Airport Agents CAUGHT Red Handed in $500 Scam

✅ SUBSCRIBE: enjoythejourney...
Watch us on the first 24/7 RV TV Network! enjoythejourne...
➡️ Subscribe by Email: enjoythejourney...
✅ Click ⬇⬇⬇"SHOW MORE"⬇⬇⬇ for links to our favorite RV resources, gadgets, gear, & FREE stuff!
SHOP Our FAVORITE RV & travel gear on AMAZON www.amazon.com...
CHAPTERS/TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Intro
00:07 Scammed Out of $500 At Cancun Mexico Airport
00:16 Mexico Customs Scam Alert!
00:21 Mexico Government Forced Me To Pay $9508mx Pesos
00:32 Took My Passport
00:43 Mexico's "Legal" Airport Scam!
01:09 WARNING! Latest Mexico Tourist Scam!
02:03 Avoid This Costly Mistake When Traveling To Mexico
02:20 The Cancun Mexico Scam You Need To Know About
03:35 Cheap Monthly Beach Rentals In Mexico
03:56 Beware! My Bad Experience In Mexico
04:21 WARNING! Mexico Tourist Passport Trap!
04:29 Random Airport Customs Check Cost Me $500
04:40 WARNING! Mexico Airport Baggage Check Could Cost You
05:05 Warning To Business Travelers Heading To Mexico
05:10 KZbinrs, Content Creators, Digital Nomads Beware Of Traveling To Mexico
05:25 Remote Workers Beware Of This Mexico Scam
05:56 Business Travelers Look Out For This Mexico Fraud
06:10 Want To Fly Your Drone In Mexico? Look Out For This $500 Tax
06:46 Hit With A $500 Tax In Mexico
06:59 Mexico Agents Took My Passport, Laptop & Drone
07:09 Trapped By Mexico Border Customs Agents
07:55 Bringing A Drone Into Mexico? You Will Get Fined
08:14 The $500 Mexico Airport Fraud You Need To Know About
08:51 Traveling To Mexico? Beware Of This 19% Tax
09:25 Trapped By Mexico Airport Agents
09:44 Chase & Capital One Credit Cards Said It Was Fraud
10:37 Beware Of This AI Voice & Video Scam
12:03 The Unexpected Mexico Trip Expense You Need To Know About
12:54 Are All KZbinrs Are Rich?
13:38 The $500 Unexpected Expense When I Traveled To Mexico
14:41 What Are You Allowed To Bring Into Mexico?
17:25 Diabetics Beware Of Traveling To Mexico
19:03 How Much Alcohol Can You Bring Into Mexico?
19:41 How Many Pets Can You Travel Into Mexico With?
19:58 Mexico Airport Travel Tips
20:02 Watch Out For These Scams In Cancun Mexico
20:19 Mexico Car Rental Scams
20:53 Cancun Mexico Airport Taxi Scam
20:54 WARNING! Mexico Taxi Scam
24:18 Cancun Mexico Beach Drone Video
26:01 The Mexico Government Needs To Fix This!
27:56 What Are The Friendliest Countries For Tourists Or Travel?
28:10 Don't Go To Mexico
Links:
List of what you can bring to Mexico (without having to pay tax) omawww.sat.gob....
Hotel I stayed at for $53/night (off-season) Bsea Cancun Plaza Hotel (I booked through Priceline)
Tom's Beginner's Guide To RVing Course on RV Masterclass! (free with subscription) Best RV Routes, campsites & more! enjoythejourne... (7 Day FREE Trial & 30% OFF exclusive to subscribers only)
FREE OFFICIAL TRAUMA/PTSD TEST! enjoythejourney... 🌞 Cheri can help one on one with you over Zoom (94% success treating depression, PTSD, anxiety, shame & more in one 2 hour session)
📶 HOW DO WE GET INTERNET? Save 20% OFF your first month with Homefi Internet with code: EnjoyLiferv enjoythejourne...
More about Homefi Internet enjoythejourne...
✅ MERCH! T-SHIRTS & MORE! enjoythejourne...
👍 Quick Start Guide: How to Make Money & RV & FREE RV Campsite Setup & Breakdown Checklist(s) enjoythejourney...
Get all your truck, towing, RV needs & more enjoythejourney...
*** SOCIAL: Follow us & share ***
Join the 'Journey Tribe': enjoythejourney...
Subscribe to our KZbin channel: enjoythejourney...
Subscribe to our Podcast: anchor.fm/enjo...
Subscribe to our newsletter for updates: enjoythejourney...
Join our Facebook Group: enjoythejourney...
Facebook Page: / enjoythejourney.life
Instagram: / enjoythejourney.life
TikTok / enjoythejourney.life
Website: enjoythejourney...
*** RV PARKING & CAMPSITE FINDERS! ***
Get $100 off (or more) a NEW Thousand Trails camping pass/membership at enjoythejourne...
Save on a USED 1000 Trails membership! Contact Kimberly at enjoythejourney... or 800-272-0401 (mention Tom Kenemore if you call in)
RV FREE at wineries, breweries, golf courses & more (save 15% off with code: HHFRIENDS15) enjoythejourney...
*** CONTACT US ***
Email: [e-mail]
Mail Bag:
Lake Effect Media
14870 Granada Avenue 1037
Apple Valley, MN 55124
Enjoy The Journey . Life, All Rights Reserved
Our channel is for entertainment purposes only. We are not RV or travel experts.
Some of our links are affiliate links. Thank you!
#mexico #cancun #scammer

