We usually see humans in two categories – the good and the bad. The good do the right things, according to society. They’re kind, loving, generous and won’t deliberately hurt you. To be bad is to… well, do bad things.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned through the years, it is that life is made up of many shades of grey, and humans are so intricate and multifaceted that I have since learned to throw the box away – it is futile to fit humans into it. I am reminded of this multifacetedness in “BEEF”. A honk and a road rage spiralled into an endless cycle of revenge, and two lives are forever altered.
“BEEF” follows the lives of two Asians – Danny and Amy. Danny is seated in his car one afternoon, seething over his futile effort to return goods he had earlier purchased. He is about to leave when Amy honks at him in her shiny white car, and then gives him the F sign – unprovoked. Angered by her action, Danny chases her down the road in rage as she drives off. Danny later looks her up through an app and, pretending to be a contractor, pays a visit to her home, pees all over her toilet and runs away.
I found that scene funny – do me I do you, man no go vex, abi? – and I giggled as I watched. Amy wasn’t having it. She sought to retaliate and both of them went down the rabbit hole of hurting each other. What was meant to be mere beef became a bitter, imbecilic feud, intensifying with every action.
The I-must-stop-these-bouts-of-revenge moment, for Danny, was when he tried to set Amy’s car on fire but found her daughter in it. He went home muttering sadly, ‘I almost set a child on fire.’ He was ready to let go and forget he ever met Amy and would have achieved this if Amy did not make it her life mission to haunt him.
One of the questions the viewers may ask themselves is – why is Amy hell-bent on revenge? Especially when she was at fault in the first place. Why can’t she leave Danny the hell alone? What’s it to her?
The answer to these questions is simple: Amy’s life has become so monotonous, gloomy and unhappy that the thought of retaliation gave her a rush of adrenaline. It took her mind off the usual – work and family – and made her happy in a twisted way. Her beef with him made all the difference between her and the life of despair. It was fun until it was no longer.
“BEEF” is an exploration of what makes and breaks us, and how it affects how we show up in the world. Our lives are intertwined in many ways, what happens within us influences our relationship with others and, many times, our wounds rub against each other until the scabs are off and we are left raw.
We are such inward secret creatures
As I watch the series, I see how there’s always more to the actions we take or the choices and decisions we make. On the surface, Amy is that revengeful, evil woman who oppresses Danny simply because she can. But when the layers are peeled, we see a woman whose heart is weighed down by the burdens of life’s endless curveballs. She’s tired, angry, pained and hurt. And hurt people always want to hurt more people.
Danny, on the other hand, is a frustrated man whose efforts are always futile. His business is retrogressing, his parents are stuck in another country, and every time it feels like there’d be a breakthrough, something happens and he finds himself right at the bottom again. It looked like he’ll never win in life. He needs a channel to let out his frustrations so it is no surprise that his reaction to Amy’s actions is usually yea, bring it on.
I find it difficult to determine if Danny and Amy are good or bad people, but that’s another lesson – humans are never really good or bad. We’re simply… humans.
We’re born, we make choices and, suddenly, we’re here.
One big lesson we can draw from “BEEF” is knowing when to draw the line. Knowing when you’re becoming obsessed with revenge (or insert any vices) and when you need to remind yourself of who you are and your values. Perhaps, if Amy and Danny had done a little bit more introspection, they’d have realised there’s no need to burn someone else’s car, ruin a person’s business by dropping bad, untrue reviews, kidnap a child, or rob a house.
I am reminded, once again, of the importance to guard one’s heart, after all, they say it is where evil resides the most. We find anger, pain and distress lurking in there more often than we want to admit, and sometimes, when we are set on the dark path, we go downhill until we get to a point of no return.
It is also taking a moment to place other people’s needs above self. Perhaps if Amy had known that on the day she honked at Danny, he had tried to return the Hibachi grills he bought to kill himself, she’d have been much kinder. Maybe if Danny hadn’t thrown his brother’s application letters away, his life would have been different. I don’t know. But what I know is that if they had taken time to listen to each other (which didn’t happen until both lives had been ruined), this beef would have ended the way it should – as a lighthearted disagreement that could be laughed off over one or two glasses of wine. Alas! Here we are.
