Lived in Houston for 5 years from 2005-2010. Still do student X/C and stay downtown. Never a problem. Bums ask for money at worst. There are bad neighborhoods in all cities. Certainly sometimes things spill into the nicer areas. But as far as cities are concerned, Houston was not even close to the northeastern cities I lived near as far as day to day problems.

Philly is full of scumbags.....

3 Charged With Murder In Phillies Fan Beating

Worst Philly Sports Fans Moments

Do any of you have much experience in the Playa del Carmen area? I'm planning on staying there with a friend for a few nights at the end of next month.

I was under the impression that it was the "safer-ish" place to go in Mexico, but was unaware of the escalations you guys are talking about. I don't think we will really go into the Cancun area much, if at all.

Any other thoughts?

I've stayed in Playa del Carmen several times and have never seen any problems (but that doesn't mean they're not there). I'd venture to say if you're going to one of the resorts, and stay in the resort, you'll have zero problems, aside from petty theft of your things while you're swimming (ask me how I know that).

Oh Boy!
 

Even though GDL is on my avoid list I'll get to spend my first overnight there next month. NOT looking forward to it. Any advice?

Don't drink the water.

Stick with the tequila or cervesa.:D

ReCALcitrant,

Downtown Houston is a nice area of Houston. Some of the areas around it and even more suburban are not. I would never go to Fifth Ward (never go to a neighborhood c that has the word "ward" in it) or Acres Homes at night.

AP

Haven't done it, but there apparently is a really interesting tequila tour. No, seriously. They take you out and show you how it goes from the agave plantation to your shot glass. I've flown with several guys that have done it and said it really was pretty interesting.

I swore off tequila years ago, and again last weekend :D but it might be worth it if you get one of the 24-30 hour layovers.

Still Mexico though, so I wouldn't venture out alone or much after dark. Don't drink too much tequila and keep your wits about you, and you should be fine. Have fun!

Always
 

Always good advice!:D

I'll have to keep the tour in mind. This particular layover is too short though. Thanks.