[@EnjoyTheJourneyLife]

Can you believe this!?!? ✅ SUBSCRIBE: enjoythejourney.life/KZbin Watch us on the first 24/7 RV TV Network! enjoythejourney.life/RVTV ➡ Subscribe by Email: enjoythejourney.life/newsletter ✅ Click ⬇⬇⬇"READ MORE"⬇⬇⬇ for links to our favorite RV resources, gadgets, gear, & FREE stuff! SHOP Our FAVORITE RV & travel gear on AMAZON www.amazon.com/shop/enjoythejourney.life CHAPTERS/TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Intro 00:07 Scammed Out of $500 At Cancun Mexico Airport 00:16 Mexico Customs Scam Alert! 00:21 Mexico Government Forced Me To Pay $9508mx Pesos 00:32 Took My Passport 00:43 Mexico's "Legal" Airport Scam! 01:09 WARNING! Latest Mexico Tourist Scam! 02:03 Avoid This Costly Mistake When Traveling To Mexico 02:20 The Cancun Mexico Scam You Need To Know About 03:35 Cheap Monthly Beach Rentals In Mexico 03:56 Beware! My Bad Experience In Mexico 04:21 WARNING! Mexico Tourist Passport Trap! 04:29 Random Airport Customs Check Cost Me $500 04:40 WARNING! Mexico Airport Baggage Check Could Cost You 05:05 Warning To Business Travelers Heading To Mexico 05:10 KZbinrs, Content Creators, Digital Nomads Beware Of Traveling To Mexico 05:25 Remote Workers Beware Of This Mexico Scam 05:56 Business Travelers Look Out For This Mexico Fraud 06:10 Want To Fly Your Drone In Mexico? Look Out For This $500 Tax 06:46 Hit With A $500 Tax In Mexico 06:59 Mexico Agents Took My Passport, Laptop & Drone 07:09 Trapped By Mexico Border Customs Agents 07:55 Bringing A Drone Into Mexico? You Will Get Fined 08:14 The $500 Mexico Airport Fraud You Need To Know About 08:51 Traveling To Mexico? Beware Of This 19% Tax 09:25 Trapped By Mexico Airport Agents 09:44 Chase & Capital One Credit Cards Said It Was Fraud 10:37 Beware Of This AI Voice & Video Scam 12:03 The Unexpected Mexico Trip Expense You Need To Know About 12:54 Are All KZbinrs Are Rich? 13:38 The $500 Unexpected Expense When I Traveled To Mexico 14:41 What Are You Allowed To Bring Into Mexico? 17:25 Diabetics Beware Of Traveling To Mexico 19:03 How Much Alcohol Can You Bring Into Mexico? 19:41 How Many Pets Can You Travel Into Mexico With? 19:58 Mexico Airport Travel Tips 20:04 Watch Out For These Scams In Cancun Mexico 20:19 Mexico Car Rental Scams 20:53 Cancun Mexico Airport Taxi Scam 20:54 WARNING! Mexico Taxi Scam 24:18 Cancun Mexico Beach Drone Video 26:01 The Mexico Government Needs To Fix This! 27:56 What Are The Friendliest Countries For Tourists Or Travel? 28:10 Don't Go To Mexico Links: List of what you can bring to Mexico (without having to pay tax) omawww.sat.gob.mx/aduanas/pasajeros/Paginas/Mercancia_ingresar_Mexico.aspx Hotel I stayed at for $53/night (off-season) Bsea Cancun Plaza Hotel (I booked through Priceline) Tom's Beginner's Guide To RVing Course on RV Masterclass! (free with subscription) Best RV Routes, campsites & more! enjoythejourney.life/planning (7 Day FREE Trial & 30% OFF exclusive to subscribers only) FREE OFFICIAL TRAUMA/PTSD TEST! enjoythejourney.life/cheri 🌞 Cheri can help one on one with you over Zoom (94% success treating depression, PTSD, anxiety, shame & more in one 2 hour session) 📶 HOW DO WE GET INTERNET? Save 20% OFF your first month with Homefi Internet with code: EnjoyLiferv enjoythejourney.life/router More about Homefi Internet enjoythejourney.life/homefi ✅ MERCH! T-SHIRTS & MORE! enjoythejourney.life/shirts 👍 Quick Start Guide: How to Make Money & RV & FREE RV Campsite Setup & Breakdown Checklist(s) enjoythejourney.life/newsletter Get all your truck, towing, RV needs & more enjoythejourney.life/Etrailer **** SOCIAL: Follow us & share **** Join the 'Journey Tribe': enjoythejourney.life/join Subscribe to our KZbin channel: enjoythejourney.life/KZbin Subscribe to our Podcast: anchor.fm/enjoy-the-journey-life Subscribe to our newsletter for updates: enjoythejourney.life/newsletter Join our Facebook Group: enjoythejourney.life/group Facebook Page: facebook.com/EnjoyTheJourney.Life Instagram: instagram.com/enjoythejourney.life TikTok www.tiktok.com/@enjoythejourney.life Website: enjoythejourney.life/ **** RV PARKING & CAMPSITE FINDERS! **** Get $100 off (or more) a NEW Thousand Trails camping pass/membership at enjoythejourney.life/trails Save on a USED 1000 Trails membership! Contact Kimberly at enjoythejourney.life/TT or 800-272-0401 (mention Tom Kenemore if you call in) RV FREE at wineries, breweries, golf courses & more (save 15% off with code: HHFRIENDS15) enjoythejourney.life/HH **** CONTACT US **** Email: [e-mail] Mail Bag: Lake Effect Media 14870 Granada Avenue 1037 Apple Valley, MN 55124 Enjoy The Journey . Life, All Rights Reserved Our channel is for entertainment purposes only. We are not RV or travel experts. Some of our links are affiliate links. Thank you! #mexico #cancun #scammer

