Border country: In a few short steps, you’re a whole world away. Plagued by violence among competing drug cartels, many Mexican border towns have become gruesome battlegrounds between opposing forces. Despite horrific tales that surface on a daily basis, folks are doing their best to lead normal lives. Bustling merchants, children at play and colorful surroundings rich with culture still prevail amid the turmoil. Here’s a look at a recent voyage to our down-south neighbors in Nogales, Mexico.

• 

  Day in the Life - Copy

• 

  Day in the life

• 

  Day in the life

• 

  A view across the wall into a Nogales neighborhood.

• 

  The international border fence as seen from the Mexican side. This seemingly unsurmountable barrier is more than 600 miles long.

• 

  A patrol of heavily armed Mexican Polica keep a close watch over downtown Nogales.