TEXAS/MEXICO Border Towns Drive: The CRAZY Things I Saw Between McAllen And Falcon Lake

In this video I drove along the Texas/Mexico border, starting just outside McAllen and ending at Falcon International Reservoir. There were many interesting things to see along the route.
Towns visited:
Penita's, Texas
La Joya, Texas
La Grulla, Texas
Garciasville, Texas
Rio Grande City, Texas
Roma, Texas
Falcon Heights, Texas
Travel Video 148

[@johnallen6945]

Cool report. I lived in Tucson, Arizona, back in the '60s. We used to go down to Nogales all the time and Mexicans came into Tucson all the time. If you got away from the road there wasn't even any border fence. People walked back and forth whenever they needed to. No big deal. I spoke Spanish as did many of my fellow Americans in the area. We got along just fine and I had many delicious meals in Mexican homes. Wonderful people who would give you the shirt off their back.

[@barano9729]

Its the criminals that spoil the mood. Look at Chicago or New York where fellow US citizens mostly criminals committing a majority of the atrocities.

[@violetahernandez6576]

thank you for saying about us positive side. Now days everything changed, but I believe it is s because MX. became the bridge for south Americans crossing trying to come to USA. Also many of these migrants are staying in MX. Thank you ❤

[@grandwonder5858]

​@@violetahernandez6576 I hate to say it but it is the US government that causes most Central Americans to flee their own country into Mexico and the US. You see, the US government assassinates and overthrows many of these Central American countries' governments due to a desire to put in a government that would be more willing to take orders from the US government. Of course, this causes great distresses to the Central American people and causes lots of in-fighting among the people against each other and their government, which destabilizes their countries and causes them to leave their own country into the US and Mexico for a better life. If you understand how the US government operates in other countries like I do you can't help but feel some sympathy for those people who are fleeing their own country into the US and Mexico.

[@Imagineitisraining]

​@@violetahernandez6576I would think that Americans don't have any bad feeling about Mexicans. Like you said, it's people from all over the world trying to cross into our country that's the problem.

[@pzj2017]

Yes, agreed. That's the Mexicans I know to.

[@allenmetzger9922]

I moved to McAllen/Mission 8 and a half years ago (Originally from Ohio/Michigan) and over the years I just laugh at the perception my family up north have of this area. I love it here for a lot of reasons. I'll never move back up north. I enjoyed your video.

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Thank you, Allen.

[@jarekb8622]

If I may ask what we’re some of the conceptions they had? As someone living here I always love hearing what people think the Rio Grande Valley is like

[@joecool8808]

Puro 956?

[@suecook1326]

We're from NW Ohio and RV'ed for years. The RGV was our favorite place so we settled here then, in Weslaco. Don't miss Ohio a bit. I probably miss trips to the UP more than Ohio!

[@allenmetzger9922]

@@suecook1326 This place is a hidden Gem. So close to SPI and NO SNOW lol. Although I do miss the Upper Peninsula, especially for Deer hunting and Smelt dipping. I grew up in Cleveland but my parents are both from West Michigan. I spent a lot of time in Michigan. I miss Holland, Grand Haven, Traverse....even Grand Rapids...but only in the summer.

[@RaulRamirezdrummer]

Roma native here, the observation deck overlooking the Rio Grande was built by my uncle. Im really glad you've taken the time to showcase the Rio Grande Valley

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

That is cool! :)

[@rafaeltorre1643]

@repentandbelieveinJesusChrist1 Jesus didn’t speak English. I would quote his actual words as primary sources are the only truth. Not human translation. Even my own mom quotes me wrong, much less a stranger.

[@jayc4715]

My uncle beat up Mike Tyson in a bar in McAllen back in 82

[@eltinygarcia7358]

​@@JoeandNicsRoadTripyou should come to California.

[@arielgonzalez1851]

I loved that you drove through Salineno!!! My grandfather was born there in 1932 and he is buried there along with all of his ancestors! My great great great grandfather, Valentin Chapa, was born there in 1831, when Texas was still part of Mexico. My grandmother would tell us stories of how they would bathe when she was little in the Rio Grande in that exact same spot that you stood at.

[@citizenway]

Wow!

[@thesheep6315]

Just curious does your family still speak Spanish?

[@edgardiaz690]

@@thesheep6315some families only know Spanish

[@rodairungu801]

Hello, I live in Africa and I must say that this is what we never see in our media and movies . A coin has two sides and its good that we see the other side of America. You do a great job, thank you

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Thank you, Roda!

[@stephoh2695]

I live about 15 minutes from McAllen, thanks for representing the Mexican-American culture here, showing that we really aren’t what the media portrays us to be c:

[@kiklocus4660]

mcallen has beautiful hispanic culture, super friendly and nice people with great food.