[@dwightmorrisva]

I had something similar happen to me and when I refused to pay they threatened to arrest me. As I stood there pondering what to do it dawned on me that I was under duress. So, I signed on the credit card receipt signature line, "Under Duress" rather than my name and they never noticed. I disputed the credit card charge based on the signature and won the dispute and the charge was reversed.

[@Cobbmtngirl]

Excellent! Thanks.

[@rebeccabrown5014]

Amazing! 🙂

[@karinwest919]

@@dwightmorrisva smart!!

[@elizabethchamberlain6893]

Good for you!

[@yosquire]

That's a creative strategy, not many people could come up with that on the fly in that circumstance. Hope you enjoyed your last trip to Mexico.

[@mrgreen8058]

We drove into Mexico to visit a nephew who was there for a church mission. We were only in Mexico for a couple hours total. When returning to the US our navigation took us to the wrong line to re-enter the US - it was a faster line. When we got to the security guy at the end of the line he wanted to fine us $10,000 per person (there were 4 of us, so $40,000) or throw us in jail. He held our passports and there were tons of security with automatic weapons while we waited for a while. We were fortunate that after a while they let us leave with a stern warning, but I have heard about a lot of people not being so lucky. I don’t ever want to go to Mexico again.

[@lisablaus1459]

Avoid Mexico.

[@pammortensen8225]

We have a secret question set up with our son to avoid the AI scam. I would suggest Puerto Rico, affordable, no passport needed, beautiful and filled with culture and history.

[@gloriatreis2204]

This is a good reminder to check the rules for international travel. Thank you!

[@EnjoyTheJourneyLife]

Glad it was helpful!

[@dontfencemein-rving7439]

Many countries have the same rules. I live in Peru and you can only bring one laptop, one camera, two cellphones, etc. How do you get around this? You must declare the second laptop and drone. Put the value of what you think it is and you will be taxed on that value since your declaration is a legal signed document. So for your 5 or 6 year old Macbook you could have valued at say $300 and the used drone for $100 or whatever price you think. They can only charge you taxes on the value you declared. In that scenario it would have been $76. However, not declaring these items appears as if you are trying to sneak them through. So, they go for the maximum penalty. Many times, as long as you declare, and they see that you are only passing through, they waive any taxes and fees. Also, for any electronics keep photos of receipts on your cellphone. I travel back and forth about four times per year. You have to be careful even on making connections in other countries, sometimes you have your bags checked and scanned again. Double check before you reach Customs if you need a declaration.

[@bobbihanratty8792]

Why even go to Mexico??

[@BlackKnight-x4c]

Y stay in the USA?

[@collinsfriend1]

I have a friend who went to Mexico and Baja alternatively each winter. She and her husband were in their 70's. They had a self built primitive milk truck they camped with. (not really built, they used it for carrying camping gear) One time, pretty much the last time they went- they were stopped by the Mexican military and had to pay $500 (must be their favorite number ) to let them go.

[@karinwest919]

Other KZbinrs even lost their RV, so we will not cross into Mexico.

[@rebeccabrown5014]

Which KZbinrs?

[@karinwest919]

@@rebeccabrown5014 tenaj and tino travels

[@karinwest919]

@@rebeccabrown5014 , tenaje and Tino. Hope I spelled it correctly. Ordeal!!

[@bobabooie6389]

I stopped going to Mexico in 2000. I won't step foot in that place again👍🏻🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲

[@visulino]

Mexicans won't be expected you, don't worry and stay home.

[@angelaklinger2951]

Tom, I am so sorry this happened to you. Not only you but thousands of Americans. I know several RV-er’s that got caught in their little scam. I appreciate you sharing on what happened to you. ❤️🙏🇺🇸

[@gme5802]

It’s not a scam. He failed to file his declaration and he got caught and charged the VAT. Frankly, he’s lucky that they didn’t fine him above and beyond the VAT and confiscate his gear. BTW non-Mexican citizens are prohibited from flying a drone over 250 grams and the drone he possessed is a DJI Mavic that weighs in excess of 900 grams. Also non-Mexican citizens are prohibited from flying drones for commercial purposes which he did do as flying his drone was in support of his commercial enterprise ie his YT channel. In this instance Tom is the epitome of the “ugly American”. He goes to a foreign country and doesn’t bother to check with their consulate’s website to ensure what is and not permissible and fails to declare his items (BTW Mexico clearly posts in English that you are required to declare items valued over $1500 or equivalent and then he whines about the host country enforcing their laws and regulations or in his parlance scamming him. Don’t feel any sympathy for this fool he received the treatment he earned.

[@Patty747]

Just another reason to avoid Mexico. I went to Cozemel years ago and did not feel safe at all!

[@Bigheartrolling]

In 1986 I was in MX and they weren’t letting me or my friend off the bus to the airport unless we gave them money. I remember I had $20 left and so I gave it to them. It was scary.

