The Real Story Behind Mazatlan’s Scary Headlines

Рет қаралды 37,673

Күн бұрын

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@BridgetWeedon 9 ай бұрын

I’m so tired of people saying how dangerous Mexico is. I live in Memphis, TN. One of the supposed most dangerous cities in the states. Mexico to me is safe and beautiful with amazing people, food and architecture. I’ve been to Mazatlan, walked the streets and Malecon alone at night. One of the most beautiful places I’ve been to. And I’ll go back. 😊✌🏼

@alysmalls 9 ай бұрын

So beautiful ❤️

@lawolwrt2306 9 ай бұрын

Who cares, she is giving her point of view. Get over yourself!!

@azborderlands 9 ай бұрын

I’m from a border state, it’s full of crime. I know many people who are from Mexico and agree it can be dangerous with cartels. It use to be safe back in the 80’s.

@Mexicantours 9 ай бұрын

Everything is dangerous and eventually you die… so best to stay under the bed, and life will be good.

@fredsands9220 9 ай бұрын

It's quite possible to "feel" safe when you actually aren't.

@grantallen9841 4 ай бұрын

A fair and balanced report. As a retired U.S. expat, I have lived in Mazatlán for six years. I always tell people if your decisions are based only on the headlines, you would never go anywhere, notably the US with its crazy high number of RANDOM mass shootings. That just doesn’t happen in Mexico or Sinaloa or Mazatlán for that matter.

@safeandeffectivelol 2 ай бұрын

The crazy number of mass shootings are just headlines. Most of them are drug gangs shooting at each other. I believe the media considers it a mass shooting if 4 or more people are injured or killed by gunfire at one place. That's basically once a week in many large US cities.

@sherylgamble8972 2 ай бұрын

Wow I am so so impressed by your video and attitude towards my adopted city. I have lived here full time for over 39 years, I don’t think I could have said it better!!! Please come back and I will show you MY Mazatlan. Thank you so much! VIVA MAZATLAN!!

@gentlemenjack2874 9 ай бұрын

I'm Mexican and I have been only one time in Mazatlán, after seeing this video I'll plan my next trip to Mazatlán 😊

@georgemoore7196 9 ай бұрын

I just returned from two weeks in Mazatlan in February of 2024. I was there to visit a dentist while my wife was in Vietnam for a month to visit her family. I caught on to your great videos while I was there and have been watching them all. My wife and I will both be going to Mazatlan in early April of 2024 to witness the total eclipse of the sun. Frankly, I like all the negative reports about Sinaloa Province because it keeps the tourists away from Mazatlan! Because of all the danger reports about Sinaloa Province, prices in Mazatlan are nothing like in Puerto Vallarta and above all not like the stratospheric prices in Cabo San Lucas. Mazatlan is our our new default place in Mexico. But first, Aly Smalls, your videos about Bucerias have made me crazy. I think we will check out Bucerias next January before returning to Mazatlan again. Thanks so much for the great videos on KZbin!

@alysmalls 9 ай бұрын

I LOVE that you're going back for the eclipse! That is going to be incredible!!

@georgemoore7196 9 ай бұрын

@@alysmallsIt was the news about the eclipse last year that got me looking at Mazatlan. I think I booked our AirBnb for the event last June. :-) I have one more comment for you about Mazatlan with your future videos in mind. For me in Mexico, I most like the old historical neighborhoods. In Mazatlan, that neighborhood is El Centro Historico, which borders on Olas Altas Beach. The place is indeed historic and beautiful. However... Last month, I stayed in an AirBnb on one of the hilltops overlooking Olas Altas Beach. The views were fantastic, and it was only a ten something minute walk to the beach, but the noise from the nightclubs on the beach at night was a bit too much, on Friday and Saturday nights in particular. Because of the noise from the nightclubs at night, I could not recommend a stay anywhere near Olas Altas Beach for families with kids. Stay on that beach only if you want to party until you drop. Thanks again for the great videos!

@talon310calif 9 ай бұрын

Good for people who go to mazatlan for vacation. Tourists need to spread out so we don't over crowd the same locations. Have fun in mazatlan.

@leopoldorendon5547 2 ай бұрын

Thank you. I was born in Mazatlán. But now I Live in San Diego. 💕 blessings

@nvflash 2 ай бұрын

This is 6 months old. The war between the cartels has been going on for over a month mainly in the Culiacán area. The roads to Mazatlan have been blocked by the cartel with semi trucks and trailers and then set on fire. A police officer was killed in Mazatlan a couple weeks ago and a couple people on the malecón just last week. It is not as bad as Culiacán but don't kid yourself that it is safe. No telling how long it will last. My family and wife are in Culiacán and we planned on going over to Mazatlan for a few days but not now.