<img src="https://www.mtlblog.com/media-library/machu-picchu-peru-right-nassau-bahamas-illustrative.jpg?id=54522858&width=1245&height=700&coordinates=2%2C0%2C3%2C0"/><br/><br/><p>With winter creeping in and dreams of sandy beaches or tropical escapes filling our minds, now's the perfect time to double-check the latest <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/tag/canada-travel-advisory" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Canada travel advisories</a> that could impact your upcoming travel plans. </p><p>The Government of <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/little-known-passport-rule-could-affect-winter-travel-plans" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Canada has issued important travel warnings</a> for some of the most popular sunny destinations this month, and staying informed could save you a lot of hassle — or even a trip to your travel insurance fine print.</p><p>Whether you're taking a quick trip to <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/canada-travel-advisory-mexico-october-2024" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mexico</a> or <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/canada-travel-advisory-cuba-earthquakes-power-outages-november-2024" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cuba</a>, or flying across the ocean to Spain or Thailand, these advisories cover everything from safety concerns to weather impacts. From supply shortages to surges in violent crime, keeping an eye on potential risks at your chosen spot is just smart planning.</p><p>So, before you lock in those flights, here's a look at the travel warnings issued in November 2024 that Canadians need to know about some of the hottest winter escapes this season.</p><h3>Jamaica</h3><br/><p>Last Updated: November 15, 2024</p><p>Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution in Jamaica due to the high level of violent crime.</p><p>Details: Jamaica's stunning beaches and vibrant culture come with some risks, as violent crime remains a significant concern even in popular tourist areas like Kingston and Montego Bay. Armed robberies and other violent incidents, often tied to gangs and the availability of firearms, can occur anywhere, including areas frequented by tourists. Some neighbourhoods, including Trench Town and Tivoli Gardens in Kingston, are considered high-risk for gang-related violence. Visitors are urged to avoid isolated areas, especially at night, and to stay within resort areas whenever possible.</p><p>Stick to well-lit, populated areas, avoid walking alone and be cautious with valuables. If confronted by robbers, authorities recommend not resisting. Always stay alert and follow the advice of local authorities.</p><p><a href="https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/jamaica" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jamaica Travel Advisory</a></p><h3>Bahamas</h3><br/><p>Last Updated: November 14, 2024</p><p>Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution in the Bahamas due to high rates of crime, especially in Freeport and Nassau.</p><p>Details: While the Bahamas offers picture-perfect beaches, visitors should be aware of the high rates of crime, particularly in Nassau and Freeport. Violent incidents such as armed robberies, home invasions and sexual assaults have been reported, even in popular resort areas and cruise ship terminals. Women should exercise extra caution, as incidents of sexual assault, including cases involving spiked drinks or food, are on the rise.</p><p>The government suggests travellers stick to tourist areas, avoid walking alone at night and keep their valuables out of sight. Be cautious when using ATMs and monitor your credit card transactions for fraud. For safety, avoid excessive alcohol consumption and decline offers of rides from strangers or unlicensed taxi drivers. Always remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.</p><p><a href="https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/bahamas" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bahamas Travel Advisory</a><br/></p><h3>Spain</h3><br><p>Last Updated: November 14, 2024</p><p>Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution in Spain due to the threat of terrorism.</p><p>Details: Spain remains a popular destination for travellers, but the Canadian government advises caution due to the threat of terrorism and petty crime, particularly in major cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Terrorists have previously targeted public areas and transportation hubs, and the current threat level is rated as "high." Visitors are encouraged to stay alert, especially during holidays and large public events.</p><p>Petty crime, like pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in tourist hotspots, including Las Ramblas in Barcelona and the Puerta del Sol area in Madrid. Thieves often work in groups, using distractions to steal belongings. Violent crime is rare but can occur, particularly in vacation rentals or coastal areas.</p><p>Flooding and landslides have also affected areas like Valencia and Andalusia due to heavy rains this week. Travellers should confirm local conditions and stay informed about weather alerts.