[@dieselgreg60]

Haven’t been to Mexico since the 80’s, no thank you I haven’t even come close to see all the beautiful things the US has to offer

[@jeanettechervony6861]

You need to have a "secret word" with your mother-In-law, then she'll know it's you calling...

[@jstanovic]

Hard to call it a scam...more that you didn't do your homework before you left. Most people don't.

[@1vagabundo962]

If you don't want to pay taxes to Mexico don't bring unnecessary equipment. It's the law. We Mexican citizen are alow to bring only one computer,why should they relax the laws to accommodate you and keep you happy.

[@gme5802]

Spot On.

[@henryford2736]

You need to inform your bank you're going to Mexico for the cards to work

[@cherylehubicsak3070]

They say stay out of Mexico! Don't you see news? It's a complete risk. Even resorts are reporting attacks, murders.etc. People driving are being shot up. You're lucky your returning with your life.

[@danoc51]

Tom should know better than to go to Mexico, and even thinking about renting there! Tom, maybe you need a conservator. You simply violated one of the rules of common sense.

[@lovematters7122]

Thanks for sharing! It's a "no go" zone for me!😳

[@casitacindy461]

no mexico visits for us then. thank you for letting us know.

[@jwmustang1]

Same here!

[@PerezTeam]

​@jwmustang1 same with us, never going back. Too much of a Hassel every time.

[@chuckconnors615]

When Traveling to Mexico we cruise in / out.... never have experienced these charge. I agree this will chase away TOURIST Trade!!!

[@gm-f5831]

Had you refused to pay the option would have been for you to give them your equipment to hold til you exited the country. If you know the Mexico Drone Laws it was the Drone that was the ultimate red flag. Foreigners cannot fly any drone over 249gr which your drone exceeded so possesion only suggested you were likley to break thier laws. Only Mexican nationals can legally fly a drone larger than 249gr Drones without a special permit. Understand while they may have taken your equipment they would have had to give you a reciept and exiting boarding pass which you could present upon exit to get yourequipment back at the airport. When entering with the proper 249gr drone print the Mexico Drone laws and carry with you wehn entering Mexico as well when yo are flyingto present to law enforcement that says ou you can operate that drone legally in Mexico...

[@EnjoyTheJourneyLife]

Interesting, thanks for sharing that.

[@garycushing8521]

I use ADO bus service. They are at the far end of 1 Terminal. You will see a kiosk in the Airport you can buy a ticket. These businesses run every 45 minutes it depends when you arrive. I did get scammed on a fishing Trip in Playa Del Carmen.

[@PerezTeam]

We won't go back to Mexico. The last two times, we were stopped at the border coming back and had to drive thru their radiation x-ray machine and wait for over an hour for them to research who we were. I'm done with ever going back. It seems like it'd be easier to cross illegally.

[@annewebster3535]

The American Government installed those radiation machines at the USA Mexican Border! (like they did in the airports around the world) ttheyate from the USA Gov' Policies!) they radiate the poor farm animals and the peoples pets as well! 😳😤😥

[@dontfencemein-rving7439]

Wow! You really put fear into a lot of people. Don't allow one person's bad, ill-informed experience stop you from seeing the world. Cancun is awesome, it's relatively safe, and Mexico is a great place to visit. Know immigration and customs laws. Do your research before you travel. Don't go places you shouldn't. Stay in popular areas. Don't wander down empty streets. I would tell you this if you were going to Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Detroit, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, Atlanta, Seattle, San Francisco, Miami, Tampa, Baltimore, or Houston. Get it?

[@LeyendasMusicales]

He just need views…

[@RubenQUIROGA-k6w]

350,000,000 visit border USA Mexico 90,000,000 cars trucks one said not going Mexico ???? Call government state help you

[@bondedtogether-gilberttroy6404]

My husband is Mexican and they tried to do this to us (looks like the same drone, Mavic 2 Pro). Of course we didnt’ have the receipt either, so they tried looking it up. He talked to them fairly sternly and got a supervisor over there. They look for Americans in the lines at these checkpoints. It wasn’t until they saw we were together that they lowered the price. I think I paid maybe $20 in tax or so because we completely told them the prices they were looking up were not true. It has more to do with the total value of the items you have with you than the items themselves. If they total more than your personal allotment, then they tax you beyond that amount. They completely 100% took advantage of you traveling by yourself as an American. That’s horrific! Sorry that happened to you.

[@harryslater2587]

The fraud alerts are normal. You reply yes it was you and they rerun the charge and you are good. Happens to me all the time.

[@Dottietravels]

You can find a Forbes article titled “Traveling With A Laptop And An iPad To Mexico? Prepare To Pay Hundreds” It’s not a scam. It’s the law in Mexico. It’s not the agents fault. They were doing their job.

[@EnjoyTheJourneyLife]

Right, it may not be the agents fault. But with so many remote workers, content creators, business people traveling these days. Their list needs to be updated to catch up with modern times. And what is one good reason to limit people to bringing one computer?

[@Dottietravels]

@@EnjoyTheJourneyLife I think the idea is to tax equipment brought in for commercial purposes. The Forbes article is a good thorough analysis. The article mentions Arnold Schwarzenegger having the same problem with an expensive watch in Munich. Duty, tariffs and special taxes don’t always make logical sense but they exist in almost every modern country including the U.S.

