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normamc288

Oct 8, 2010, 2:17 PM

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safe in Catemaco

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Well, I want to write and tell everyone about this wonderful place in Catemaco, Veracruz. It's the Hotel Tepetapan and RV Park. If you go to www.gaudis.com you can see pics.

The only part of Mexico I have not driven thru or lived in are Puebla and Oaxaco. However, this place is the best I have ever been. And the safest.
The casitas are very nice, very comfortable, quite large, fully furnished and the grounds are wonderful. Feels as if you are living in the jungle. I find it very quiet and extremely safe. I have been here now for 3 months and have not one time locked either of my doors. I do lock at night and sometimes I even forget to do that. Mostly the doors are left wide open all day every day. My windows also stay open and the air is great and the bird sounds are awesome.

I did not bring my car down so walk everywhere and never once have a moments worry, even in the evening. Taxis are all over and anywhere you go in town costs only 15 pesos. I have not once been cheated by any store clerks. This is pretty much the cleanest town I have ever been in (in Mexico that is). A few blocks from here is the Malecon with the second largest lake in Mexico.

I highly recommend anyone to come and give it a try. The drive is gorgeous and besides the casitas there are spaces for at least 25 RVs.

Please feel free to ask any questions and I will answer if I can, or call or email the owner for more info. There are washer and dryers on the premises . These people do everything to make us feel welcome. My electric bill last month was only 47 pesos. And propane I paid 280 pesos and it's till going after 2 mo. There is a wonderful woman who will clean if you desire, which I do. The rooms all have ceiling fans. I guess that's all, I just wanted you all to know that there are "safe" places to live here in Mexico.

(This post was edited by Rolly on Oct 8, 2010, 2:52 PM)

raferguson

Oct 10, 2010, 12:20 PM

Post #2 of 29 (3874 views)

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Re: [normamc288] safe in Catemaco

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We enjoyed our stay also, a few years ago.

One comment. There was some theft one night from some of the RVs, despite the night guard, so perhaps not quite as safe as it seems.

Richard

http://www.fergusonsculpture.com

normamc288

Oct 10, 2010, 1:46 PM

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Re: [raferguson] safe in Catemaco

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I guess I am just looking at the bigger picture. I get weary of people knocking Mexico as "unsafe" when I lived in a lovely neighborhood in Austin TX and my home got broken into 3 times.

I liked your comment though, Catemaco really is nice and the townspeople are the nicest and so honest.

Norma

normamc288

Oct 10, 2010, 1:52 PM

Post #4 of 29 (3846 views)

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Re: [raferguson] safe in Catemaco

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I did ask around and no one actually broke into any RVs. Stuff stolen like lawn chair or shoes left by door. However, there is like a ten or twelve foot wall around the compound now and no one comes in here except workers and residents. There are two huge double doors that are left open every day and closed up in the evening. It really is safe here. Where else could you live and leave your doors wide open all day every day. Not just me but the other six persons in these casita also.

Do you RV? Will you be coming back? Norma

Pata Salada

Nov 2, 2010, 8:05 AM

Post #5 of 29 (3408 views)

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Re: [normamc288] safe in Catemaco

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Catemaco is all that Norma describes. With Tepetapan it can also be wonderful place to live, visit or to use as a base for travel and exploring around.

db52

Nov 2, 2010, 11:57 AM

Post #6 of 29 (3355 views)

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Re: [normamc288] safe in Catemaco

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Do you know the rates charged for RVs? I plan to visit the area soon, after the Cervantino.

joaquinx

Nov 2, 2010, 1:12 PM

Post #7 of 29 (3333 views)

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Re: [db52] safe in Catemaco

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In Reply To

Do you know the rates charged for RVs? I plan to visit the area soon, after the Cervantino.

http://www.vrbo.com/55850 will get you the information on the rates.

normamc288

Nov 3, 2010, 2:11 PM

Post #8 of 29 (3214 views)

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Re: [db52] safe in Catemaco

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You can email www.tepetapan.com and talk to Gene personally, these people go out of their way to make you happy. Lots of RV spaces, happy traveling. By the way, there is LOTS to do in the are. Norma

robt65

Nov 6, 2010, 8:02 PM

Post #9 of 29 (3038 views)

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Re: [joaquinx] safe in Catemaco

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I also would like to know the RV rates. I must have missed it both times I looked for information on Recreational Vehicle / travel trailer rates. Seems like a nice place. Too bad the Rates for RV's are NOT POSTED on their information site.

robt65

dongringo_catemaco

Nov 6, 2010, 11:24 PM

Post #10 of 29 (2996 views)

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Re: [robt65] safe in Catemaco

