico City
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Name: Marlene
Message: Mexico is going through a seriously dangerous time. If the law abiding citizens (because we do exist) that do now CPR, that would've help, that would not lie, are in constant danger, imagine a tourist? Travel in your own country! It is beautiful! A simple trip to New England is full with marvelous nature sights, historical places, art and science museums. And you will be safe. I love my country, but I am the first to admit its many errors and problems. It is now a war zone.
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Name: William
Message: As a retired military officer who has traveled the world, visiting many, many countries, I must reinforce the message here. There are too many threats to list in a lot of countries. I cringed and sighed when my nephew decided to vacation in Mexico. Young people just do not always exercise the best judgment, and their lack of experience leads them to believe they are safe, when they are NOT. If one just HAS to go to Mexico, they should establish firm rules about going out in groups, and watching out for each other. I have been in Mexico many times, from Acapulco to Mexico City to Tijuana. I would not go south of the border these days....too dangerous.
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Name: Anonymous
Message: I read thru your entire website and literally have a hundred comments to make. First, I am sorry for the loss of the loved ones on your site. May they go with god and may the families find peace to continue with their lives. Second, thank you for building a website to collect information on vacation deaths in Mexico. I have a personal connection with five deaths in Baja and could not confirm them until I found your link to the Department of State website. Although that information is not 100% accurate, at least it is there and they did happen. I am sure that these deaths were also publicized in the local Mexican newspapers, but searching them is next to impossible.
There are several competing interests which are at odds in the tourist business. You have the vendors who are doing the best that they can to provide a service, make a buck and continue to live in the community. Although it may seem unregulated, bad news does affect business. The police do investigate and sometimes vendors go to jail for multiple abuses. The police have their own political issues they have to abide by; theft, traffic, tourists, locals, the gringo community, their bosses, drugs, guns, training, on & on. And, priorities seem to change weekly.
The medical community can be great as long as you don't have an emergency. And, the police investigation may take priority over accident response. Hence, the reluctance of bystanders to assist in life saving techniques, especially when hospital response is extremely slow.
Firefighters: they are poorly trained, paid & equipped volunteers. In fact, the place I stay counts on neighbors and buckets. And, the hospital is three hours away if the car starts.
In Baja you have the opportunity to enjoy 2000 miles of largely unregulated coastline. You can fly down the 1000's of miles of dirt roads at triple digit speeds. And yes, you can drink yourself into a moron if you desire.
Just remember, official help is almost non-existent. And, if you are in a tourist area, first responders are more likely to be thieves & rapists than other parts of the country.
The risks are greater and the rewards can be bountiful. Be vigilant, use a lot of common sense and enjoy your vacation.
I was going to recommend that you should separate out the drug & gangster deaths from the safety related deaths involving bonifide tourist activities. Although they seem unrelated, it would be difficult to differentiate even though regional problems seem to stand out. You might like to add something on traffic awareness. Their highway habits are much different from USofA.
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Name: June
Message: How very tragic for your family and all others involved. I will let as many people as possible know of this. I pray that my grandson, who is in college in San Diego will stay out of Mexico. I think he and friend have already visited, but hopefully it was his first and last trip to this terrible place. God bless you.
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Name: Dolores
Message: We have made plans with a travel agent to do a group land tour of the "Magnificent Copper Canyon, " Mexico. Relatives are concerned about our safety citing recent kidnappings and robberies in Mexico. We will be traveling by US Motor coach to Hermiosillo, to San Carlos to Sea of Cortez, to Alamos, to Fuerte & then a train ride into The Copper Canyon. What do you advise?
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Name: Anonymous
Message: My deepest condolences for Nolan's passing.
As hotel and resort editor for a prominent travel publication, I began traveling to Mexico over twenty years ago. For years my reports of the corruption and dangers were ignored and unpublished by this allegedly "unbiased" editorial group.
Perhaps there is
some way I can assist in your cause.
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Name: Daniel
Message: I have been a Private Investigator for 36 years and have worked in all of the Mexican states regarding homicides-kidnappings and missing persons. if there is anything I can ever do for you please contact me. I have lived in Mexico for the last 22 years.
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Name: Simona
Message: I am really sorry for your loss, nothing can replace your son. I just want to thank you for putting this website up, I never imagined how backwards this country is. My husband and I wanted to purchase a time share in Cancun at a Starwood resort, but we backed out of it, didn't feel right.