[@gregscott4368]

I got hit with a tax going across the Canadian border. Charged me tax for my laptop and electrical testing equipment. I explained to the customs agent that this bill would just be charged to the Canadian company that I was going to but he didn't care.

[@EnjoyTheJourneyLife]

Oh wow, thanks for sharing

[@starhopper457]

Heard of this before... and we had to deal with it when traveling there for the Eclipse. Some of us filled out what is called a "carnet" to make sure that what you come in with is what you leave with, or you run the risk of them saying you are there to sell all that stuff where Mexico doesn't get their "cut". If you are traveling with less than something like $1500 of valued stuff, you don't need it but some folks brought $5000-10,000 worth of telescope gear.

[@jstanovic]

We usually arrange for a pickup with the hotel. When we clear customs, we are greeted by the driver with a sign with our name. They always help with the luggage. Very professional.

[@magornmcgoogle]

Setting up a code word or phrase with your family prior to leaving will help fight the scams.

[@casitacindy461]

they spoke english. what a scam.

[@edmorse3529]

STOP going to Mexico Tom!!!! Just asking for trouble

[@visulino]

Yes, stop going to Mexico. You don't need Mexico and Mexico does not need you. Divorce!

[@HDTRVTRAVELS]

What you were being charged sounds like an import/duty tax - best to know the rules of where you're traveling because the fact that you're a Content creator has no bearing to the Mexican Gov't. High dollar items ALWAYS have an import tax. USA also has import taxes but you need to arm yourself with Knowledge BEFORE ENTERING another country. Their country, Their rules.

[@tedwalford7615]

But if you take the items back home with you, there should be no tax, or at least a refund. You imported nothing!

[@beatrizpettus2890]

Thanks for posting this video. I was just in Cancun this week, I always travel with 2 computers my personal and work computer. This time I only took my personal laptop since I wanted to disconnect some from work otherwise I would have traveled with 2 laptops. I am so sorry for what you went through!

[@pippilongstocking-qs7fm]

I hope you are traveling from Mexico to the USA with your RV. Another content creator had their van taken at the border, hired an 'attorney' & still were denied return of their custom built van ...

[@sth7910]

Hey Tom, thanks for the heads up to inform others of the scamming. The customs people can be intimidating for sure. When i travel to Mexico the one thing I'm sure to bring is my wife. She's Mexican (became U.S. citizen in '92) and they rarely bother with 'us'. My wife is always respectful with them but we don't get run over by them. I retire in 6-8 months, got the new super duty last Christmas, looking for the right RV now. Thanks for your hard work

[@benjamintucker9829]

Any border can have this issue, back when SLR film camera were hot technology, we had to get it documented on the way into Canada. If not documented you could be charged a tariff when rentering the US

[@EnjoyTheJourneyLife]

Interesting, thanks for sharing

[@texasproud8822]

In the 90’s my father would sell commercial washers & dryers to be shipped to Mexico. We were required to ship them to arrive at a certain time so their “guy” at the border could bypass the tax man by paying their guy.

[@EnjoyTheJourneyLife]

Oh wow, thanks for sharing

[@jobiepatrick6150]

EVERY FAMILY NEEDS A SAFE WORD!

[@Mr_D555]

Mistake #1, going to Mexico.

[@Locosdelsombrero1]

Depends

[@RobJess58]

The text you showed from both credit cards ask if it was you or not just type yes and no. The they can rerun the card through and it will pass

[@momplusfive]

Crazy thing I was watching a KZbin couple in New Orleans targeted in Mexico and they took their camper van, then tried to use scamming local lawyers that took their money and pretend to get it back. You are lucky to get it back.

[@gregoryh6740]

Hey Tom , sorry you had that hiccup at Cancún with immigration but it can happen anywhere. With regards to Scams, yup , very common in Cancún as they are in any major tourist destination . Been living here ( Guanajuato, Mexico) since 2021 and I have never been happier with my decision. We do travel to Cancún often but always mindful for scams. I would suggest you and your beautiful wife to visit Puerto Vallarta… Gorgeous town with many Americans & Canadians , hardly any scams , very very safe , excellent restaurants and much more affordable than Cancún . Best of luck and keep spreading the love … Viva Mexico 🎉!!!

[@wingfloat]

Tom, i know you want to go to Mexico but NO WAY I would go now. I won’t even go after seeing tour video. This is INSANE!!! Go someplace else.

[@JustinHallowesOutdoors]

that's f#$d up. im glad they didn't do more. i was at that airport in april, and the guards with dog's walked up to me, and i simply waved towards the doors on the way out to taxi city, and kept on walking

[@tomwilliam5118]

I particularly wouldn’t wear headphones out in public since it limits your ability to be aware of your surroundings.

[@annewebster3535]

So True!

[@operationbs7610]

What were you thinking..going to mexico is not a option right now..its well known. Stay in the US..its not safe to leave.

[@gm-f5831]

Depending where you live in the US Mexico can be alot safer

[@annewebster3535]

The USA is Not Safe! 😳

[@doloresbruce3622]

Nope, stay away from there! thanks for sharing

[@EnjoyTheJourneyLife]

That's the plan!

[@JuanMa2330]

See you soon. 😂​@@EnjoyTheJourneyLife

[@pamelamargroff5836]

You sure get into some sticky situations!

[@darbydel5789]

Im not setting foot in Mexico after watching this video.

