Most of the cartel crime has to do with the different gangs killing each other for power and control. The teacher strikes last a day or two and as far as we know were only around Oaxaca. The kidnapping we have heard about has to do with people who are known being kidnapped for brief periods for relatively small amounts of money. We have heard of passenger vehicles (Jeeps and pickups) being stolen but no one got hurt. The car thieves go after flashy vehicles but have no clue what to do with an RV. The number of cars stolen in the US is astronomical if you look up crime statistics in the US.
There is no doubt that Mexico (or any foreign country) is a different experience and requires some research and some adapting. But don't listen to the xenophobes who visit this forum to stir up trouble and expose their own fears trying to pass their fears on to others. You do need to be aware of problem areas and take normal precautions. We have never joined a caravan or traveled in any kind of group. But being with an experienced caravan guide can be a good introduction to Mexico. Hopefully you will be with a good group and have a good leader. Keep doing research as you are doing here and learn as much ahead of time about the country and the people - get maps and GPS and study the roads you will be taking so you are familiar to some extent. Keep asking questions here. Don't be one of those who relies totally on the caravan company or the leader being interested in educating you about the experience. Some caravan companies seem to want their clients to remain in the dark so they will be repeat customers and not chance going it alone in the future. Though we have not done it we do know that the caravan experience can be very enjoyable if you are in a good group with a good leader. We love Mexico!!
