Is the area surrounding the American Consulate in cd. Juarez safe? How can I be safe?

My mom is fixing my grandparents status so they can come live with us here in the U.S... The thing is that both her mom and dad have to show up at the American Consulate in the city of Juarez to finalize the process. We have never been to Juarez and we live in Arizona. We would have to travel to El Paso then cross the border to Juarez. What's the safest way to do this, any recommendations as in where to stay for 2 nights maybe 3? Obviously we will try to avoid going out if not necessary. Can it be more dangerous if I don't look fully Mexican? I'm half Caucasian... I am really really scared of going but it's a must :(

George L

so, stay in El Paso and go over for the day. it's not too hard to do that.

la vita e bella

I don't know about Juarez being dangerous ( I assume it is from what I read in the papers) but my mom was just in Juarez (with my grandpa) for the same thing and she had no problem at all. She said that the area around the consulate (the 'new' consulate) is very safe and that people are very nice and helpful. She does say to be careful with taxi drivers as they will gauge you! If you go to the El Paso International Airport website you will find shuttle services that will take you to the hotels around the consulate from the airport (we live in California so my mom had to fly into el paso). My mom stayed at the Holiday Inn and she really liked it (remember to book online and it will be cheaper than booking at the hotel). The hotel and the consulate are also next door to the clinics that your parents will have to go to. My mom said she felt safe walking around the area as there is a lot of security in the area because so many people visit. Beware of people trying to scam you though--don't let anyone look at the documents you have unless its at the clinic or the consulate--there are predators who want to trick you into saying you're missing something and will charge you a bunch of money, also don't let a taxi 'wait' for you while you're taking care of business they will charge you a lot of money. You could stay in El Paso but since you have to be at the consulate early in the morning it's not too practical. Remember to tell your parents to make sure to take all the paperwork the consulate asks for or you'll have to reschedule the appointment.

hex

wow la vita e bella, thanks for all that info. its good to know there are people out there willing to help out other in need. you post is sure to help my wife and i on out upcoming trip to the consulate. again, thanks. hex

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