[@drophy]

It... does suck, but it's not THAT bad, specially if you don't need to travel with more than one laptop (per person) - or a drone, apparently. But, yeah, you just have to check the list of what you can take with you without paying the tax (they mostly care about electronics and expensive stuff like that, for most items one travels with it should be ok). Again, I agree it sucks, but it's not a deal breaker imo. Specially since often you won't be picked to be checked, it's just random

[@Bruce8693]

Believe it or not, I got cheated in Zürich two weeks ago, it is totally unexpected. When we got to Zurich by train, I got relaxed since I have so much respect for Zurich, so I grabbed a taxi directly instead of calling a Uber. From train station to our Airbnb place, it was about 15 min driving, the taxi meter jumped to 47.5 Swiss francs/CHF (about $55 USD). I was shocked but paid anyway just thinking Zurich is an expensive place. I checked the Uber price afterwards, it is about 18-20 CHF. Uber charged us 15 CHF from Airbnb to train station when we left. $30 overcharge may not be a big deal, but it does tell you something even in Zurich, I don’t think the taxi driver is a Schweitzer, but…. , anyway this kind of practice will hurt taxi driver’s reputation a lot. I will use Uber or Lyft no matter where I go unless I have to use normal taxi. Bad things will hit us one way or the other, we just need to try our best.

[@tomwilliam5118]

Baja Peninsula is a good place. If you stay away from the beach area, you could find some really great deals the closer to the beach the more you’re going to pay back in the 90s I stayed at a home that was $300 a month fully furnished, you were able to walk to the store to different parks and venues. They also had a shuttle that went to one of the local beaches. I tried looking up where I stayed for a couple months, but could not find the exact town. But that was a long time ago, and my memory has faded, but the experience has not.

[@Beachlovin]

I don’t understand where the “scam” comes in. It was printed on their sites, you came in with more than was allowed. Everywhere doesn’t have the freedoms we take for granted in America. Check before you go!

[@Cobbmtngirl]

What was the justification for the charge? That I haven’t seen or heard.

[@karencastle6002]

I will not go there.

[@71stMastiff]

I travel with 4 dogs never had issues. Take ADO where ever your going. Or contigo. Some hotels have shuttle services. No need to be rude you can just nod, so they will continue to bother the next person. Don’t look lost . I’m lucky my wife is Mexican. She argues with them about their scams all the time.

[@sgtfully]

I will definitely avoid Mexico. But again, never plan on going anyways.

[@mmkjijhuks1841]

Not a scam. If what you are trying to bring into the country is not on a list (that you cna find online) then you need to pay taxes on it. Lots of countries have similar taxes (US included).

[@gold3009]

Of course it is a scam but you are right lots of countries try to do this around the world (not sure if the US does it but it wouldn't surprise me anymore). If you pay them in cash they will stick the money in their own pockets.

[@mmkjijhuks1841]

@@gold3009 You get a receipt when you pay. Be aware that they will not determine the value carefully, and no country would, so if you want to enter with stuff not listed on their website keep your receipts!

[@mmkjijhuks1841]

@@gold3009 The US definitely does the same, just search for Customs Duty Information to know what you're allowed to bring into the country.

[@bbol745]

The 3 cellphones thing actually makes more sense than one would think. I have 2 phones that I carry daily. If I was traveling internationally I might take a 3rd unlocked phone to put a local sim in. Even if I didn't take a 3rd phone I also have an iPod touch that might be misinterpreted as another phone so not having to explain the difference between an iPod touch and a cellphone to people that dont speak my language would be nice.

[@elizabethchamberlain6893]

Dang! After watching this it leaves a bad vibe for traveling to Mexico. Thanks for sharing this. I hope the Mexican government and taxi operators clean up their act or they could potentially suffer financially.

[@TravelingWithSpecialAbilities]

I had a bad experience with customs in Aruba. I'll never go back or promote Aruba to anyone. I've also been to Mexico on a cruise. But had issues there, too. I'll never go back. If we stop going and they rely on tourism they will change thier ways.

[@danoc51]

I've gotten scammed in Mexico, too. It was in the shady border town of Tiajuana, by the local police. That was nearly 50 years ago and I've been back only once (for work) even though I live in SoCal, about 150 miles away. Mexico would make a FORTUNE from USA tourists if they would clean up their act. They should be ashamed of themselves. I advise everyone to avoid Mexico. I travel for pleasure and Mexico is getting none of those dollars.

[@thebluetarp]

Please chill a little bit on all the hand movement, stresses me out

[@aaronrogers1971]

This is what happens when someone the world *should* be able to trust spews nothing but bigoted, deceptive, divisive, fearful, and hateful rhetoric about our neighbors and allies.

[@ejs6010]

Had you seen the list prior to your travel? You probably could have called one of the bank cards and discussed that your charge was for real... but that would have taken quite a while to do. Also, for any foreign travel, or even domestic travel, alerting yor bank cards prior to travel letting them know where you will be should help with possible charges going through with less hassle. Hope you could enjoy your few days in Mexico.

[@laureljaneg]

I traveled to Europe I let my credit and debit card companies know I’d be traveling. One still declined small purchase and required a pin number which I did not have a train ticket. I still need to contact them and complain. Someone needs to d develop a better way, so your purchases are not declined when you’ve informed them where you’re traveling to!!

[@russrockino-rr0864]

If that had happened to me, I would never go there again!

[@AllieMetcalfgoogle]

And this surprises you how? Every government does this, every day. You got profiled and they were right, so they got their vig. Travel smarter and that wont happen as often.

