ADSP: Algorithms + Data Structures = Programs Episode 275: Cartel Chaos & Travel Troubles
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Feb 27, 2026 Chaotic travel week stories, from rebooking nightmares and airline system quirks to creative routing and corporate travel hacks. Firsthand accounts of leaving Mexico during cartel crackdowns and on-the-ground unrest. Discussion of tourist safety, how cartels profit from tourism, and practical travel insurance and medevac tips. A detour into university life with a lecture at Harvard and a debate on top computer science programs.
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Living Through The 2017 Toronto Van Attack
- Conor recounts living near the 2017 Toronto van attack and how it changed his perception of safety.
- He describes seeing 14 emergency vehicles, helicopter footage of his building, and the city returning to normal within 24 hours.
Caught In Puerto Vallarta During Cartel Crackdown
- Conor Hoekstra was in Puerto Vallarta when Mexican military action against a top cartel leader caused nearby unrest and beach closures.
- He and his partner sheltered in place, saw smoke on the hills, and experienced taped-off beaches and local messaging to stay indoors.
Flight Chaos After Cartel Leader Was Killed
- Conor details how flights shifted and how online/phone systems were overwhelmed, forcing long calls, overnight rebookings, and an in-terminal hotel stay in Montreal.
- He observed vehicles on fire and estimated dozens killed while ultimately getting home via rerouted flights and a hotel rate covered by insurance.