[@13juju]

Agree 10000000000%, Stupid Media!!!!!

[@amandamitchell7622]

I agree, always get to know things and people for yourself.

[@valerieherron4185]

Most people know this

[@honeytoone8610]

@@kiklocus4660ow do they portray y’all? I guess I don’t watch the typical news. I used to live in Corpus Christi for 26 years. We used to go to Progresso once a month. I miss it!

[@flugelberger]

I dunno why KZbin showed me this channel. I'm in the UK (for my sins) but I am finding wandering round Texas ghost towns and border crossings strangely compelling.

[@chrispurse3931]

I used to haul cattle off the border. Del Rio, Presidio, Santa Teresa, Columbus. Hauled the majority to Kansas. Ran into quite a few BP guys. They were always cool and respectful every time they inspected me. Loved the Santa Teresa run because we could walk across the border corrals and eat authentic Mexican grub. Steak and all the fixings and fresh homemade tortillas and a Mexican COKE for $4.95.

[@violetahernandez6576]

❤my grandpa was a sweet quiet gentleman, who worked for a miners company 'Frisco for many years. He used to be an electric engineer specialized in mines where my grandpa n my dad worked as engineers specialized in the drawing maps for mines construction. we loved our grandpas Louis Lafitte all of them are now in heaven❤

[@johnallen6945]

I remember back in the day I was co-driving a heavy-duty pick-up that hauled a 40-ft. flatbed trailer behind. The owner and co-driver bought antique furniture from farmhouses in the mid-west and sold them for a good profit in LA. Anyhow, we were down around Riudoso, NM, and the next thing I knew I woke up in the cab in Hereford, TX. I Opened my eyes and there must have been 100,000 head of cattle standing around me behind wire fences as far as the eye could see. And not a single "moo" out of any of them. They just stood there staring at me. Weird memory. But yeah, you could get beans and tortillas for a dollar and chili in the US is not the same as chili in Mexico. Hard to beat good Mexican food.

[@linda-zr2ly]

Cows are very curious. They were just checking in case you had brought them some cubes.

[@Llkdd1987]

Mexican coke for 4.95 ? I gotta find a new dealer

[@rafaeltorre1643]

@@johnallen6945 Yes “Chile” completely different.

[@samwalker7821]

When I go on vacation this is exactly what I do. I want to see areas that are off the beaten path, not the advertised tourist areas. It can be a little dangerous driving in the unknown areas but it's what I call fun. Driving around with you was a real gas! Thanks for the ride!

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

I'm the exact same way, Sam! :)

[@Honeycomblife]

Me tooo

[@janoswimpffen7305]

I'm sure that everyone watching these videos is waaay too young to understand what the name Del Rio means to anyone who grew up in the 60s or for that matter anyone around in the 50s, 40s, 30s. I speak of Border Radio. Before Spotify and car CDs people actually listened to radio and before album oriented rock became common on FM it was AM radio. As there were no limits on a radio station's power in Mexico several American entrepeneurs built super powerful radio stations just across the border, the most famous being XERA in Ciuded Acuna. Their signal was so powerful that they could be heard as far as New York, Chicago, and west into the mountains. In later years (1960s) they were the home of radio personalities such as Wolfman Jack who played rock that commerical radio did not play. One of the biggest contributions was the spread of country music to a wider audience. In the early days radio station had live performances as well as playing records and stars of the day flocked to Del Rio from there the commuted across the river to sing in the studio. For a short time before there was a Nashville, Nashville was in Del Rio.

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Interesting. Great, informative comment!

[@vanyakouveli3113]

Amazing info about culture & history of the past👍👏

[@motowngirl5891]

Here in Detroit we had CKLW WINDSOR/Detroit It could be heard all the way to Kentucky

[@motowngirl5891]

Unbelievable footage, thanks Joe

[@motowngirl5891]

Thank you so much Always wanted to go to these towns

[@daviddecelles8714]

You naturally hesitated before proceeding on that narrow dirt road; but your willingness to "go the extra mile" proved very well worth it both for you and for your loyal audience. You were taken at ground level to the very edge of the Rio Grande at a spot that looked eminently navigable for just about any fit person and utterly absent any security patrol. Your pertinacity flushed out an obvious leak in the security dike--and you got to dip your toes in the sacred waters! Thanks too for getting out twice in Roma at higher elevation perches to let us see the great river and the Mexican town right next to it. Another rewarding and informative video.

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Thank you, David. You're one of the best writers living, btw!! :)

[@ericabalderas]

It is still in use, I use to go there when I was a kid with my Great Grandfather. He helped build it, he passed away at 109 years old.

