I have to admit I was weary of going there. This was based both on the news reports and fear of meeting the extended family. It was nothing like I expected and people were very gracious and polite, not just the immediate family. I know a little Spanish and it seemed like if I was willing to make an effort, they were willing to meet me halfway. The "worst" person there that I encountered was not a native (though was, unfortunately, family), so that also speaks highly of the country as a whole. :)