Actually, I did go to Chiapas without Timo. The first time I went with his daughter and grandson. It was over New Year's and I went back to Mexico City alone. I ended up in La Tapo (bus terminal) my cell phone died, and I managed to talk to a porter who helped me find the correct combi back to Chalco. I kept telling him where I wanted to go, (turn right at the Sierra Elefante) and told him, "Don't get me lost!" I managed to get a taxi back to my residence where Timo and his daughter were worried to death where I was!. We all laughed about it and they were amazed and relieved that I actually did it by myself. I told them that I may be a gringa, but I can take care of myself! My Spanish is far from perfect, but humor goes a long way! I did notice that when Timo and I went, for example, to the tiangis, that no one really talked to me or was very friendly. The men would smile and nod. But a couple of times I went alone to shop, and the men were totally different! I guess this is why Mexican men are so possessive of their women. As soon as they turn their backs another man is ready to take over! On the subject of marital abuse - Timo raised his hand to me one time, about 4 years ago, early in our relationship. ( He had been drinking) I told him, "I am an American woman, and we don't take that kind of behavior. So if you ever hit me, you will end up on the floor because I will hit back, and I will be done with you!" It has never happened since. As you say, it could be different once he is "home" - I don't deny that. These are all issues I think about a lot. But I do have a passport, and hopefully I would be able to head back to the US if I felt threatened.