Brianj5600
TJ Expert
Most of South Padre Island has clean sand and clean surf.
And you can actually go in the water with out a wet suit!
Most of South Padre Island has clean sand and clean surf.
This is on my radar for a retirement state.
It's an issue nationwide close to the border. Not an issue as far as safety goes unless you're within an hour or so from the border.How bad is the Illegal Immigration issue and drug cartel issues in Texas?
How bad is the Illegal Immigration issue and drug cartel issues in Texas?
Yea, in my 20ish years in San Antonio, I never really saw any issue from anything related to drug cartels or violence stemming from immigration.It's an issue nationwide close to the border. Not an issue as far as safety goes unless you're within an hour or so from the border.
Depends on where you are. As others have said 50 miles from the border and you can follow the entire border on the north or south side for issues. Inland from there, no more issues than anywhere else.
That said, FM 170 the "river road" is one of the most beautiful drives you can have on a border. There are hundreds of writeups on that road. While I am prepared for just about anything (medical and violence) folks passing me wouldnt likely know it (aside from being fit) and i have never experienced a problem even when remote camping on the border.
Coyotes, Cartels, and IA's are generally in the business of making money and not bothering the little guy at the border (usually). Its bad business to make waves on the US side with folks that arent part of your business.
In reality Ive have more issues with panhandlers in Houston than anyone on the border (and those are still minor)
Im not saying not to prepare (and be equipped), but issues are rare unless you are part of the business or thwarting the business ( my profile when WORKING border operations is very different than when enjoying the region).
If you are in the region, taking Pinto Canyon Road (2180) out of Marfa South to FM170 (the river road) is well worth doing. Stop off at the Terlingua General store ( a little past the submarine at "passing Wind") and have a beer on the porch before exploring Big Bend National Park. All of this is a long way from anywhere, and thats what makes it worth doing