@kasiy2712 Ай бұрын

Is it safe then to go to mazatlan directly? as mexican americans

@user-rw7in2kq9y 4 ай бұрын

Thanks for the video. Went on a cruise and spent 4-5 hours on the beach with my wife and daughter, I ate some of the best seafood ever (pescado sarandiado, smoked fish cooked over flames and ate the most fresh oysters.

@cindyklasson371 9 ай бұрын

I’ve only been to Mazatlan once and felt very safe.

@tibbyjohnston3318 6 ай бұрын

With Sunwing the only direct flight from Toronto to Mazatlan does anyone know if prices for Sunwing go on sale in Feb ?

@laurahorton3326 9 ай бұрын

Mazatlan is absolutely beautiful. Its cleaned up and its past its struggles. Go and enjoy yourself!!!

@anacallow509 7 ай бұрын

I love Mazatlan.Spend 24 years ,every winter in this beautiful ,safe place. Talking of crime,where is 100% safe? Just go to Mazatlan and enjoy every moment. Thank you for this great video! ♥️🇭🇷🇨🇦

@intallpines 9 ай бұрын

Aly, I would add this to my list based on your review. Loved the walkway. Very well-spoken video! Thanks, mucho! xo

@mexicoliferodcook9479 9 ай бұрын

Mazatlán is still a paradise so is Acapulco. If you go looking for trouble you can find it anywhere these days. Besides most of the bad people have migrated to the states. Another good one Aly.

@alysmalls 9 ай бұрын

Agreed!

@bjones9942 5 ай бұрын

I live in Mazatlán and love to vacation in Acapulco! I just wish the bus ride wasn't 24 hours each way! :o

@mexicoliferodcook9479 5 ай бұрын

@@bjones9942 I live in Tepotzotlan Mx and it is a 7 hour ride from here. going there in 2 days then to Zihua and Ixtapa.

@bjones9942 5 ай бұрын

@@mexicoliferodcook9479 I enjoy Zihuatanejo. Not fond of mega resorts or all-inclusive, so I haven't done Ixtapa. Enjoy your trip!

@safeandeffectivelol 2 ай бұрын

The bad people are up near the border where billions are to be made

@noh6865 9 ай бұрын

Mazatlan is one of the safest beaches in Mexico. You can wear expensive clothes and jewelry without any problems. The reason it’s so safe is because there’s one group that is in total control and there isn’t a turf war going on. If someone is committing petty theft they get handled by that group mentioned earlier

@safeandeffectivelol 2 ай бұрын

Kind of like how when the mob ran certain neighborhoods in the US. Those were the safest.

@mikewallden5167 9 ай бұрын

Good video Aly, thanks for sharing. I've booked a trip for my family and I over Christmas and New Years. Looking forward to our visit, 😂I was last there 35 years ago and enjoyed it then.

@suzanneambriz5897 9 ай бұрын

Our family will also be there during those times. We last went in July and look forward to visiting during cooler weather.

@francoisbouchard9488 9 ай бұрын

Thanks Aly for another great video. Lately I've been limiting my travels to places with direct flights from the San Francisco Bay Area. Mazatlan is one of those options I've yet to explore. Kinda been addicted to Puerto Vallarta this last year, having visited there 5 times already since last June, though my next trip is to Zihuatanejo at the end of the month. Keep up the great work!

@BeccaHabegger1 8 ай бұрын

Thanks, super helpful! We’re going for a couple of weeks to see the total eclipse and this gave me some great ideas for places to visit/things to do!

@luckyb4541 4 ай бұрын

Im a canadian living in Mazatlan for that last 28 yrs. I've tried lots of other spots in the interim adn always come back to Maz. Gonna die here. Never heard a gunshot , never seen a speed trap, never seen a parking meter, crime rates here are lower than most US cities. Obviously theres criminals everywhere in the world. Be aware of your surroundings

@safeandeffectivelol 2 ай бұрын

Most large US cities are third world at this point.

@samartik74 6 ай бұрын

I live Mazatlan with my family over two year and not even one time feel any threat here. People are really nice and they respect you space. Also I was forget my phone one time on the park and one time on the taxi ❤ both time theres comes people to bring it me. I respect that place and of course every place on the earth its good to be careful. Im from Finland🇫🇮 and my experience Mazatlan Mexico🇲🇽 is positive 👋🏻🌵

@daniellemorrison1427 9 ай бұрын

i love these types of videos :) more info videos would be so cool!