Now I know why, and I am so happy that we backed out. I will never visit Mexico or go there on vacation, there are plenty of other beautiful places where people are treated with respect.
May God bless you
and comfort your hearts!
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Name: Wayne
Message: Thank you all for sharing your tragic stories with the world. I have cancelled my trip to Cancun, not because of fear, but for retribution.
I have informed my travel agent, and the hotel of this.
Thank you
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Name: Maria
Message: I
have forwarded this web site to everyone in my address book. My
prayers go to the victims and their families. Have any
pamphlets been sent to colleges? Since Mexico is such a hot
spot for spring break, I thought that maybe that might help. If
I can help, please contact me.
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Name: Tracy
Message: I provide tote bags filled with essentials when a loved one suffers a traumatic brain injury in Florida through all of our Trauma Centers here. Recently my son's friend fell from his balcony (tripped over the sliding glass door track and fell) and suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury while on Spring Break in Cancun. He was not drunk. Your website has opened the eyes of many regarding this issue but I feel you should open it up to not just deaths but Catastrophic injuries like TBI. Many more are critically injured and will be disabled for the rest of their lives than those who die.
This would inevitably be a much bigger website but also will allow the truth to be told. Injuries do not make the papers but those of us out here who know that thousands more suffer Traumatic Brain Injury or spinal cord injuries in Mexico should be added to your list.
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Name: Kelly
Message: I just want to first start off by saying how sorry I am for your loss and for the many other families that have suffered harm from traveling to Mexico. I want to thank you soooo much for informing me and my family about the horrors that have happened and will continue to happen as we were considering a family vacation to Mexico in the next few months. I am a mother of 4 young children and can't imagine anything this horrible happening to them. I received your notice in our local coupon packet and just can't believe that these things can happen in this day and age! I will now NEVER consider traveling to Mexico and will tell as many people as I can about the immoral and corrupt country that it is! I will keep you and the many others in my prayers! I applaud you for keeping others safe! Thank you again!
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Name: Ryan
Message: I was recently doing some research on ANOTHER canadian killed in mexico, and stumbled upon your website. I have been wondering for a while now if Americans had the same problem, what an eye opener! About 6months ago someone from our community (Geof Toews) "fell" off his balcony to an untimely death. There were anoth 6? canadian deaths in the last couple years that seem very odd. The entire way the country is ran is disgusting and i will never go back again. My heart goes out to all who have lost loved ones..
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Name: Petra
Message: I had contacted you once before a few months back about a Canadian death in Mexico and I mentioned to you that I would let you know if I hear of any others. During this weekend, I heard of another Canadian death in Cabo San Lucas, last Thursday night. A 29 year old was shot 3 times in the head and his girlfriend was shot in the foot in their hotel room at a plush resort.
They are from the Vancouver area, British Columbia, Canada. What is really weird is that this is being kept very quiet and there is only one website that has anything about it (the Vancouver Sun, which is a newspaper). His name is Bouabal Bounthavorn and her name is Masha Heikali, aged 24 from Burnaby. So the only mention of the whole ordeal is on this website, it is fairly long, but here goes: www.canada.com/vancouversun/story.html?id=ec09fd3f-3a8c-4203-9826-757342b604cb
If you have any trouble finding out more info, please let me know and I will see what I can do.
Thanks again, for your informative website. I refer to it often and have told many people about it, some have decided not to go there on their vacation. Take care, Petra
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Name: Chris
Message: my
family and i are going to the mexican riviera in june. how do i
register with the state dept? do you have any ohter advice
other than staying together? we are so sorry to hear your and
other's stories. the stories have made us think twice.
thank you for your concern for others.
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Name: Maria
Message: Hi, Im a mexican citizen and I just found your site. Although I had to face the info you published with the pride I have for my country, Im so sorry to admit it is mostly true that Mexico is a dangerous country indeed. I have many friends from Canada and the US that come here every year since I was a little girl. Nothing has happened to them in their visits, and the people in town has deep love for them. They have become family to all of us. I really pray nothing happens to them in their future visits... I will really hate my country if it does (and it would be unfair to do so, as you can«t judge the whole country and people like trash because of the fault of others).
Im very sorry for the loss of everyone who lost someone here... the whole world needs to become a better place, Mexico in special, but the rest of the countries too.
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Name:
Barbara
Message: Why would anyone want to go to Mexico when the
Mexicans are breaking their necks trying to get into the USA?