</p><p><a href="https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/spain" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Spain Travel Advisory</a></p><h3>Brazil</h3><br/><p>Last Updated: November 14, 2024</p><p>Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution due to high crime rates and gang-related violence in urban areas. Avoid non-essential travel to specific border regions.</p><p>Details: Brazil's breathtaking landscapes and vast beaches come with notable risks, especially in major cities like Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and Salvador, where crime rates are high. Tourists may encounter theft, armed robbery and carjacking, with petty crimes such as pickpocketing particularly prevalent near beaches, markets and public transit hubs. Drive-by robberies by armed thieves on motorcycles are common in São Paulo and Porto Alegre. Border areas with countries like Colombia, Venezuela, and Peru are particularly dangerous due to narcotics trafficking and arms smuggling, and travel there should be avoided.</p><p>Avoid isolated areas, walking alone at night, and displaying valuables such as phones or jewelry. In Rio, incidents involving spiked drinks have been reported, often leading to theft or assault. Express kidnappings, where victims are forced to withdraw funds, remain a concern.</p><p><a href="https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/brazil" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brazil Travel Advisory</a></p><h3>Costa Rica</h3><br/><p>Last Updated: November 13, 2024</p><p>Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution in Costa Rica due to crime.</p><p>Details: Costa Rica's natural beauty attracts countless visitors, but petty and violent crime are common concerns. Pickpocketing, purse snatching and thefts from cars frequently occur, especially in tourist hotspots like Manuel Antonio National Park and Montezuma on the Pacific coast, as well as Puerto Limón and Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean side. Thieves often work in teams, using distractions to steal belongings. Passport theft is especially prevalent during peak tourist seasons.</p><p>Violent crime, including armed robberies and assaults, is less common but can happen, particularly in provinces like San José, Limón, and Puntarenas. If threatened, authorities recommend handing over valuables without resistance.</p><p>Recent heavy rainfall has also led to flooding, landslides and infrastructure damage, particularly in Guanacaste and the Pacific region. National parks may close on short notice, and water service disruptions are reported in areas like Escazú and Santa Ana.<span></span></p><p>Costa Rica Travel Advisory</p><h3>Mexico</h3><br/><p>MexicoLast Updated: November 8, 2024</p><p>Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution due to high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping.</p><p>Details: The Canadian government advises <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/canada-travel-advisory-mexico-october-2024" target="_blank" rel="noopener">caution when visiting Mexico</a>, where high levels of crime and kidnappings, including express kidnappings, are reported. Tourists should avoid non-essential travel to high-risk states like Guerrero, Michoacán, and Tamaulipas due to organized crime and violence. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, is common in crowded areas, while violent incidents have occurred even in resorts and tourist hotspots.</p><p>Stick to secure areas, avoid travelling at night, and use reputable transportation services. Keep valuables secure, and don’t resist if confronted by criminals.</p><p><a href="https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/mexico" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mexico Travel Advisory</a></p><h3>Cuba</h3><br/><p>Last Updated: November 8, 2024</p><p>Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution due to shortages of basic necessities, including food, medicine, and fuel.<br/></p><p>Details: <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/canada-travel-advisory-cuba-earthquakes-power-outages-november-2024" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Travellers to Cuba</a> should be prepared for widespread shortages of essentials like food, medication, and fuel. Power outages are frequent, especially outside Havana, and hotels may struggle to maintain services during prolonged outages. Transportation disruptions are common due to fuel shortages, and long lines at gas stations can lead to altercations. Bring necessary items like toiletries, medication, and emergency supplies, and monitor local conditions closely.</p><p>Tourists are also advised to remain cautious of petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft from accommodations or vehicles. Violent crime is less frequent but can occur during burglaries or robberies. In addition, recent hurricanes, including Rafael and Oscar, have caused significant damage in western Cuba and Guantanamo province, where non-essential travel should be avoided.