@lenoremarie7632 9 ай бұрын

I love Mazatlan so much! I felt very safe ❤

@1984jmk 6 ай бұрын

If people started retiring in Mexico instead of Florida a lot of powerful institutions in the US would lose money. There are vested interests to make sure you only hear about scary Mexico.

@Rocketman0407 2 ай бұрын

Yes its defintly the Media. Some it fake News as well

@watdahek2 9 ай бұрын

Fantastic advice in regards to crime. I have traveled Mexico since the 70s. I had really long hair down below my waist until I was 55. Every block I walked I would be asked if I wanted to buy "you know what". I always said no, politely. I guarantee that if you play, you might some day pay. Don't partake in drugs and don't over drink in public and tourists are fine.

@AlergicToSnow 3 ай бұрын

I’ve been to Mazatlán 4 times in 20 years. Never an issue. Lots of fun.

@gentlemenjack2874 9 ай бұрын

Great Video!! ❤

@terrytayler6120 2 ай бұрын

There are thousands and thousands of Mazatlán residents living a peaceful wholesome life. I have been coming here for 30+ years. I have lived here as a permanent resident for 5 years. There is no more crime and violence than any other city of its size. Don't buy into the fear porn. Yes there is crime, but if you have low vibes that's what you will attract. Your energy attracts the same energy. Fear attracts those who create fear. There are those who gain by creating fear. Big government wants to keep your tourist dollars home, that's why the travel advisories. Control, control, 15 minute cities next???

@scottsquires4785 9 ай бұрын

Excellent video, you are always an excellent source of information when it comes to Mexico. I've never been to Mazatlan but want to now. We've been to Mexico a bunch of times and people here in Canada always ask why we go when it is so dangerous. Pure ignorance, especially when we are from Toronto, city of 3 million. We have crime here as well...

@krismeaney2841 2 ай бұрын

You lost me at "There really is no need to go anywhere else" (from the coastline) .... Except that your missing out on SO MANY REAL places. Take a bus to Cuchupetas in Villa Union and experience the real Mexico with a restaurant that has been visited by Mexican Presidents and a whole boatload of famous people - and the food is wonderful. So many places to see beyond the Malecon.

@runemrick 4 ай бұрын

I was in Centro all winter. Zero issues. The people are very nice.

@Thereminator101 9 ай бұрын

It's very conditional...several years ago there was much more Cartel infighting and the murder rate was very high. The turrist/commercial areas that are patrolled by the military are generally safe. The last two times I visited the Baja side(around 2006) an American woman was kidnapped and murdered( below San Felipe) and several locals(about 25)in Rosa Rita were taken from a restaurant, lined up at a wall and shot. That was Cartel infighting. So...there's a general infighting climate that's improved over the last few years, and there's an more sparse randomness that can't be predicted. Like the weather...be precautious.

@easterntechartists 4 ай бұрын

What kind of country needs the military to patrol the streets?

@safeandeffectivelol 2 ай бұрын

Most "Americans" kidnapped in Mexico are dual nationals returning home to visit family or on "business". They're not your white bread tourists.

@abarba 8 ай бұрын

I would advise to keep an eye on the safety alerts from your country's embassies. I've heard foreigners say that Mexico is definitely safe. That's great for those who've had a wonderful experience each time. 👍🏼 However, a few of them unfortunately change their minds later on. Nothing happens until shit happens.

@kathiewalli8746 2 ай бұрын

I have been to Mazatlan four times and am spending six minths there this winter My apt is in centro I have always felt very safe in Mazatlan even walking late at night

@citytourspulmoniafreddybto963 8 ай бұрын

Ty for this video amiga .

@alysmalls 8 ай бұрын

We had a great time with you!

@citytourspulmoniafreddybto963 8 ай бұрын

@@alysmalls gracias ✌️

@joshdion9085 8 ай бұрын

i go to mazatlan 4 times a year and been doing so for 25 years and ive NEVER experienced any kind of danger what so ever unless i was in the ocean and i was intoxicated

@easterntechartists 4 ай бұрын

So you were in the ocean Intoxicated and had problems?

@GudasWorld 9 ай бұрын

I was just there for 2+ months. Its safe. Its safe because that where everyone vacations, cops, civilians & cartels. Gang members like vacation also.

@CharlesBurton-zs6bh 2 ай бұрын

I live in Mazatlan. I have been coming here for fifty years. None of this violence at the start of the video is a happening thing. Violent crime is so unusual that one incident makes headlines.