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Name: Ginny
Message: Thank you for honoring your loved ones by telling
their tragic stories. I had not been aware of the dangers of
Mexican Vacations until I heard Nolan's story. I will definitely
spread the word.
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Name: BJ
Message: My sister in-law has recently had to deal with her son's untimely death in Mexico. She forwarded this webpage to me and I will be forwarding it to every single email address in my directory. After reading Nolan's story I can hardly breathe. My heart goes out to his family and friends. I will spread these stories and hope that a life can be saved and hope that no one has to ever go through this again. I will next read 'How can I help?' to see what else I can do to help.
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Name: Charlene
Message: Hi. I went to the travel show in Boston MA and received a flyer for Nolan Webster. Went on your site and so sorry to hear all your losses!!!! I will never let my children go to Mexico or our family after reading the stories on your site my prayers are with all of you.
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Name: Dana
Message: Thank you for your services in exposing the unsafe atmosphere in Mexico. I live in San Diego and will not even consider going to Mexico due to the very reasons stated on this site. It's disgraceful how the Mexican govt tries to con people into going there through exotic looking TV commercials and other forms of advertisements. I'll spread the link to this site to everyone I know.
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Name: Anonymous
Message: I used to travel to Cancun every year for about 8 years with my husband and kids. I noticed a huge change on our last trip I did not feel safe, lots of drugs offered, shady hotel workers. We heard about a couple from Spain who were murdered near Tulum. We will never go back to Mexico.
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Name: Heidi
Message: I went with one of my friends to the Travel Show today
in Boston. A man outside was handing out flyers and he handed
one to me and my friend, saying it was about his son. I glanced
at the flyer and saw that it was "in loving memory of Nolan" and
that made me wonder, so I tucked it into my pocket and figured
that I'd check out the web site when I got home. I just read
through all of the story and am now in tears. Mr. Webster and
the rest of the Webster family and friends, I cannot say how
sorry I am for your loss!! I'm going to put a link to your site
on my facebook page and will be emailing my friends about
Nolan's story and your webpage. Thank you for educating me
about the serious dangers of a Mexican holiday, which I am no
longer considering thanks to your educating me about Nolan.
Again, my sympathies to you,
**************
Name: Lisa
Message: Just want to let you all know my husband and I and some friends were planning a Mexico vacation. But after doing some research and finding this website from a radio program, my husband and I have decided not to go to a place where we need to be worried about our personal safety. We also feel to spend our tourist dollars in a country where the authorities are so obviously corrupt would be to support the current system. The loss of your loved ones is a terrible price to pay, but this site is definitely an eye-opener. I have passed along a link to this site to our friends, and will continue to spread the word to anyone else I hear of planning a trip to Mexico. Thank you for taking the time to make us all aware.
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Name: Nancy
Message: So sorry for your loss. Based on your website, I have cancelled my trip to Mexico. Thank goodness for your website!!
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Name: Paul
Message: I used to visit and work in Mexico with my film crew in the 70's..was advised then of the crime, murder, dope, prostitution,robbing, mugging theivert, rapes,crimes of the police, etc. Mexico is a dangerous place..no person should ever Visit Mexico..ph
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Name: Reg
Message: I commend your website. Canadians are dying in Mexico as well adn its being covered up. I will never go there again, period.
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Name: Eddie
Message: Hi, I am a mexican citizen living in canada and knew about this web site through a newspaper. I'm a travel professional and i would like to advertise mexico as a tour destination. I read the stories of the people that sadly passed away in the country and i have to say that although it little helps I am deeply sorry for all those sad cases and give all my moral support to the families of those people.
I knew about some of those cases because before i came to canada i was working as a tour guide in cancun so of course i got to know about some of those sad cases. Although it hurts i have to admit that many people working in the hospitality industry in mexico are people with no professional preparation and in most cases they learned on the way, the work the way they think it is right. They join the industry because it offers easy jobs. That is something that people like us with professional preparation in the industry have to deal with, working with improvised people that may have no passion for the industry. I love my country of course and still think that is a country worth visiting, but i love it with my eyes opened, It's nice when people tell me they visited the country and had a great time, but it's important to be aware of all these situations, I really think there should be a change in the way the run hospitality in the country, it should be given more importance and respect. I want to encourage people to go to mexico not by selling a wonderland but by selling what it is, wherever you go, you always have to know the truth about what's going on there, i wanna make sure just like you, that the people that visit the country have a great time.
