Disclaimer: I am not trying to make a political statement.
In my experience, you are likely to have more difficulty with the US Border
agents than those you encounter leaving Mexico. I lived on my boat (not a
Vega) in Mexico for a couple years before my crossing. I traveled back and
forth across the border many times. I now do the same, but now it is the
border with Canada. Just be sure your papers are current. If you are
documented that will help.
Whenever I cross into the U.S. I am always asked, "did you buy anything?" If
my stay was extended as it was when I shipped my boat back after three years
offshore, I usually reply "I lived on the boat for several years in other
countries, yes I had to buy local goods and I couldn't list everything. We
can do an inventory on the boat if you wish." I make sure I am as polite as
possible. Usually the agent just signs the form and off I go. I have had
friends though, who weren't as courteous or seemed to be hiding something,
and they have had their boat literally torn-apart for some reason or
another.
By the way, if you are driving the other way, into Mexico, be very sure you
declare everything when going by car (well maybe not everything, but a lot
of it, close counts - you will probably pay duty). Another friend of mine
was driving through an Arizona border and arrived at the Mexican border
customs checkpoint. He was carrying many goods for other cruisers (this is
very common to have folks bring parts down from the U.S.). He didn't declare
everything and his truck was impounded for several days, along with all the
goods (including a $650 sewing machine for one cruiser). He got a Mexican
attorney, who finally got him his truck back, but all the other goods were
permanently "impounded" - they were never seen by gringo eye again.
_____
From:
AlbinVega@yahoogroups.com [mailto:
AlbinVega@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf
Of walt/judy brown/allore
Sent: Thursday, May 04, 2006 7:20 AM
To:
AlbinVega@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [AlbinVega] Digest Number 1718
Sorry Dick, My apologies to the group. I promise this will be the last of
it. I'm just worried about the tensions along the border as my upcoming trip
below it approaches. I too would like to see them documented, paying taxes
and into social security. It's those who would prevent them from coming in
period that I refer to as bigots. It's already alot easier for Norte
Americanos to travel in Mexico than it is for Mexicans to travel as visitors
here. If anyone doubts their contribution I would like to reccomend the
movie "The Last Mexican". Once again, my apologies and promise that I will
take it no further. Sincerely, Walt
S/V Lyic #120
