What Savvy Tourists Are Doing Now

Suggestions for a happy and safe winter visit to the Valley

Disquieting reports keep coming from south of the border, and are definitely changing vacation plans for Americans and Canadians visiting the Valley. For that reason, savvy visitors are looking ever closer to home for their winter excursions. A lot of folks are getting re-acquainted with some of the fantastic attractions in our own backyard, or just kicking back and enjoying a good ‘ole Texas vacation in the Valley. Nothing wrong with that, partner.

Those were the conclusions related by Albert Garza, Certified Travel Counselor stationed at the Texas Department of Transportation’s Travel Information Center. You’ll find Albert and his helpful staff located in the Center located at the interchange of Highways 83 and 77 just west of Harlingen. “Many of the favorite destinations in Mexico in years past are no longer recommended,” he cautioned.

When visitors ask about going South, he simply hands them copies of the latest Texas Department of Public Safety and U.S. State Department warnings: They have to weigh the benefits and risks. “Just remember, nobody is going to come to your aid if you get into trouble south of the border,” he pointedly lectures.

Some of the Public Safety Bulletins read:

• DPS urges holiday travelers to avoid Mexico–especially the state of Tamaulipas.
• Kidnappings, including non-Mexicans, continue at an alarming rate.
• Rape and sexual assault continue to be serious problems in popular resort areas.
• The U.S. State Department has issued travel warnings for U.S. citizens traveling to Border areas because of the rash of carjackings in recent days. They occur on city streets and Mexican federal highways. Many tourists have been pulled over at gunpoint.

So, armed with that information, Garza tells potential tourists to be extremely careful and travel only in groups. “Some go to nearby Progreso, Mexico,” he said, and then admonished: “Go in the morning, and go in a group. Stay on the main streets downtown for your safety–and get home before dark.”

Granted; Mexico has always been a great attraction for our winter visitors. but not the only one. Garza pointed to the brochure of South Padre Island and said, “Our sandy beaches can be compared to any, anywhere in the world,” he said. “Birding has become an extremely popular hobby for many,” he added. “There are rare birds flying around the Valley that people spend thousands of dollars just to see them in their natïve habitat.” And we have them here in our backyards all year round for free!”

TxDOT’s Travel Information Centers offices receive requests for information from visitors from places like: Germany, Ireland, England, Honduras, Japan, China and France. “We have racks of free information about the attractions in the state and free maps to help them have a happy, delightful and safe vacation in Texas,” he said. “Many of the visitors are looking for information about camping and roughin’it in parks. Others want to know about the World Birding Center locations in the Valley. There are several Bed and Breakfast cottages if you just want to turn off the phone and computer, and hide for a week or so, we have the places to do it,” he said, adding, “the Valley and our beautiful state have it all–and much of it within 100 miles.”

So, there you are: That is what savvy visitors are reviewing and doing according to the knowledgeable folks at the Texas Department of Transportation. If you have specific questions, the Travel Information Center has the answer. They are as near as your telephone–Call them at 428 4475. They are on your side and can guide you to a safe and delightful vacation in South Texas.