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Name: Derek
Message: Thank you for your great website. I live in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and know too well the horror stories from Mexico, too many unexplained deaths and cover ups. And now Canadian Brenda Martin (i think this is her name) is incarcerated for 2 years on phoney charges. You are guilty before innocent down there. Too many Americans as well have been treated horribly. Hope less people travel there and see the truth for what it is. Thank you again and best wishes.
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Name: Larry
Message: I do agree and this year decided against
Mexico as my sun and sand. There are better and safer countries
down south to visit and so I did.
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Name: Craig
Message: Mrs. Webster, My name is Craig I saw your sons
story on channel 5 tonight,, I have a younger brother with whom
i am very close and cannot imagine what you must have gone/ are
still going through. The one thing i can't understand, is since
there were multiple situations the same as your Nolan, why is
this something that we, the unsuspecting public are really just
hearing the story NOW?, I am so happy that you shared Nolan's
story, and empathise with you having to re-live this huge
tragedy, yet this is something that should have be so avalable
to the general public, with Spring Break recently etc..Again, i
am so sorry for your loss and realize this is something that
will be with your family forever, and as you mentioned in
Nolan's story, these resorts need to not only take american
dollars, but be held accountable for the well being of all
visitors, it seems so commonplace, yet I see it is not. Than you
so much for telling your story, and again, my deepest
condolonces.
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Name: Ani
Message: I commend you for the actions you have taken
and are taking to get your message out. I can't even fathom
losing a child, but I can imagine what is driving you to try so
hard to make sure people are aware of what is going on in
Mexico. Seems as though there's complete disregard for the
value of human life. I was considering a trip to Mexico, which
I will no longer take based on your website. It's ironic that I
was brought to the website by a mailer in the weekly ads that I
often just throw out.... Once again, hats off to you for all
the various avenues of getting your message out... Very sorry
for your loss.
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Name: Suzanne
Message: I wanted to let you you know that I saw the
report about Nolan on the news last night. What a tragic and sad
story. My daughter is scheduled to go with a group of friends
to Mexico on Saturday for her Spring break/graduation. I did
let her know about what happened to Nolan and that she should be
very careful and told her about some of the precautions
mentioned in the news cast. I'm wondering if you have any other
suggestions for me to relay to her. Of course as a mother you
always worry, I just would like her to be as prepared as
possible. Thank you.
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Name: Caroline
Message: This is a wonderful site and one that is
desperately needed. I am a very close friend of Melody (whom I
believe you spoke to on Saturday). I was with her the night JR
died.
My main point comment would be that the lack of humane support
for tourists in Mexico and their resorts is due to a deep seeded
and embedded hatred for Americans in general, but most
especially, white Americans.
The best advice you could give anyone on this site is simply to
boycott Mexico and Mexican resorts. The only thing that will
'wake them up' is a jolt to their bottom line. God bless you for
this site. I will make it a regular stop in my internet travels
and will us it as a vehicle of learning for my friends and loved
ones.
My prayers are with you.
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Name: Tiffani
Message: I know you have been forwarded the story of JR
Adams and I am begging you to put it on your site. His death was
the most horrific tragedy ever experienced by our family and
people have got to know...Mexico is NO VACATION!
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Name: Derek
Message: Thank you for your great website. I live in
Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and know too well the horror stories
from Mexico, too many unexplained deaths and coverups. And now
Canadian Brenda Martin (i think this is her name) is
incarcerated for 2 years on phoney charges. You are guilty
before innocent down there. Too many Americans as well have been
treated horribly. Hope less people travel there and see the
truth for what it is. Thank you again and best wishes.
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Name: Jen
Message: I am very sorry
about what happened to your son. My friend JR Adams had a very
tragic death in Mexico as well. His death hit us all very hard.
He was a great man of God and an all around great person. This
some what comforts me because I know where he is now and I can
only hope that, that will bring you some comfort as well. JR
also was a true friend and a true one and only and Mexico took
that from us. So I just wanted to let you know that I am always
spreading the word about Mexico. So if it's ok I would like to
be able to use your son's name as well when spreading the truth
about Mexico and the tragic and horrible death(murder in my eyes
and his Mother's) of my forever good friend JR. Again I am
truely sorry and my prayers are forever with you and your
family.
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