[@davidnoyes3373]

Everyone needs to know the rules governing any country you travel to.

[@BlackKnight-x4c]

CBP Border partol in the USA does the same thing only instead of fees they arrested foreigners and Americans alike. I didn't have the papers from my bank months ago and they wanted to arrast me for it. The CBP harassment nearly took my child. He is now traumatized. CBP broke 2 phones and sequestered me in TX 10 months ago; they won't address the issue so I'm still here. I was homeless untill we found houseing in Texas. Drones are banned from coming into Mexico. This is normal. Credit cards often don't work on trips if they weren't notified of the trip in advance this has been the case for over 20 years. That's why u should always have travelers checks when leaving the country. they wouldn't have let you go. U would have been arrested.

[@jonn6427]

That's why I won't leave the country

[@jnotravels]

USA also has limits on what and how much you can bring back as well.

[@warrenSPQRXxl]

"bring back": That's importing something which is different than something you had both on entry and departure.

[@jnotravels]

@@warrenSPQRXxl you would have to prove that you would need receipts.

[@warrenSPQRXxl]

@@jnotravels I have never been asked to show a receipt at any border anywhere. The two computer scam is asinine.

[@jnotravels]

@@warrenSPQRXxl idk about that it's there rules and he found the website that stated such rules and just like Mexico we have the similar website with different restrictions just as every country does. If I drove down to Mexico with 3 cartons of cigarettes I would not be able bring back said cartons since the restriction clearly states 2 cartons are allowed.

[@ChrisCohrs-z6s]

@warrenSPQRXxl haven't been detained before either have you. My sister had a destination wedding in New Zealand and almost didn't bring enough proof with her showing what her main dress was made of. They almost kept it because it had feathers on it, and she had to prove they were not real. Plus, pay import tax on it due to the value of both dresses and other personal items. Every country has a list, every port checks people, and yes, it all has to do with the value of your stuff or the type of things you have in your possession. Legal or not.

[@quantumquestions5849]

Yep Mexico used to be nice to go to.

[@michaelrizzo5492]

Checking my upcoming cruises. Mexico is a no go at this point.

[@gordon3730]

Safeword. Everyone should have a safe word only you and your family know. You'll always know its your loved one. Yours is tax deductible. Who is ours if your by yourself. Honestly the list from 2017 you should've known. Its not hidden free its published. They did nothing wrong you just don't like the policy.

[@EnjoyTheJourneyLife]

Thanks for sharing.

[@ronpinto9588]

All the blah, blah, blah long before you spoke about the actual issue irritated me. No need to tell me not to watch your videos. I decided that on my own

[@stephenbrown7924]

Did you contact the American Consulate?

[@acatic80]

Well, it looks like you paid with a debit card. Call your bank and tell them it was an unauthorized transaction.

[@timj9350]

Mexico is not a destination for my family.

[@raghunathkrishnan5124]

Firstly, what you are charged seems like an import tax 💲💵 on the amount excessive of the allowed value of goods in hand, just like every other country. It doesn't matter if its used or new because you are bringing it into the country (chances are people might use this to sell goods by flying in), so they impose this rule to pay the tax. Be happy that you got a receipt with their name 8:57 and also took card payments, which you won't even get in few other countries where they take only cash to skip accountability. 👉👉 Secondly, 9:46 that message from bank is just to verify (yes/no) that if it was you because it is an international transaction and not to tell you already decidedly that it is a scam (this is based on risk scoring & ranking that each bank runs when using a card). It is an added protection for your account. It is unfortunate that you had to go through this. As a traveler, it would be good to check the customs tax system too next time.

[@hnt4fsh]

Love the Baha and not once ever had an issue

[@hiddengem2930]

Those transaction where not mark as fraud this is normally happens when a transaction price is high. The bank usually declines it till you say "yes" on the message. It has happened to me when buying gold online and buying a phone off aliexpress since it was a high price item.

[@drophy]

Ah yes, that does kind of suck. In theory, they do this to prevent people coming into Mexico with goods to sell without paying taxes to import the products. But, yes, I agree the list is limiting in some areas (3 phones for 1 person is very good, but just 1 laptop is a bit limiting - I often travel with a personal and work laptop) and outdated (1 tablet would be very reasonable, for example). They do pick people at random to check. I've gone many times and never have been picked, so being picked is a bit unlucky. They asked if you had the receipts because then they use that price as reference. Otherwise they will use whatever price they find online, which could be worse because they might pick a newer model or something. It IS sort of a scam, because sometimes it's obvious that the product is used and that it's just something yours and not something you're bringing to sell. I've heard that sometimes you can explain to them that you need to bring the 2nd laptop for your work, and the other is your personal laptop, and if they find you likable and/or you're lucky and got a nicer person, they might let you go. So, those are a couple things you can try in that situation (explain you need them for work + be kind), but they're definitely not failproof :c btw: You mentioned you can fly drones in Mexico, but I think it's a bit more nuanced. There are areas where you can't, some rules on how you can fly it, and also if your drone is heavier than X weight you also need to apply for a permission online and it's much harder for foreigners to get the permission iirc. Just FYI. For the credit cards... If you got the messages on your phone, it would've probably been better to say it is you doing the charge > using the debit card. But that's just me, because I really don't like using my debit card for safety reasons. As for the taxis... some could be legit, but I always use Uber. It's usually cheaper than in the US too, so that's nice. Would definitely suggest doing so too if you're not fluent in Spanish, as yeah, unfortunately some might try to take advantage of people who look like tourists :c

[@neilstern7108]

A friend was there got some food from a stand. He got food poisoning they would not help him they had to sneak out of the country by paying people off. If you want to die of food poisoning go to a chinese restaurant. Like i say if the drinks aren't fresh go....

