There wasn’t time to grab the camera as a doble remolque (18-wheeled cab pulling two trailers) passed us on a double yellow line as we both crested a hill! Much like in Japan where buses have the right of way and pull out from the curb without warning…a big ass truck in Mexico can do almost anything.
Most articles about driving in Mexico start with, don’t drive at night. Given the conditions of the roads, we heartily agree. Here are additional considerations.
- Signage may be nonexistent and if you’re watching for a turn, SLOW down. There is little warning that your turn is coming up.
- The same goes with road construction (and it is everywhere). The guy waving a flag may give you ten feet of warning to avoid a ten foot drop.
Luckily it is fairly easy to turn around.
- Speed limits are a suggestion which makes for a relaxed trip. In three years we’ve seen one cop with radar.
- It’s always best to drive with a partner if possible. A second pair of eyes notices the man gathering wood along a road with absolutely no shoulder.
It took us awhile to understand that using rocks to slow traffic is common. This sign says not to leave them in the road. Good idea.
- A wide shoulder on a two lane road is used to facilitate passing. Pull to the right to let a vehicle pass you OR to allow a car coming at you to pass oncoming traffic. Flashing headlights may provide some warning. Do however watch for pedestrians, bicycles, motos or goats ambling on the shoulder.
- A vehicle with its left turn signal on is telling you it’s clear to pass. If you want to make a left hand turn, pull to the right shoulder and wait for all lanes to clear. At the same time, if you see a car using turning signals for anything, they’re probably a foreigner.
A peloton with motorcycle support. A rare sight.
- Stick to the toll roads if you can afford them. At the same time, they may be as torn up as the libramiento. It’s a flip of the coin.
We are blessed in Bacalar. The road from Cancun to Chetumal may be the best maintained road in Mexico AND it’s free. Hoping your holidays were tranquilo and your new year is full of love. DOS TORTAS
the adventures of dos tortas 
Hi to you two! I just discovered your blog and am especially enjoying the like mindedness of a positive attitude. Kudos for making the long drive and for adding Lisa’s mom to your household. We had Neil’s dad with us for 12 years in California, then he spent two years in Boston with his daughter. A much better way to care for elders! Neil and I are in Playa del Carmen, our winter stop on our, now three years, experiment of continuous, slow travel as house sitters and adventure seekers.
Carry on! Enjoy! Be well! Laurie
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Welcome to the blog. Your comments are appreciated. Life is good, a lot slower here than in Playa. Hopefully you’ll get to pass through Bacalar. There’s no place like it.
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I appreciate the optimism of Dos Tortas! From driving across Mexico to navigating your new country’s healthcare system, from participating in the local art scene and working through property issues, Dos Tortas remain centered, positive and grateful. Every day truly is a gift, as the cartoon you posted reminds us. Thank you the reminder!
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Smile 💋💋💋 you must come visit and have a glass of 🍷
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Sounds great! I’m having a glass right now, with my foster dog snoring in my ear as the gas fire keeps us toasty. Hope you two are enjoying your evening with your pups!
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