@hinthegroove9740 3 ай бұрын

Fantastic video

@DougMcCloy 20 күн бұрын

Mazatlan is a safe city. I have spent 20 winters here. For a city of approximately 800,000 people there really are not any place not to go. Night time is different as it is in any city. The crime rate in Mexico is 1/3 of the US per capita. 90% of the crime is in the five largest cities as it is in the US. That doesn’t leave much for the rest of the country. Believe it or not, the Cartels are invested in the tourist industry and they don’t want anyone messing with the tourists. We are well protected here. The shooting that happen here are targeted and only take out the bad guy(s). Usually they will beat a person that doesn’t pay their(drug) bill. If they still don’t pay the harm increases until there is a final fatal blow. If you stay away from that side of things, you are unbelievably safe. Most of the time we hear about what is happening in Mazatlan from back home. Rarely hear about it let a lone see it. The only time Mazatlan is considered to be some what dangerous is during Carnival. They say that close to a million people come for the fun. Sad to say, some pickpockets also come, like anywhere else. Take the normal precautions for being in big crowds and you will be fine. Come and enjoy an amazing culture, you will be happy you did.

@kennyrichey3238 9 ай бұрын

Very informative Aly. Thanks so much!

@alysmalls 9 ай бұрын

Thanks for watching Kenny!

@liveourbest2067 9 ай бұрын

I was in La Paz a few months ago and loved it...Curious how Mazatlan compares.And is it less expensive than La Paz?

@454LuisDeLaTorre 2 ай бұрын

I would say it's about as expensive if not maybe a little more but it's way bigger and there's a little more to do specially if you travel during carnival, motorcycle week, baseball season or Fútbol season ⚽

@misstubbie1313 Ай бұрын

Watching this from the beach of Mazatlán 😎

@gissellearambula6277 9 ай бұрын

Hello, Aly: Great video. Thank you for encouraging people to visit Mazatlán. I go to Mazatlán every year, and I feel totally safe. I can guarantee that it’s more dangerous here in Chicago with armed robberies and daily shootings/murders. Like you’ve said before… as long as you stay out of trouble, you should be fine.

@garyharrison432 4 ай бұрын

I've lived in Mazatlan for 5 years and I've not seen any crime

@erniegislason5171 9 ай бұрын

How safe is the USA city that you live in?

@alysmalls 9 ай бұрын

I don't live in the USA!

@kellyname5733 9 ай бұрын

PV has been ruined, just like Cancun. Too many crazy people in those locations. But Mazatlan?? Still a good place. Thanks for the vid.

@Stevenfrijol 4 ай бұрын

great video

@iamnoone940 8 ай бұрын

We’ve made the trip to Mazatlan from Texas over a dozen times. Bought a vacation home that we are planning to retire to as well. Never once had a problem but that is just my experience.

@mhqdsk812 2 ай бұрын

Thank you for sharing such a positive perspective on Mazatlán! As a citizen, it’s important for me to highlight that external perceptions often don’t reflect the current reality of a place. As you mentioned, Mazatlán has evolved and is now one of the safest beaches in Mexico, offering an incredible experience to its visitors. The warmth of its people, its rich culture, and its beautiful beaches make Mazatlán a welcoming and unique destination. The key, as with any place, is to enjoy responsibly, respect the tourist areas, and follow local recommendations to ensure a pleasant stay. It’s valuable that citizens like you promote such a positive image, as it helps attract more tourism and change outdated perceptions. I hope more people are encouraged to discover how amazing Mazatlán truly is!

@petergruening2893 9 ай бұрын

Traveling solo I was disappointed that the food tour wouldn't let me just book one

@robertsmith20022 3 ай бұрын

Ive been to mazatlan, panindicuaro, tulum, michoacan and MANY other places and i never felt afraid. Now, its not a joke over there and shit can get real but, if you know you know ❤️

@Rocketman0407 2 ай бұрын

I am starting to believe most of the innocent killings of tourists have happen to people not innocent all that innocent. Like some cocktail American fucks with the wrong people type situation

@rosellafoullon397 2 ай бұрын

As of today 10/03/24 things have changed due to the new goverment coming in & the capture of the main Cartel boss, you don’t read about it in the gringo papers. The restaurants are all empty in the GZ which is terrible for business. The cartels are fighting for control of the plaza, i live here full time & feel safe but we have been warned to not go out @ night. If like the video states you mind your business it’s ok. & you do not leave the city to like day trips to the small town as the roads are blocked due to cartel presence Hopefully this will pass & the economy can recover

@Rocketman0407 2 ай бұрын

The HW south to Nayarit is blocked?