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the tepetapan owner apparently is temporarily moping:
http://www.mexconnect.com/...ng=tepetapan;#147832

Last reported rate: 20 bucks a day.
Visit Catemaco News

richmx2

Nov 6, 2010, 11:28 PM

Post #11 of 29 (2993 views)

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Re: [normamc288] safe in Catemaco

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I always figured the real danger in Catemaco was teeing off the wrong brujo and getting turned into a newt... or a Republican.

http://mexfiles.net
http://voiceofmexico.com
http://editorialmazatlan.com

dongringo_catemaco

Nov 7, 2010, 5:59 AM

Post #12 of 29 (2968 views)

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Re: [richmx2] safe in Catemaco

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Mex Files, actually the chief exorcist of the pertinent archdiocese recently solicited 10 of his fellow exorcists to toss the devil out of the entire town.
http://catemaconews.blogspot.com/...aco-brujo-stuff.html
Visit Catemaco News

normamc288

Nov 7, 2010, 8:56 AM

Post #13 of 29 (2933 views)

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Re: [dongringo_catemaco] safe in Catemaco

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You all are funny. I saw signs re:brujos but never did see one, I think it is like a supposed "draw" for persons to come visit. I am not there now, just moved to La Pesca as I needed to be closer to the border. I think everyone should try Hotel Tepetapan once in there life. Norma

Sunnyvmx

Nov 8, 2010, 3:05 AM

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Re: [normamc288] safe in Catemaco

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Yes we have Brujos and Brujas. A guest here in Tepetapan requested a "reading" and I made the required contacts for her regarding translator and guide to the specific home of most "reputable" witch. He first pitched his personal concoction for repelling the evil curse that had befelled her husband and caused his heart attack, killing him and would eventually kill her too. The translator, not falling for this, related the offer and price with a few "bullsh**s added as she was not inclined to believe any of it, nor was I, but it was not for us to say. After turning down his expensive offer of said potion and deciding to take her chances with the curse, she asked three questions of the cards turned face down on the table and he gave her the answers as the cards had dictated.

Now, I have since heard from her directly and she reports that all three answers have come true. Her kids are doing fine and do not need her help freeing her to live in Mexico. That's one. She isn't able to earn money here from her art. That's two, but her third fortune and the best is she has found a new love, American, and living happily on a Carribean beach. So what can I say. Come to Catemaco, walk the malecon and watch for tall elegant women in jewels and swept up hair in long beautiful sweeping gowns and you are seeing one first hand. Have you ever tried to outrun a witch? When they spot a foreign face they seem to fly towards you without even a broom. Hide your hands so they can't grab one and read your fortune while you struggle to get free. Too late. Pay the price. It's like smiling at a musician who stops at your table and takes that smile to mean you're requesting a song. Pay the price. It's all Mexico and it's all fun and it's all in Catemaco.

http://dementias-daughter.com

dongringo_catemaco

Nov 8, 2010, 4:45 AM

Post #15 of 29 (2840 views)

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Re: [Sunnyvmx] safe in Catemaco

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Those lovely women dressed in beachwear chasing you on the Malecon in Catemaco are not witches or "brujas". They are gypsies, called "hungaros".
http://www.catemaco.info/...temaco/hungaros.html
Visit Catemaco News

normamc288

Nov 10, 2010, 5:26 AM

Post #16 of 29 (2695 views)

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Re: [dongringo_catemaco] safe in Catemaco

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Dear Mr. Gringo, you are totally amazing with all you do and all the info you gather and put out there for us to read and enjoy. I did go ahead and click on that other discussion about Mexico. Sir, that is why sometimes I don't write on Mexconnect unless it is private reply because MOST of the persons on here are really, really nice but some, well, you know. Anyway, I am just a 70 year old granny who likes to see both sides and I can totally see why Gene got upset. I get hugely upset every time our government says don't go to Mexico, I get tired of the negativity and the pounding in our heads about the people killing and shooting. However, Gene has a business to run. Every time someone does not go to his Hotel he loses money. He can't pay the taxes or he cannot (most important) pay his employees who keep the place spotless. Everyone loses. But what makes me the maddest is that there is KILLING AND SHOOTING all over the USA too. I tell my friends who love to tell me how danger it is here to turn on the evening news up there and copy down all the homes broken into, the drive by shootings and the drugs. I really LIKE Rolly. I bought his book and read it and keep it on the coffee table for reference. I like his web sites. I like the way he writes and the extensive knowledge he has. I really just do not like when he goes on and on about the Narcos. Something is not quite right about the Falcon Lake deal. It will all come out in the end but why did they leave that lady alive, she said they rode right past her and smiled but did not shoot. I do not have any answers as you can tell, I think that we need to be little more sympathetic to each of these persons involved in this controversy. Here in La Pesca where I just moved (actually I prefer Catemaco) these people are hurting due to SO MANY PEOPLE talking about the Narcos and the killings in San Fernando and Matamoros. I will be in Matamoros on Sat. and will not see one Narco I am sure. Okay, had my say. Thanks for listening, Norma

joaquinx

Nov 10, 2010, 5:47 AM

Post #17 of 29 (2685 views)

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Re: [normamc288] safe in Catemaco

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In Reply To

I really just do not like when he goes on and on about the Narcos.