[@user-ry6oh9xn1u]

Every time I visit the RGV, I drive the farm roads between the many small towns in Willacy, Cameron, and Hidalgo counties. It gets the "big city life" out of me. Love the Tex-Mex food.

[@JRMcDowell]

That side trip paradise you found is called Salineño, the place you drove up too and put your hand in the Rio is the Salineño Wildlife Preserve. People rent out their horses out here to cut the grass. they tie them off and allow them to graze. its popular just south of San Antonio, you'll see it in Poteet and all the small towns in the area.

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

It's beautiful there.

[@Dmitry_K1082]

Hello from Moscow! Those villages look just like the ones you can find in Russia. Except, there are palms instead of birch trees. Amazing! Like your video.

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Thank you, Thrilla!

[@rexsamodio6404]

@@JoeandNicsRoadTrip good refreshing countysides in most remote rural areas in the USA 🇺🇸 from Philippines 🇵🇭

[@texasforever7887]

You were being watched constantly. Either by camera, drone or binoculars plus motion sensors. You just didn't notice They absolutely knew who you were and deemed you a low threat after running your plates to see who you were so left you alone.

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Yes, I figured that as well. I didn't get a second look from BP or the Guard as I drove along the border from Matamoros to Eagle Pass.

[@pearlchristian7072]

Wow

[@Really658]

​@@JoeandNicsRoadTrip if I was law enforcement I would think you were one of us. Eeriely quiet. When that dog didn't bark that was the owner seeing you and telling the dog to be good. Very strange.

[@Really658]

So true.

[@catamazing5631]

Thank you for this video. I am old, pretty much isolated at home so it has been a pleasure for me to see these places. Can't wait until the next video!!

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Thank you, catamazing! I do these videos for folks like you. :)

[@LostInSouthTx]

that’s cool that you came to the real SOUTH Tx. RGV PURO PINCHE 956❤️‍🔥🌴

[@empressv8163]

Thanks, my first and only time seeing this part of Texas!

[@duchesserickson4069]

Fascinating tour of the border towns. Really love the little chapel and church, the interesting old buildings too. Never knew they had Border Patrol blimps! The butterflies down by the Rio Grande River were kind of magical. Cool video!

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Thank you for the kind words, Duchess!

[@reginaparks3197]

Due to the large number of sundown counties in Texas, I have been able to trace many relatives who fled south to the border towns. McAllen was one of those where we located many graves of my relatives. There were equal number who crossed the border and lived on the other side of Falcon Lake. When I visited that area it was really nice and peaceful. At that time, we just took a boat ride across the lake visited sites and then came back. It was a nice visit.

[@SoTxMuscle]

Military Hwy was named for the Calvary that would ride horseback in the 1800's along the Rio Grande. They would travel between Ft Brown (Brownsville) , Ft Ringgold (Rio Grande City) and Ft McIntosh (in Laredo). All forts are still there today.

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Interesting. I was wondering why it was called that.

[@Unbridled13]

Recently moved to Brownsville. Great information. I live about a mile from where Military Road starts. Now I know. Thank you. 😊

[@barbaracarpenter1260]

Hon, it's CAVALRY. THOSE WERE SOLDIERS. CALVARY is where Jesus was nailed on the cross

[@SoTxMuscle]

carpenter oops yes your right.

[@realessayog6947]

@J Rassler now this is the type of history I love learning

[@adamwaygood9852]

I love your videos, as an Australian it’s just so very interesting.. Love the huge streets and old buildings in those old towns..

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Glad you're here, Adam.

[@Bobby-dh7ez]

Joe, you do a spectacular job of showcasing rural, small town America for those of us whose current situation allows us little or no time to pursue such endeavors. I've been watching you since your "Spoda" days (at least a year or so) and I always feel like I'm getting a civics/social studies lesson as well as a very well produced pictorial essay to towns and places I may never have the privilege of witnessing in the flesh. I, myself, have many future aspirations to conduct a similar, albeit, personally unique, reconnoitering of the "State -of-the-Union". A very heartfelt and deserved thank you is necessary for the dedication and hard work...the thankless time spent doing the due-diligence, the history and the research to enrich the videography. Thank you, sir!....On a different note, I can't help but notice the (sometimes multiple) satellite dishes on some of the most decrepit, run-down shacks....Seems to speak volumes on perspective, doesn't it?

[@dirkwyse1609]

I concur! thank you

[@kentk9360]

I used to put my boat in at Chimney Park to water ski on the river in the late 70’s (I lived in McAllen). The palm trees marked boundary lines of people’s property. There were no border walls back then. Thanks for the video it brought back old memories.

