Just a preliminary thought here. Next summer we are thinking of doing a four or even five month driving trip (just two of us) from South Florida to the Canadian Rockies, plus annual visits to Tahoe and to Ashland, Oregon, plus an extended stay in Los Angeles. We have a friend with a place in Puerto Vallerta, and we're thinking of driving down there after California, and also maybe two weeks worth including Mexico City, Guadalajara, and maybe a couple other spots. Are we crazy to think of driving there? Obviously we wouldn't plan on using the car in Mexico City. Probably would be in September to early October, by the way, and in an SUV.

I can't answer for the west coast but made a number of trips by Bronco before my heart no longer could do the trip (we now live in Bacalar, 5 hrs south of Cancun)from Brownsville to Merida and Chetumal. It is a challenge that is worth it in wonderful corners and finds and places. Perhaps consider going to Veracruz too. A city of music and fun. Overall though, BE VERY CAREFUL. Driving in Mexico makes Boston and LA look like the park. And make sure you have title directly in your name or a notarized permission to bring the SUV over the border. Ford,Nissan,GM are the easiest to find help for. But the answer is, with great care, Mexico by truck/suv is great fun and adventure.

Actually I drive a Range Rover, and after doing a bunch of searching past threads here, I'm getting the uneasy feeling and idea that my Range Rover with Florida plates might make me a great target for the police scams of false fines. True?

We are just back from one week driving Mexico City, Queretero, Patzcuaro, Morelia and had no problems. Felt safe, signage OK, roads good, even got ourselves to the Mex. City airport. Everyone warned us against driving a rental but we did fine and this is our Do save your toll receipts for insurance reasons if there is an accident.

If you're comfortable driving in those type countries,than go for it! I enjoy the challenge of it all!!