Anymore, I don't have to read the newspapers to get the daily lowdown on the narcos, but only turn to this forum.

dongringo_catemaco

Nov 10, 2010, 5:54 AM

Post #18 of 29 (2680 views)

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Re: [normamc288] safe in Catemaco

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Hi Norma. I agree with you. You will probably not see a single narco in Matamoros. You also probably did not see a single brujo while in Catemaco. Nevertheless they are everywhere.

Let's face it. Narcos are like the weather. Both affect all of us and are great conversation topics, especially when they go to extremes. To play ostrich and singlemindedly project only glorifications of an area is like being the mayor in Jaws.

My family depends on selling real estate to 99.9% locals, Mexicans, and probably a few narcos and even worse, some politicians in Catemaco. And guess what they all talk about!

I am sure you and tens of thousands of other tourists will have a safe trip.
And of course, I wish it for you.
Happy Trails
Visit Catemaco News

chinagringo

Nov 10, 2010, 8:07 AM

Post #19 of 29 (2647 views)

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Re: [normamc288] safe in Catemaco

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Normamc & Dongringo:

I find your critiques of Rolly's postings re: narco situation to be self-serving and extremely close minded. From my point of view, a large number of Rolly's posts cover the situation in general and on occasion the situation in the tri-cities of Lerdo, Gomez Palacio & Torreon. His posts on the overall situation are extremely valuable to those of us who live NOB and choose to travel Mexico. Some of us choose to travel a wide geographic area and not simply a route directly from the border to one particular destination. Thus, this type of information is invaluable in determining one's route and just where one chooses to spend time. Granted his posts on the Lerdo area have no bearing on what is happening along your routes of interest from Texas to your area but there are those of us who do travel from New Mexico along Hwy 45 right past his area. Since that is our route, I read Rolly's local posts with interest and also dig for local news media reports on any town or city along said route. I happen to believe that it is not simply yesterday's or today's news that provides me with the basis for my decisions but I also look to historical trends in a given area as part of the information package.

Of all people, I find Rolly's research and postings to be some of the least "provincial". He has given a great deal of time and effort to providing unbiased and valuable information that tends not to be geographic specific. All of this combined makes Rolly a valuable resource! Don't like the "narco postings"? Don't read them or just maybe put forth the effort to start your own forum where you can control what is posted.
Regards,
Neil
Albuquerque, NM

normamc288

Nov 10, 2010, 9:17 AM

Post #20 of 29 (2625 views)

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Re: [chinagringo] safe in Catemaco

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I won't write about this again as we all have our own ideas and thoughts, I have not re-read what I wrote but I thought I said that not only do I love Rolly but I love his websites and I purchased and have read his book and I use it as a reference. And, Rolly has very graciously answered many of my questions over the years. Now granted, I'm just a little old granny and maybe got it wrong. I am sorry you got so upset, I just, please sir, honestly and truly, do not know what good it does to "make persons aware." I have heard the story about Matamoros and San Fernando so many times, it just upsets me. And what good is the knowing? I am going up there, I am living here in La Pesca where my friends won't come because they have heard the stories and yet I am safe here. These Narco persons do not want us, they are battling each other. Well, anyway, guess I will get off here and just shut upand I do apologize to you for causing you distress. Norma

dongringo_catemaco

Nov 10, 2010, 10:30 AM

Post #21 of 29 (2607 views)

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Re: [chinagringo] safe in Catemaco

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China stop picking on little old ladies and read her post again.
Visit Catemaco News

Sunnyvmx

Nov 11, 2010, 4:05 AM

Post #22 of 29 (2523 views)

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Re: [normamc288] safe in Catemaco

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No need to be concerned about Tepetapan. The villas are rented with new arrivals this month. The whole place is receiving a new coat of paint and the pool pump has been refurbished. We're expecting RVs as usual for our annual Thanksgiving dinner. Today I begin to prepare my patio garden for Spring. Catemaco streets, stalls and sidewalks will have many vendors with new plants from nurseries that surround the lake and hills in the area. This year I must exercise some control over my garden as I hope to travel more extensively throughout Mexico and the care and upkeep gets demanding.