[@Blesdfa]

37:57 This grocery store used to be run by an old man which I forgot his name by now :( unfortunately he passed a while back and it’s been closed ever since. The motel you filmed is still owned and operated by the parents of my best friend. His father is a fisherman and leads fishing trips around falcon as well as Mexico. I remember back in elementary school the bus stop would drop my friend, brother and I off at the grocery store. We would stop by grab some snacks and head to my friends house and hangout all day. I can still remember walking to the store and how great it felt to be a kid back then.

[@surinfarmwest6645]

I was expecting Clint Eastwood and Lee Van Cleef to jump out of the bushes at times. Love the fact you got down to the river, what a perfect place for a spot of fishing with some sandwiches and a flask of tea.

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

It was a really nice place.

[@dontworrybehappy8080]

@@nitromartini1422 There's an old saying, 'the freaks come out at night'. Its probably pitch black at night. But I'll bet the stars pop out.

[@johnferguson5318]

The border is a wonderful place. I am glad you were pleasantly surprised with the tranquility.

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

I'm really enjoying it.

[@johnferguson5318]

In my border community the Border Patrol and local law enforcement carry out their missions. We also maintain warm relations with those who reside across the border in Mexico. Because of this, we enjoy a very comfortable existence. How many guns civilians own has very little correlation with the safety in our border community.

[@barano9729]

I can document my ancestors existence on that stretch of land dating back to the 1860s. How and when did we become illegal. lol.

[@donnabrown6062]

The RGV has its good and bad like any other place.Everyting that's going on down here we Valleyites are used to it everyday occurrences.

[@patsmeal6814]

This by far was one of the most interesting and informative videos that you have done. I haven't watched all of your videos YET, but from the ones I have watched, this is #1. Keep them coming.

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Wow, thank you, Pat!

[@FUBAR956]

In Los Ébanos you missed the opportunity to see the only hand operated ferry crossing into Mexico. I would love to see Rio Grande City invest on preserving their old historic buildings. Many date back to before the Civil War and to a time where the Rio Grande River was a lot closer to where it is today.

[@jthedarkwolfxtreem]

Same but they don't like their own history and sell it off to the highest bidder, the history that is protected only belongs to civil war sadly.

[@MTknitter22]

Yes much history is already gone and would be great to preserve more

[@janisbarnard]

Lived down there as a child and loved the Los Ebanos Ferry. So glad you mentioned it.

[@silvestrealvarez3355]

Nice! im from roma and its nice to see someone taking an interest in border towns. I used to spend alot of my time at that birdwatch since my grandma lived right on the corner.

[@sion-d1545]

Wow I was born in McAllen Tx almost 70 years ago and have never been there 🇺🇸. Amazingly calm🙏. My mom was born in McAllen 87 yrs ago and now she wants to see the fence.

[@georgeandershock4904]

Was waiting for what was so crazy lol. I live in the McAllen area and lived in laredo for 12 years. Hope the people watching don’t think the border towns are all run down vacant cities. Great people and amazing food. The cities are modern and updated so it doesn’t look like an old western movie lol

[@bella91164]

I was wondering the exact same thing. What were the crazy things he saw? Those look like normal things to see in small border towns. Residents of these towns are usually humble people.

[@45AMT]

Recording anything from a public space or road, is First Amendment protected activity. No matter if boarder patrol or the Military likes it or not. Great video! You don't disappoint! thanks for taking us on your travels.

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Thank you for the kind words, RR. :)

[@freezingcathedral]

common misconception. first 5 words of the 1st amendment are "congress shall make no law". they're not congress and they're not making a law. they 100% are able to take and smash your camera, only thing they could be charged with is destruction of private property.

[@edwardmiessner6502]

@@JoeandNicsRoadTrip and if you ever go through a border crossing or get stopped by a border patroller, be sure to keep that camera running! It may protect you from harm, unlawful arrest, and worse! The 1st Amendment protects your right to do so

[@alibeck1383]

@@edwardmiessner6502 Are you a lawyer? Obv not... WHO CAN YOU RECORD? You have a constitutional right to record all law enforcement officers in the course of their performance of public duties in public places at all times, so long as you do not interfere with the officers in any way. Interfering could include stepping out of your car or failing to follow the instructions of a Border Patrol or Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer. Your right may be subject to reasonable restrictions, even in public places, if they are not traditionally open for public speech and debate, or if the government has special security concerns. HOW CAN YOU RECORD? You can make an audio or video recording, take a photograph, or any combination of these. If you record openly, you may be subject to further questioning, detention, or seizure of your recording device.

[@069751]

All these drug addicts comments on "you can record for your safety bro"

[@eliseoleahy4229]

Beautiful little chapel. Love those old vehicles and architecture. Sad level of deserted homes.

[@cebudave]

I'm 51 and never been to America, I'm really loving these great videos, and hope to visit sometime.

