I drive to PHX area once a year from TX, have been doing it for years. I just drive thru Drugtown Paso, never even though of stopping even for gas, even the broad day light... Although I have heard that there is a new University, or maybe an old one recently expanded or something, the area around that is nice and safe... If you can avoid the town then avoid it. back to my trip, If I leave late in the day then I stay in Van Horn, stopped there 3 times. If I can leave earlier in the morning, I stop at Las Cruses, stopped there for the night 3, 4 times. Most of the time, I just go non-stop. Both are nice and safe places the spend the night at, El Paso... well... just stay away unless you absolutely have to... its not worth the risk. Although I must add, I have never heard or read about tourists or passerbys getting hurt there.. but, there is always a first time.