</p><p><a href="https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/cuba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cuba Travel Advisory</a></p><h3>Thailand</h3><br><p>Last Updated: November 8, 2024</p><p>Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution due to ongoing political tensions and sporadic demonstrations. Avoid all travel to certain southern provinces.</p><p>Details: Thailand is experiencing political instability, with demonstrations in Bangkok and other cities that can disrupt transportation and escalate into violence. In the southern provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla and Yala, separatist insurgents have carried out violent attacks, making these areas unsafe for travel.</p><p>Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, is common in crowded tourist areas, on buses, and during events like full moon parties. Visitors should secure belongings, especially passports, and avoid walking alone at night. Demonstration hotspots in Bangkok include Victory Monument and Ratchaprasong Intersection, where heightened security measures may be in effect.</p><p><a href="https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/thailand" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thailand Travel Advisory</a></p><h3>Peru</h3><br/><p>Last Updated: November 4, 2024</p><p>Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution due to high levels of crime, social conflicts, and strikes.</p><p>Details: Travellers to Peru should be aware of frequent demonstrations, strikes, and high crime rates across the country. Strikes can disrupt travel to popular sites like Machu Picchu and may lead to border closures with Bolivia. States of emergency, which are currently in effect in parts of Lima, Callao and other regions, result in heightened police and military presence. Avoid involvement in demonstrations, as participation by foreigners is prohibited and could result in detention.</p><p>Certain areas, including the Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM), face domestic terrorism and drug trafficking threats. Avoid non-essential travel near the borders with Colombia and Ecuador due to safety risks such as landmines and criminal activity.</p><p><a href="https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/peru" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Peru Travel Advisory</a></p><h3>Colombia</h3><br/><p>Last Updated: November 4, 2024</p><p>Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution due to high levels of crime. Avoid all travel to certain border regions.</p><p>Details: The Canadian government warns of high crime rates and a risk of kidnappings in Colombia. Armed groups operate in areas like Arauca, Cauca, and near the borders with Venezuela, Ecuador and Panama. These regions are unsafe due to violent crime and illegal activities, and non-essential travel should be avoided.</p><p>In cities like Bogotá, Medellín and Cartagena, crimes like pickpocketing, express kidnappings and scopolamine druggings are reported. Use caution with dating apps, as criminals often use them to target tourists. Demonstrations are common and can turn violent, disrupting transportation and services.</p><p>Stick to reputable accommodations, avoid isolated areas, and remain vigilant. Avoid hailing taxis on the street, and never leave food or drinks unattended.</p><p><a href="https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/colombia" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Colombia Travel Advisory</a></p><h3>Dominican Republic</h3><br/><p>Last Updated: November 4, 2024</p><p>Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution due to crime.</p><p>Details: Tourists visiting the Dominican Republic should be mindful of opportunistic crimes, including pickpocketing, bag-snatching and theft at resorts, airports and public transportation. Drive-by robberies, where thieves grab belongings from pedestrians or reach into cars, are common. Violent crime, though less frequent, can occur, particularly at night in major cities like Santo Domingo. </p><p>Travellers should only use authorized taxis, secure valuables and avoid walking alone after dark. Credit card fraud and scams, including impersonation by rogue police officers and lawyers, have been reported. Be cautious with food and drinks, as spiking incidents have occurred.</p><p><a href="https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/dominican-republic" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dominican Republic Travel Advisory</a></p></br></br><p>Stay safe in the sun, Montreal!</p><p><em>Before you get going, check out our <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/responsible-travel-guidelines" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Responsible Travel Guide</a> so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.</em></p><p><em>AI tools may have been used to support the creation or distribution of this content; however, it has been carefully edited and fact-checked by a member of MTL Blog's Editorial team. For more information on our use of AI, please visit our <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/editorial-standards" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Editorial Standards page</a>.</em></p>
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