[@scaredy-cat]

All respect for boarder patrol and all who protect our country

[@paulachannell4296]

Crossed the border @ Larado/ Nuveao, bout 20 yrs ago ,lucky we make it back .something to c for sure.

[@teresagranza1598]

Yep, I'm one of the ones who would never go on some of the streets and roads you travel! Thanks for taking us all along.

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Glad you're coming along, Teresa!

[@dontworrybehappy8080]

I'm right with you there.

[@alyssavillarreal8102]

LOVE HOW YOU EXPOSE MY HOUSE WITH NO FOUNDATION, not the best looking house but its paid off

[@houseofsolomon2440]

Many homes in flood zones are on pier block / stilt. It's common & not a sign of poverty in the least.

[@charlietaylor6389]

I wish my house was on blocks. I’d raise it up mine is a slab when the water comes up we start sand bagging. RGV 👍

[@tr4u5mp90]

Toda feelings...chill. most homes in the valley are sitting on cinder blocks.

[@jenniferdaulby5519]

Homes on stilts are common in the more tropical parts of Australia. By the way I thought your home looked very pretty. Best wishes from Australia 🇦🇺 ❤

[@leticialopez6399]

Espero q entiendan mi lenguaje español yo tengo 45añis de vivir aqui en el valle soy de Reymosa cruzando la frontera y q bueno q nos toman en cuenta porq pareciera q estamos olvidados nuestros pueblitos son chicos pero muy acogedores con gente buena y trabajadora gad tenemos todo para sobrevivir y si aqui se da muncho la cazeria de inmigrantes masxq en estados grandes pero igual cada quien hace su trabajo y se puede decir llevamos una vida tranquila y bien venidos todos quienes vengan a conocer la vida del RGV

[@tr4u5mp90]

I've been to Reynosa several times before the cartels invaded.. I loved staying over the weekends with relatives. Most relatives moved to Texas.

[@porfirioflores2921]

YO SOY DE REYNOSA PERO YA TENGO MUCHO TIEMPO SIN IR PARA ALLA ME GUSTARIA IR UN DIA SIN TENER QUE TENER MIEDO A NADA COMO ERA ANTES QUE ANDABAS EN LA CALLE A LA HORA QUE FUERA Y NADIE TE DECIA NADA IR A DISFRUTAR UNA CENA A LA CALLE DEL TACO COMO VULGARMNENE SE LE CONOCIA A LA CALLE OAXACA EN LA COLONIA RODRIGUEZ

[@rosabelzarate3858]

Saludos Reynosa, desde la Grulla, TX. Casi vecinos!👋

[@juan-cv6pk]

Hola Leticia. Como Te va ? Soy de argentina y estoy interesado en esa zona de EEUU. Por ejemplo mc Allen . Es un buen lugar para vivir ?

[@leticialopez6399]

Hola juan claro q si se puede vivir bien aqui el problema es de que aqui no se gana lo suficiente los sueldos no son iguales q en otros estados pero de q se puede se puede yes seguro hay de todo gad

[@lmmmmmmm]

It's always nice to see people from other places visit McAllen and All these beautiful cities I live in mission which is right close to McAllen and seeing people visit our towns is just amazing to see

[@donnabrown6062]

I live in Mission too, I live across from the speed memorial library, graduated from Mission high school

[@ilovekimtaehyung]

@@donnabrown6062 I love the neighborhood by the Speer memorial library. Looks so peaceful

[@sarge2498]

I've been to numerous border towns from Arizona to Texas on work trips. It's amazing to see the culture change as you approach them. I had an interesting encounter with Border Patrol on one of my excursions. Great vid...

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

It’s true, it’s very different next to the border. Every time I passed border patrol or the National Guard guys I would wave and only get a long, cold, hard stare in return. It was kind of freaky. Thank you for the great comment, Sarge.

[@edwardmiessner6502]

Was your experience with BP pleasant or were they "sons of beeches"? (KZbin censorship)

[@Laura-nm3rn]

Thank you for sharing all these border town videos. They’ve been very interesting, especially that last place you went to where you were able to go down to the water.

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Thank you, Laura. More are coming! :)

[@CaptainHowdy1969]

Hey Spoda...I love the little side trip you made and the reward you treated us to as you exited the trusty bronco to dip your hand into the Rio Grande...

[@alexandralovesgoats3360]

Another great video! Thank you! I really hope that horse had access to water. The deserted area you found by the RG was gorgeous ! Some nice interesting houses too. Looking forward to more videos!

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Thank you for the great comment, Alexandra! :)

[@sallyapplegate4591]

Loved this one. The river and little communities are wonderful and so peaceful!!! Thank you.

[@dennisnull4613]

I lived in Starr County for 10 years 1950-1960. So much history that you by passed. The Rio was navigable during the 1800s with steamboat traffic from Brownsville to Roma and maybe Zapata.. I fished and camped out at Facon on "both sides" the dam was built while I lived there and was opened by President Eisenhower.