[@deannawalker7022]

When you leave the country can you dispute the charges with your bank. Sorry that happened. Unfortunately a lot of the government is on the take.

[@tomvansoelen6557]

Use a credit card, never debit card. Always notify credit cards u are traveling. The $480 charge on credit card could have been disputed. U may be able to dispute the debit card charge with your bank. But much more difficult and less likely.

[@tedwalford7615]

I wonder if those tax agents are paid a percentage commission.

[@ChrisCohrs-z6s]

The list you read is a pretty common list to travel abroad. Not sure it's Mexicos fault for you not doing your research prior to traveling this ordeal you were put in could of easily been avoided with knowledge prior to traveling. Also, paying taxes on valuables happens all the time thats why they say bring the reciept. The only one person that was in the wrong was you. Lucky they only charged you tax instead of taking the property.

[@EnjoyTheJourneyLife]

Right, I shared the video as a travel mistake. But with so many remote workers, content creators, business people traveling these days. Their list needs to be updated to catch up with modern times. And what is one good reason to limit people to bringing one computer?

[@ChrisCohrs-z6s]

@EnjoyTheJourneyLife it comes down to the value of assets you're traveling with. This is why the documentation of purchases is recommended. The us has an 800.00 dollar limit on those things, I've had to declare and pay us taxes on items brought back in the past just because i didn't have evidence i left the us with them. The two laptops and the drone could very easily be valued over that, and without proof of purchase in the US, you would have paid tax again. You're lucky you didn't get audited on the return trip. You mentioned in the video that due to this situation, you most likely won't travel back and said they basically held you hostage while you were trying to figure it out. It is entirely your fault for not taking the time to provide yourself with the knowledge ahead of time. You were just were the lucky one to be picked for an audit. You placed a lot of blame in the video on Mexicos port of authority for following the rules because they enforce you to follow them. I enjoy watching your videos, and they are informative I just believe you took the wrong approach to this one and placed blame instead of saying hey I screwed up, and to keep from you doing it also make sure you investigate what you can and can't bring into the countries prior to traveling or this bad situation can happen to you as well. I do agree the lists are very reduculous and are not representative to today's world, as a smoker you pointed out my biggest pet peeve while traveling because I have no idea if I'm going to be somewhere for more than a week how my addiction to smoking is going to be handled in cost or avalibility and it's pretty nerve wrecking.

[@warrenSPQRXxl]

I have traveled extensively and never encountered this Mexican scam. The only thing close was Russia directly following the fall of the Soviet Union where you had to list everything you brought in (including things such as wedding rings) which could be compared to what you have on departure. This is entirely different than importing something to be left in that country or limits on taxed items such as alcohol and tobacco. Shame on Mexico.

[@duanejackson3640]

​​@@ChrisCohrs-z6soh please, they have so many scams going on down there. I had never heard of any of this. They seem to pick out who to scam with this.

[@jellybean7253]

Storytime. Hurricane... Lights go out, but, while there is no internet, no power, NADA, I have my battery charger, DVD and CD USB player, and I am entertained for the whole time until power comes back on while everyone that relies on "everything's digital" were trying to find english books and magazines. Old school won the day. Also, I have three phones, iPhone, Android and a basic emergency flip phone that always stays in my bag. In other words, there are lots of people that do things differently than you do Tom. Quit trying to make it weird. Everyone has different ideas about how to live their lives.

[@josenieves9165]

I’ve been to Mexico several times in the past but not sure I want to go now especially since Mexico has been very friendly with China and Russia

[@robertmcdonald9280]

I say go back next year, from what i heard there only rasing the price to $650.00 to cover inflation. I'm in El Paso Texas.

[@JeffGarrison-xz9qq]

Keep your hard working job money in the U.S.A forget about other Cartel areas.

[@frankgraham699]

This doesn’t happen when you don’t have a flowerpot for a President

[@CPO-Snarky]

😂

[@susanpratt3290]

I am so sorry to hear this happened to you. I haven't planned on going to Mexico, or any foreign country. But Mexico is not on my list of places to visit. I also have not been on a plane in years and have not missed flying anywhere since 2011. Nice drone video. Hope you get home without any more issues. They sure are finding ways to discourage Americans and others from visiting their country if they keep that non-sense up. Mexico needs to get after these fraudsters who will drive tourists away, not just from the US but from anywhere in the country.

[@STKatz]

I’m Mexican and I know you can only travel with one laptop. Whenever you travel anywhere in the world, you need to do your research. You’re only allowed to bring goods worth a certain amount of money. You have to understand people bring goods to resell in Mexico. The U.S. does the same. I was told I can only bring avocados in a container where the avocados are smashed, not cut in half or cubed🤡. But the rules are there for a reason even if they sound ridiculous to you.

[@davidew98]

First, don’t ever get a bus or taxi at the curb of the airport. Always setup a bus or taxi at the counter in the airport. Also setup your rental at the counter of a known rental company. I did not know this BS about vat! Glad I didn’t get nailed for my tablet that’s not on the list!

[@EnjoyTheJourneyLife]

Thanks for sharing!