In response to the public announcement issued by the US Dept. of State on Jan. 26, 2005 alerting US citizens to the security situation on the Mexican side of the US-Mexico border, the government of Sonora, Mexico has taken several measures to increase security for visitors. Sonora Governor Eduardo Bours is taking the public announcement extremely seriously and has initiated several new programs designed to increase security for all visitors to the state.

• Governor Bours has entered into an agreement with the federal government of Mexico to offer additional state security personnel to assist the federal government with security in the state.
• The State of Sonora now has the equivalent of a "911" emergency phone number. Visitors in need of assistance can dial "066" for emergency assistance and several billboards have been erected in Sonora reminding travelers of this resource.
• The Green Angels, a voluteer group that patrols tourist destinations in Mexico to assist travellers in need, will increase their patrolling activities in major tourism destinations.

Common Signs

• Peligrosa = Danger
• Curva = Curve
• Poblado Proxima = Population Center Ahead
• Llanteros = Tire Repair Shop
• Izquierdo = Left
• Derecho = Right
• Alto = Stop
• Cuotas = Toll
• Caseta = Toll Booth
• Topes = Speed Bumps (big ones!)

The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18.

DO NOT take any type of firearm or ammunition into Mexico!

Beware pulling off the road in Mexico - there are often bad or NO shoulders, and it could result in damage to your vehicle and/or injury to it's passengers! Also avoid driving at night when possible, as roads are sometimes bad, usually not well-lit, and hazards such as construction and livestock are common.

Several years ago, as part of it's economic reform program, the Mexican government dropped three zeros from it's currency. New bills were printed at the time. be advised that there could still be some old bills floating around, and that they are worthless.

A quick way to ruin a nice Mexican vacation is to get sick.

• Always wash your hands whenever possible.
• Drink bottled water, not tap water.
• Keep a supply of fresh water in your vehicle, both for the vehicle and it's occupants.
• Ease into local eating and drinking habits - take it easy at first.
• Pay attention to altitude differences and possibly strong sunlight.
• Wash any vegetables before consumption.
• If travelling to Mexico with small children, it would be best to take your own baby food, diapers, and medications.