[@steveboyd582]

You brought back some memories. My dad worked for the IBWC and was transfered to Falcon in the early 70's. We lived in the Government Village where the silver water tower is at. I remember riding my bike to Circle R store to buy fishing supplies and other things. I fished many times with my dad at the river in Salineno where you were at. Went to 4th thru 6 grade in Roma. Falcon Heights used to be a busy place back then with alot of people coming to fish.

[@janiecasanova9964]

My son is currently working at the border... he's in the national guard... and yes they take their job very serious

[@philliphall5198]

Things can turn ugly very fast close to border and it’s dangerous to not be known by locals

[@texasmemaw3779]

Please tell your son thank you for his service! Praying for all enforcement at our border and their families!

[@ccc1362]

@@texasmemaw3779 they need it under the current administrative

[@brianrussell9419]

Great video that has given me an idea of what to expect coming down 83 with our fifth wheel toyhauler from Calgary in November…….. After seeing this video & reading comments we’ve decided to go another route further from the border down to Brownsville area . Thankyou

[@brendamercado1191]

You literally went through every place I lived at lol My mom lives near la joya, she’s in Abram rd. I’ve lived in Mission since I was 14, I’m 37 now and still live here. To be honest all the places you went through, not only is it historic, but it’s also haunted 😅

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

That's cool!

[@jeffalbillar7625]

Your husband is a lucky man

[@brendamercado1191]

@@jeffalbillar7625 Why?

[@jeffalbillar7625]

@@brendamercado1191 because you're beautiful

[@brendamercado1191]

@@jeffalbillar7625 I appreciate that 👍🏽

[@no-bitches]

Yep, when my ex and I went to the Rio Grande, the Border Patrol drove up to us at an empty park a lot like that one. That's why you won't see anyone there. I guess they're just doing their jobs, but they almost bully people into not being there. It's a shame.

[@nousername2942]

One day we won't feel the need to be so tight assed about an arbitrary line on a map.

[@rafaeltorre1643]

@@nousername2942 Yep. Country lines will always go back and forth in time. Just as it has for thousands of years.

[@m.redleg252]

@@nousername2942 Yeah one day we'll actually defend our border so the US stops sinking into the realm of 3rd world.

[@nousername2942]

@@m.redleg252 Stop destabilizing other countries and they won't need to come here lol

[@m.redleg252]

@@nousername2942 LOL swing and a miss. Im sure the cartels have NOTHING to do with it nor does the current occupant of the white house sending open invitations to just come on over and vote for him.

[@Afrodizyak47]

Interesting and enjoyable; thanks for the time in both travelling and filming.

[@alexisg.1413]

Greetings from Rio Grande city , glad to see our town on KZbin! Hope you enjoyed passing by!

[@darkvader8244]

This was GREAT! Thank you so much I have always wanted to go down that way to wander.

[@ambermartinez2616]

I'm from the Rio Grande Valley, our first/New home is being built very close to the butterfly park that you drove past in Mission. This was so cool to see!

[@tr4u5mp90]

For those people who don't live near the border let me explain. The reason why the National Guard and Border Patrol don't like getting filmed or might come up as rude is because cartels operate heavily in the area. Cartels have scouts that do exactly what this KZbinr does (filming)with the exception that they report to cartels; check point locations, patrol rotations, personnel numbers and locations. Many BP agents and guardsmen are from the area and wouldn't want cartels to know their identities.

[@elcomanche4422]

Find another profession. They are public officials.

[@texasmemaw3779]

Thank you for explaining for all the "smart" people on here who think they know what's going on. Also, the job is hard enough without idiots coming down trying to catch them doing something wrong? Just like the report about the BP whipping migrants? NEVER happened! Check the DOJ. You may have to dig because they most likely buried it but it did NOT happen!

[@tr4u5mp90]

@@texasmemaw3779 Exactly...

[@velmarice8501]

Where are the stores, banks and markets, why don't the people at the boader tru to build some homes , start a community in area near the chapel or is that private property? It so sad ,so many homeless trying to escape, don't some have skills, to build near the border.

[@susanlongb4]

And look up Border patrol agent arrested and see what you find

[@short-hand4312]

I ran a few rural health clinics along there, and I drove those back roads many times. brought back a lot of memories.

[@georgeh8535]

The horse is an earth friendly lawn mower he will graze on what can be eaten and they will move him.

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

That's a good point!

[@RustyX2010]

same with sheep and goats

[@Markus_Andrew]

I'm finding your series of border drive videos to be some of the most interesting you have done, truly fascinating viewing 👍

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Wow, thank you, Markus. There's more coming!