@julianportugal4341 2 ай бұрын

Gracias por compartir Mazatlan somos mas gente buena saludos

@scottshiner4621 9 ай бұрын

I grabbed an Uber from the Golden zone to the airport and soon as I got in the car he said he can't do it for that price so told me to cancel the ride on the fair and give him cash and the only time I've ever had problems with Uber anywhere in the world

@KylenMclnnis-x8g 4 ай бұрын

I believe it’s because Ubers aren’t technically supposed to go to the airport , and a lot of the ride services prefer cash so they don’t have to report taxes

@scottshiner4621 9 ай бұрын

Mazatlan is safe and awesome. I've been here 6 times

@Stevenfrijol 7 ай бұрын

Good Video.....

@LibertyLeslie 8 ай бұрын

I stayed their six months during the time the Rat was arrested. Two days of lockdown where nobody would open businesses. I just enjoyed the beach for two days and watched the helicopters. I travel alone and I do not stop at tolls or road blocks unless they are obviously police check points or someone is behind the window at the tolls.

@elliotthall5543 7 ай бұрын

Actually, feeling safer by lesser police presence may make you feel better, but is actually functionally less safe. In reality, it is likely is misappropriation of resources in that those two towns are pretty much equally safe, but PV has more tourists, by a lot, which means a greater international profile, so MX is overloading security resources there, for no legit security reason. MX would do well to equalize the resources between the two, so both feel equally safe, as that would likely be more effectively true. The appearance of safety, mistakenly, makes MX think they are attracting visitors. In reality, the overbearance of armed security is often alarming to N Americans and Europeans, for equally nonsensical reasons. Either way, MX allocates most of their security resources to tourist and large cities. Don't look for trouble and it won't look for you. If trouble is your gig, Chicago O'hair is an easy flight, or ATl, or LAX, or JAX, or MIA, STL, or name your large U.S City...

@jeffkingsley273 Ай бұрын

you are always safe if you don't try buying drugs the same in an city in the world so be smart and I agree with Aly

@easterntechartists 4 ай бұрын

What kind of country has spots of safety punctured by no go zones?

@454LuisDeLaTorre 2 ай бұрын

Mmm 🤔 any county with organized crime groups? Except maybe Japan

@Portwoody 2 ай бұрын

I live here as a foreigner. It’s not as dangerous as it may be represented. But it’s not without its flaws like any other big city. The cops are more of a daily concern than are the narcos.

@Rocketman0407 2 ай бұрын

Its plenty safe, but a little uncertain at this moment

@Mark.Claughton 23 күн бұрын

Im from the UK. You got more chance of getting stabbed in a city than finding a taco in Mexico. Im currently in Puerto Vallarta and feel safer here than back home

@gif24gt60 9 ай бұрын

Mind ur own business in other countries, most of the time u'll be fine. Mind ur own business in the US, most of the time, u won't.😮

@Wewazkangs Ай бұрын

Lots of cartel money has been invested in the city. They keep the tourists safe. I’ve been there several times and never had any issues whatsoever.

@abelsanchez1891 4 ай бұрын

I think the violence is every where in the World. But mazatlan is one of the most visited places . Specialy for american People. You can see a lot of People enjoin the City.

@roundpaws 9 ай бұрын

I’m currently in Mazatlan and ❤ it. Feel totally safe as a female walking around alone at night. Curious how you feel about this city compared to other costal cities you have visited in Mexico in terms of living. Do you have another that compares on lifestyle and cost of living that you liked better? I ❤ San Pancho but not sure it has enough for living full time without a car.

@Capibaracapibara1992 Ай бұрын

first images are in Culiacan... not Mazatlan!

@rosellafoullon397 2 ай бұрын

There sre far more shootings in the U.S.

@TribalCorgiGBI 3 ай бұрын

Cap lmao, mazatlan is waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay more peaceful than any other city in sinaloa, i'd know i've been living here in mazatlan for years

@CaliStilo1988 Ай бұрын

Taking a first trip out there next year in june with my people's who have peoples who live there also.. all of a sudden there's all this news about how wild it is right now lol

@TexasAlienBreeders Ай бұрын

Even if I died here from some crazy incident, I would love to die here.

@jessediaz1293 8 ай бұрын

You should of came back for the 2024 eclipse in Mazatlan.

@cherylscottino302 6 ай бұрын

Scammers everywhere. Very dangerous cartels.

@bjones9942 5 ай бұрын

Good video! Just an fyi - the 'yellow bars' aren't dive bars, they're more like taverns/cantinas. If you drink beer and would normally visit a tavern up north, then you'd feel right at home in one here. They're very local and most tourists don't visit them - so be prepared to speak Spanish or have google translate open on your phone!