The situation in Mexico, from one who actually lives here full time, is that it is extremely fluid these days.
Michoacan is heating up, again.
Oaxaca is heating up, again.
Chiapas is heating up, again.
What does this mean to someone traveling overland in a VW van?
Absolutely nothing.
What does it mean to the average overland traveler?
Absolutely nothing, as you likely don't understand what is happening and who the players are, anyways.
Unless you plan on taking your VW van off road on brechas and into remote areas, you will be absolutely fine. Practice the same precautions you would in Detroit or Ferguson. See a demonstration? Don't allow yourself to get involved. Go wandering around lost in an urban area late at night? Expect to be noticed.
Keep the van dirty, lock it up, enjoy a country that is in the throes of trying to make itself a better place. Since you're dropping down via the Pacific side, the usual cautions about Tamaulipas and northern Veracruz don't apply.
Some new German friends of mine have been staying at Overland Oasis in Oaxaca, look it up and maybe you'll find a good fit and enjoy a stay there.