I also will be watching the situation as it concerns me with future travel plans. Even though everything is quiet here, I am not one to keep my head buried, but will plan accordingly to avoid certain areas and enjoy many others. I appreciate all who take the time to keep informed and pass that information to all of us who use these forums to make necessary decisions in our lives that we have chosen in Mexico. Ignorance may be bliss, but I prefer to live and travel smarter.

http://dementias-daughter.com

dongringo_catemaco

Nov 15, 2010, 3:22 PM

Post #23 of 29 (2290 views)

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Re: [normamc288] safe in Catemaco

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An abridged history of the Tamaulipas - Catemaco narco corridor
http://catemaconews.blogspot.com/...1/catemaco-zeta.html

Corrections are welcome.
Visit Catemaco News

Hound Dog

Nov 16, 2010, 9:08 AM

Post #24 of 29 (2170 views)

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Re: [normamc288] safe in Catemaco

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The only part of Mexico I have not driven thru or lived in are Puebla and Oaxaco. However, this place is the best I have ever been. And the safest.

Normanc288:

You don´t really mean that you have driven through or lived in every part of Mexico except Puebla and Oaxaca states do you? That is a vast territory. By the way, if you have not driven or lived in either of those two states you have missed a great deal of the finest scenery and food and indigenous cultures Mexico has to offer.

I like Catemaco at least for abbreviated visits and often drive close to or through there on my way between Ajijic on Lake Chapala and San Cristóbal de Las Casas. In fact, while we usually overnight in Orizaba or Fortin de Las Flores, Veracruz, we are considering staying at this lodge/RV park you recommend in Catemaco on our next drive to Chiapas. However, Catemaco is no more enticing for its safety than many other towns in Mexico. For instance, I always feel perfectly safe in Puebla and Oaxaca cities and felt so secure in San Cristóbal de Las Casas we bought a house there four years ago. The fact is we feel safer in San Cristóbal than we do at Lake Chapala although both places are tranquil and very civilized.

Catemaco is certainly a nice town on an attractive lake but Lake Catemaco, as Lake Chapala, is a bit murky and the town of Catemaco is a bit ratty. Now, if those of you considering moving to Mexico wish to live on the shores of a crystal clear lake, I suggest Lake Bacalar which is fed by cenotes and one of the few truly crystal clear lakes in the Mexican tropics. Other truly beautiful lakes in Southern Mexico include the multi-colored and crystal clear lakes at Lagunas de Montebello National Park or Laguna Miramar in the remote Biospheric Reserve of Montes Azules in Chiapas. Surely, if you have, in fact, either driven through or lived every place in Mexico except Puebla and Oaxaca states, you have visited these Mexican natural treasures. You can´t actually live in these latter treasures as you can at Bacalar but what fine places to visit and you are safe in those polaces as long as you respect local customs. I wouldn´t be messing with rural people in those areas, however, unless I was looking for a reprise of DELIVERENCE.

(This post was edited by Hound Dog on Nov 16, 2010, 9:10 AM)

Hound Dog

Nov 17, 2010, 9:49 AM

Post #25 of 29 (2045 views)

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Re: [normamc288] safe in Catemaco

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II did ask around and no one actually broke into any RVs. Stuff stolen like lawn chair or shoes left by door. However, there is like a ten or twelve foot wall around the compound now and no one comes in here except workers and residents. There are two huge double doors that are left open every day and closed up in the evening. It really is safe here. Where else could you live and leave your doors wide open all day every day. Not just me but the other six persons in these casita also.

Do you RV? Will you be coming back? Norma

Norma:

What am I missing here? It is OK to leave your motor home unlocked because they have all night security guards and a 12 foot wall with closed double doors around the compound? Yet, still someone stole some lawn chairs and - this defies belief - a pair of used brogans from in front of an RV´s front door? Hell, you would be safe even in New Orleans or Dawg´s old city of Oakland if you lived in a bubble like that. That must inferentially tell us something about Catemaco in general if the owners of an RV park have to build a fort around the damn thing and hire 24 hour security. Live in Catemaco´s Fort Apache RV Park but never go out in the woods at night and never go out alone.

Dawg has alarmed both his high walled Ajijic and San Cristóbal homes, installed concertina wire on my 12 foot walls in Ajijic and I pay monthly for continuous security plus in San Cristóbal the neighbors will, in all likelihood, beat the crap out of anyone caught breaking and entering as they have no tolerance for that sort of thing down there. I never felt that safe in my home in Northern California so you could I feel really safe here in Mexico in comparison if you build a fort around yourself and hire mercenaries to protect you at all hours.

(This post was edited by Hound Dog on Nov 17, 2010, 10:31 AM)

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