[@user-gx2tl5ii3q]

Cool exploration there! How splendid it is to let that curiosity guide all the way along!

[@gonagain]

Thanks for the tour, I enjoyed it!

[@Yzabeaux1]

WOW! What an experience! 😁👍🏻 Thank you for all your hard work. It is genuinely appreciated.😁👍🏻

[@marmar5831]

did you miss the international ferry crossing in los ebanos? It's the only hand pulled international ferry in the U.S. where the cars get pulled across to mexico by hand using a cable attached to a big old tree. You drove past it at minute 16:48 in the video where the lady with the blue grocery bag is walking.

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

II was aware there is a place where the cars are pulled over by hand. I didn’t know that was the place. Dang. Wish I hadn’t missed that. ☹️

[@romansalinasjr]

That sucks bro you were 100 yards from it

[@JesseDeLira]

Yes, you did missed the Los Enanos Ferry , I was hoping you would find it by mistake, that would of been awesome! Used to ride my bicycle across when I was a teenager, all the way from Sullivan City.

[@KrisHalverson]

The ferry is anchored to an ebony tree by a cable which the ferrymen use to hand pull the barge loaded with cars and people across the river. Cost 50 cents to ride. Not big enough to haul the hords coming to steal your stuff.

[@melvapryor9868]

I wish you had gone to the butterfly place!

[@jennylynn82173]

Such an interesting exploration! Loving getting to ride along! Thank you!!!

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Thank you, Jennifer.

[@isaacmedina2957]

Great video i live in Penitas the town is bigger but not many people live that close to the border due to flooding and such but the town is a little bigger to the north of that. Love seeing all the drive straight through backroads

[@carl9826]

Super super interesting exploring! I enjoy your adventures very much!👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👌🏼👌🏼💚

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Thank you for that, Carl!

[@michaelgreen4838]

Watch a lot different videos filmers but you do it a whole different way! AND I LIKE IT!!!

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Wow, thank you, Michael! :)

[@dgrn101]

Excellent video.! I used to drive truck to the border between Brownsville, TX and Nogales, AZ and I'd always tell people that never been that whatever they picture in their mind about what the border looks like they were completely wrong. There are more things out there that raise questions without answers such as a horse tied up in the middle of nowhere

[@mikesummerfield5051]

Another great video! I am amazed by the border and what it looks like!

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Thank you for watching, Mike. :)

[@capwolfster]

Love my home area. Theres a lot of nice scenery, interesting locations, history, entertainment. Im lucky enough to get to explore often

[@capwolfster]

Never had chance to drive down all of military though, this was nice. Should check out the east side of of the rgv too!

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

I will be before winter is over. :)

[@georgecowdry3545]

Four years ago my son and I drove along the US Mexico border from Langtry to the west, twice we questioned as to what we were doing by Border Patrol officers both times they were extremely polite and friendly, we did have one advantage very pronounced rural accents from south west England, it was the start of a 3 week 5500 mile tour of the rural south west of the US. Two nations divided by a common language.

[@PatKennedydon]

I love your videos, never been to the states but you show the places where not many will show. Keep up the great work.

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Thank you, Pat. That's the idea! :)

[@Tahoe832]

Thank you for the great tour. Very interesting for sure.

[@rajeevdeshpande7666]

Hi Lord Spoda Enjoyed morning drive with you. Classic! 33:00 to 35:00 is the essence of it all. Driving on the lonely dirt roads needs a real passion, courage and determination. Bravo! Thanks for the video. Waiting for the next one. Good luck!

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Thank you for the kind words as usual, Rajeev!! :)

[@fontourahoofcare6433]

Hi Lord🙋🏻‍♂️ Leonardo here i’m from Brasil. I loved your trip along the Mexican border!!! In 2019 I was with my family on vacation in Playa Del Carmen

[@daveward4462]

Another great video. Not as many inappropriate ads for me this time. Looking forward to a future video of you guys. Hope you guys and all the family have a great Christmas and new year.

[@EmiliaGarcia-sh1my]

Enjoyed the video, thanks for sharing ❤️😊

[@JOHN-ht6zc]

THANKS FOR THE VIDEO ,I NEVER SEEN STUFF LIKE THIS ONLY IN MOVIES I LOVE YOUR VIDEOS ...

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Thank you for watching, John. :)

[@GameTime-yj6qv]

Very nice to see my home area in your video. It's beautiful and historic. The Mexican city across Roma is called Miguel Aleman. I have family that lives there. Used to go often as a kid.

[@chrishaas3160]

Awesome . Thanks. .. The amount of information you give is hard work , thanks .

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Thank you for that, Chris.

