What Happened in Mexico? The Death of El Mencho
After many of you reached out to ask if we were safe, we decided to dedicate this episode to explaining what really happened during the recent violence in states like Jalisco, Colima, and Michoacán. We break down the timeline of events—from the military operation in Tapalpa to the 250+ road blockades, airport disruptions, burned businesses (including dozens of Oxxos), and the wave of misinformation spreading on social media. We also share our honest thoughts about safety in Mexico, what this means for travelers and our immersion retreats, and reflect on the bigger political picture—including corruption, organized crime, and whether this moment could represent real change. If you’ve seen the headlines and felt unsure about visiting Mexico, this episode will give you context, clarity, and our personal perspective from living here.
Key Takeaways:
- What actually happened during and after the operation against El Mencho—and how it impacted daily life across Mexico.
- Why most tourists are not the target in these conflicts, and what travelers should realistically consider.
- A deeper look at organized crime, government response, and whether this event signals hope or just another chapter in a complex system.
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
- 297 – La Tienda en Cada Esquina de México | The Store on Every Corner of Mexico
- Keep learning with La Escala
Turn each episode into Spanish practice with La Escala, our online learning community.- Follow along with interactive transcripts, explore breakdown audios in English, and test your understanding with quizzes.
- Stay consistent with weekly challenges and connect with other Spanish learners.
- For live conversation clubs and guided grammar practice, explore our Frequent Flyer and First Class plans.