Ok, Chris. You might see increased military activity in the south of Veracruz in the area of the municipality of Jesus Carranza. 20 dead in military led shootouts in the last 72 hours. Mostly night time and brecha areas. Another reason I would never advise anyone to do the "look at me" gringo photo with cops or military anywhere in Mexico.

I would never advise anyone to do the "look at me" gringo photo with cops or military anywhere in Mexico.

Exactamente. It is no laughing matter to act flippant with a Mexican Marine and a .50 cal Browning.

Especially when they, like cops, are targets and actively at war and engaging the cartels. Avoid contact with both unless you are ordered to stop for a checkpoint. And if you are in a town that is shuttered during the day, they are expecting trouble.

Any suggested routes for riding from Palenque to Tikal? On my map, it is hard to see which roads are major and which are backroads. In fact, from El Ciebo (MEX) to El Naranjo (GTA) there is a gap and two "negative/minus" signs, which I interpret as there being no road. Also, I have no idea about safety in that part of Guatemala, but recently read a RR elsewhere about one of those routes between the two sites being a bit sketchy.

Anyway, would be ever grateful for any input from the veterans here.