[@javiergonzalez8941]

The small border fences look short from the us side as they have the levy build up to fence but on the Mexican side it’s over 20ft. Grew up in the valley in penitas it was peaceful as what you see in video. River was alway calm and not much activity. It does have its moments with activity.

[@churro_gonzalez]

My friend and I drove close to the RV park but decided not to enter due to Border Patrol being at the gate. We just wanted to see the Rio Bravo. We aren’t locals and we are both from Dallas. Good thing your video shows how it looks like.

[@davidwhite1645]

Dip you feet and hand into the waters of the Rio Grande. Thanks so much for another virtual tour of small-town Texas.

[@user-ry6oh9xn1u]

Joe, glad you made the trip to South Texas, originally Mexico. The Rio Grande Valley is a rural splendor to experience. I should know, since I was born in that part of Texas. One day I will return to spawn and die. In the meantime, I am enjoying life in sunny San Diego, for 52 years now .

[@bshoke]

the river is being monitored even when you dont see it i put kayaks in at El rio park you can camp there and take a dip in the river too in Chapeno, Texas and come out in Salineño the location you did not know the name of, and when they cant tell what you are doing on the river they send helicopters and when they see youre not up to anything they turn around.

[@mrs.daniellequintanilla4635]

i’m half mexican and my grandma is from mexico. i have been when i was a small kid but haven’t in a very long time and it’s so surreal to c how close we really r yet there’s such a stigma about mexicanos and coming to the US.

[@knerduno5942]

Stigma? Only stigma are illegals entering the country in violation of US law. The US hands out border crossing cards to those living on the border. Everyday, thousands upon thousands of Mexicans cross into the US legally.

[@KC-in9px]

Mexicans and Mexican Americans are among some of the hardest working and nicest people I've met. Not every Gringo is suspicious of your people. The suspicious type are afraid of everyone who doesn't look like they do. Please try to ignore them, I do.

[@spaceorbison]

@@KC-in9px I'm come to grow suspicious of THEM.

[@KC-in9px]

@@spaceorbison Looking at the vids on your channel I'm not surprised. You're a goofy fella indeed.

[@spaceorbison]

@@KC-in9px Yeah you better pay attention to those....

[@rhondatanner1157]

The clouds shining on the Rio Grande is just beautiful

[@darranbrown270]

Really enjoy watching your travel videos. 👏

[@futurxmazz6322]

I grew up around here I would ride my bike by the border lines beautiful and calm place a lot of great memories

[@humandelicatessen8885]

that overlook in Roma...wait till the sun goes down and if you're lucky, you'll hear the sound of several large caliber firearms going off across the river!

[@brianmcnary3960]

Always a good time riding with ya .

[@Sterlingix]

Great video. Very interesting. I’m glad I’ve found your channel. Thank you and greetings from Eastern Europe

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Awesome! 👍👍😀

[@marylourodriguez9227]

Yes they are checking you out!!!!

[@TuertosKid]

FYI, in minute 16:45, to the left was the Los Ebanos Ferry Terminal, known in mexico also as "El Chalan". It's a ferry that crosses pedestrians and three cars at a time into Mexico. I believe it;s the only Ferry left in texas that is hand pulled. There are some youtube videos of it as well. Thanks for the report, I will check some of the places whenever I go down there again.

[@lauriesuzanne8848]

Really intriguing footage and narration! Thanks very much. Otherwise? Eye opening! Kinda blown away at the wide openness of the border.

[@JoeandNicsRoadTrip]

Glad you enjoyed it! :)

[@renesagahon4477]

Interesting drive thank you.

[@detaildigital6680]

Interesting video! My family is, and has been, from Los Ebanos for well over 100 years. Needless to say, it has changed a lot. Too bad you missed "La Chalan" the last hand-pulled international ferry in the United States. Still, you'd be about a decade too late to actually see it. You used to be able to walk right up to it. There was only a small U.S. Customs shack that existed back then. There is a much larger customs facility now, however, and you can't actually see the ferry without paying to board the vessel. You navigated the area well. I am a multimedia journalist. I take a lot of photos and videos of this area and deal with border patrol and National Guard regularly. I appreciate and support what they do, but have to balance journalistic integrity and First Amendment rights. Still, with the 100-mile "constitution free" zone, one must tread carefully as to how far they are willing to push.

[@fernandoesquiveljr64]

at 17:03 that was a store my great grand father Luis Pena build in the 1920's he was a Mason/Woodsmen of the World. My mom said he'd have secret meetings in Mission TX. I grew up in the house directly across the cemetery @ 17:10

[@bloomwithjessika4960]

Wow must have been neat to see where you grew up right on KZbin! My grandmas neighborhood had a little neighborhood convenience store called Pena’s, but it was in Weslaco, TX not Mission, TX. He sold candies,pickles, soda and ice creams…all good on a hot summer day lol