is tijuana safe for american tourists is tijuana safe for american tourists

They then drove him to the border and dropped him off. voiceofsandiego.org. The end of 2021 has shown little improvement, and Tijuana has an average of about 164 murders a month now (source - Border Report ). Avoid fast-talkers or beggars asking for something. This website is using cookies to analyze our traffic, personalize content and/or ads, and provide video content. As a border town, its become a melting pot attracting cooks from many different places. If you feel unsafe in Tijuana, its important to find a safe place and contact local authorities or your embassy. Dont accept offers of drugs. There are 134 murders per 100,000 people, and Tijuana has been ranked the most violent city in the world. Road signs and markings may be missing or not well organized. San Ysidro Land Port of Entry, San Diego, CA. However, its important to weigh the risks and take precautions to stay safe if you do decide to go. Taking the scenic route to your destination runs up the meter, and they receive a kickback from any hotels or restaurants they take you to. It also advises you to always stick to the main roads and highways. The money goes to the station rather than the corrupt officers pockets. Greyhound offers regular bus services from the San Diego Bus Station downtown (1313 National Ave.) to Tijuana Central Bus Station. Globe-Trotting Without the Worry: The Ultimate Guide to Healthcare for Expats Across the World! If youre a couple of young guys heading down to TJ to party a bit, youre probably heading there to chase tail. Even if you prefer solo travel, it is best to travel in a group if you are female. Finally, avoid wandering around near the border except for the official border crossings. Many Americans visit Tijuana in Mexico, making it one of the country's most popular tourist destinations. Either use cards for emergencies only, or take cash out at trusted atms either in shopping centers. Zona Rio has many specialty shops, craft beer bars, a casino, and cultural tours. You dont want to wander around Tijuana at night. The second type is a pickpocket with an accomplice, although they arent as sneaky. The fact of the matter is, this happens and theres not much you can do about it. Tijuana has a lot of great food. You should have no problems if you avoid the bad areas and dont draw unwanted attention. Kidnappings, robberies, and homicides have gone up in the last couple of years to the point where Tijuana has been dubbed the Most Dangerous City In The World. However, all bets are off during the night when the most crime occurs, so you should strive to be indoors at your hotel or back in San Diego by the time the sun sets. My dad is one of them. As you might have guessed, most violent crimes are drug-related in Tijuana. If youre heading to Zona Norte to party, dont get overly intoxicated. These streets are regularly patrolled by officers and are marginally safer than the rest of Tijuana at night. | Safety Concerns, per 100,000 people, many news outlets call Tijuana The Most Dangerous City in The World.. TheFrench governmentwarns against picking up hitchhikers. This is not a city to get lost in. Be aware of pickpockets on public transport and in transportation stations. If you wish to enjoy excellent nightlife and a relaxing city on the water, Ensenada is a quiet and small city that is much safer than Tijuana. Be safe in your hotel or across the border. Many police officers in Mexico are highly corrupt. And Juarez has long been known as the place El Chapo and many other infamous drug kingpins reside. It has high rates of violent crime and homicide, with a rate of 105 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants in 2022. As you walk, there will be taxi drivers along the pathway offering their driving services. And the third type is the most dangerous. In general, you should avoid seedy bars and stick to well-lit popular places within tourist areas. Airports - General Rodolfo Snchez Taboada International Airport is an international airport in Mexicali. Start Here Mexico Is Baja California Safe in 2023? If youre going down there for this type of fun, then pony up and spend a bit more to be safe. Depending on where you travel to, the cost of living in Mexico can vary drastically. Its important to realize that driving in Mexico is not like driving in the United States. Tijuana, located only 30 minutes south of San Diego, is a popular vacation . I know why youre most likely going there. If youre innocent, pay the bribe on the spot and definitely dont go to the station. The main reason for the astronomically high murder rate is the gang andcartel violencein the city. The town was nothing but farmland until the early 20th century. Much of the media surrounding the city is sensationalized. | Travel Tips & Safety Concerns. However, with the recent rise in crime and violence, many are questioning whether it is still safe to visit Tijuana as an American in 2023. Its a huge red-light district, and its the largest in North America. Im sure TJ has its charms but it wouldnt be my first pick on a list of bad cities. If you buy a product we link to, we may earn a commission. Many drivers may not even have a valid license. (In 2023). Its best to apologize and walk away here. Keep dummy wallets for pickpockets and keep your money hidden away. Come on, to party a bit. In front of the Cecut, or cultural center in Tijuana, a confused American tourist wondered whether it was safe to take out his camera and take pictures. Yes, visitors from Tijuana are typically safe as long as they stick to well-patrolled touristy areas and avoid trouble. Yes. Unless youre a Tijuana local, you probably shouldnt cross the border at night. Being a border town, there is a little of every type of cuisine there. However, at night, it gets rather sketchy. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You can also pay the bribe. We may earn a commission when you click this link, at no extra cost to you. US dollars are accepted in Tijuana but not everywhere. If you must go, get a taxi or uber directly to the door of the club. The further away you get from the touristy area, the more dangerous it gets. Bridges over the border and across the Tijuana river become dangerous at night. Click here to get an offer for travel insurance. Its a common story to hear about tourists being pulled aside by corrupt police in Tijuana. While the cartels are stronger in some areas than others, and other states like Sinaloa have more cartel activity, Baja California isnt safe from cartels. We use analytics to understand and improve the website experience, and we do not sell or share any data with a 3rd-party. Tijuana is Mexicos 6th largest city, and its most dangerous. Additionally, there are plenty of officers around here, so you can always ask them if you get confused. | Safety Concerns, Written by: Author Andrew Helling |Reviewed by: Editorial Team, Posted on Last updated: November 22, 2022. Pichardo owns a travel company based in Tijuana. And if you do travel over to Zona Norte, to places like Hong Kongs Gentlemens Club, make sure to take a taxi directly there and back. By keeping track of earthquake warnings, you can better plan your trip. If you lose anything due to crime, dont expect to get it back. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. Baja California is relatively safe for US tourists, as evidenced by the large numbers of travelers who cross the border by car or on foot. The checkups arent held routinely though and often are overlooked when pimps bribe authorities. Is Baja California Safe to Visit in 2023? Be wary of fake police officers as well, and always ask to see an ID and speak to a superior. Crime in Baja California typically falls into one of two categories: cartel activity and thievery. These informal settlements frequently have increased gang activity and high poverty levels, making them unsafe for Americans to wander around alone. Start Here Mexico Is Tijuana Safe to Visit in 2023? And lastly, dont use any dangly bags or store your wallet in a loose pocket. They are going to be looking for anyone by themselves, so its important you dont travel alone there. Flag taxis from the street; take Uber or Didi instead. Because of cartel activity in these areas, between 2007 and 2010, there . In the end, you should try and break the process to prevent more corruption in the future. "It gets categorized and creates this chaos and panic, to go south of the border. If you practice good safety and stick to crowded areas, you can have a great time on your trip. For short trips, yes. in the city. Many police officers in Mexico are highly corrupt. "That's about . It's well known for great seafood like Lobster at reasonable prices. While its the easiest and fastest way to end the situation, youre perpetuating the cycle and telling the police officer its okay to shake down tourists. There is also a risk of Zika virus along the coast, according toTravelHealthPro. As you enter the restaurant, your eyes are immediately drawn to the black and white checked floors that make you feel like youre playing a game of chess. If youre walking over the border to take a few pictures with the famous striped donkey and buy a sombrero, then your trip will most likely be uneventful. Despite the danger, many travelers have no issues when traveling to Tijuana. Not only could an altercation in a bar turn violent quickly, but you could end up in a Mexican jail. The Easy Way: The San Diego Trolley (which is also sometimes called the Tijuana Trolley), takes you directly to the border crossing. Mexican kidnappers are getting more organized and honing in on Americans visiting tourist hot-spots in Mexico. In addition, you will likely see more motorcyclists (usually riding low-powered motorcycles or scooters). It is dangerous. Questions over Americans' safety in Mexico have been underlined by . This website uses cookies to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Often parents will have their children beg. Never get into an altercation or argument in a bar with a local. But locals characterize it as dangerous for tourists. Tijuana is Mexico's 6th largest city, and it's most dangerous. Mexico is considered a developing nation. In 2019, Baja California police reported a total of 800 murders in 1 week. However, there is an increased risk of crime and kidnapping in Baja California, which is why the State Department has released a "Level 3 - Reconsider Travel" advisory for Baja California state.. Lastly, be extra vigilant about your belongings. Also, your car isnt safe in either parking locations along the border. The center of Ensenada is safe, as is the promenade on the water and its touristy beaches. It truly is more trouble than its worth. The most common trouble Americans will face in Baja California is petty crime. More Americans living in the area have become targets of organized crime. The cartels control important drug and human trafficking routes across the border. Make sure you use your phone in a reputable restaurant or store. This area encompasses the entire Caribbean coast, from Cancun all the way down to the Belize border. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Even if youre in Tijuana for a short time, youre going to see poverty. Theyre there to prevent violent crime against tourists, not to help you. Its essential to check the State Departments current travel advisory and recent safety alerts from the US Embassy in Mexico before your trip, so you are well-informed of any potential dangers. However, bear in mind that it is illegal. This means that this municipality has the largest per capita murder rates in the world. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. July 21, 2021 1:41 PM PT. Two men were killed and a third person was wounded during a shooting in a Seattle park Saturday night, police said. You may also have to fill out a form from the Mexican immigration authorities. You should pay traffic fines on the official. Before I continue, its important to distinguish between Baja California and Baja California Sur. Rosarito is generally safe, but avoid isolated areas of the beach, especially at night. Funding the cartels means theyll keep taking over parts of Mexico. Tijuana is safe to visit if you take suitable precautions. Would want to leave our valuables at home and remember to carry small bills for shopping. Here is a list of 10 safety tips you should follow when visiting Tijuana: When traveling to any new destination, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers that may await you. Despite travel warnings from the U.S. State Department, Tijuana is a safe place. They can stop you on the street and pat you down to find something to charge you a fine for. Cash only. El Popo Market is also a great place to go to just to see the local products being sold. If youre a woman then take extra care about what you drink (they can spike the drinks) and dont go outside alone to smoke or just go on walks. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. However, most of the time, its too much trouble for them, and they drop the matter entirely. Muggings, kidnappings and similar street crimes have been known to happen in Tijuana, but they aren't very common occurrences, according to the residents of the city. On Thursday I went to the the center of town and did some shopping. Rent for a 2-3 bedroom apartment or house- In a normal area outside of the city center, expect to spend $400-$600 for a large apart or home. Mexico is generally a poor country, and youll stick out like a sore thumb if youre carrying an expensive camera and wearing gold jewelry. The most common of these in this Mexican city is overcharging. The money goes to the station rather than the corrupt officers pockets. Enjoy. If you plan on using tap water for cooking or drinking, boil it first. As an affiliate, I receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. While driving in cities like Tijuana, watch out for dogs crossing the road. Here are a few notable ones: Its really easy to walk into Mexico. You're not guaranteed tomorrow, and, often times, you can buy an international plane ticket for less than a domestic one. In addition, you will likely see more motorcyclists (usually riding low-powered motorcycles or scooters). Things like a lockable bag, a fanny pack, and even a chained wallet will help deter thieves. Read 10 Tips to protect your valuables while traveling. There are three types of thieves youll come across in Tijuana. Yes, thats right, I said the food is international. Tijuana is a border city in Mexico, located just south of California. There have been altercations between taxi and Uber drivers, and while passengers havent been targeted, you dont want to be the first. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. Along this thoroughfare, youll find typical chain restaurants, souvenir shopping, small markets, and American stores. I would bypass Tijuana and drive further south about 30 minutes to a beach town called Puerto Nuevo. As mentioned above, Los Cabos is currently the deadliest city in Mexico. There have been altercations between taxi and Uber drivers, and while passengers havent been targeted, you dont want to be the first. Police responded to a report of a . Unfortunately, this city is also infamous for being a major center of drug trafficking and organized crime. Families are less likely to be targeted for crimes. Various illegal activities occur near the border, and you never know what youll bump into. Muggers target tourists that may be a bit drunk. Tijuana is a fun place with great shopping and excellent food. Don't waste your hard-earned money. Finally, avoid wandering around near the border except for the. Its unfortunate, although this is probably the most prominent thing to ruin a tourists time while visiting Tijuana. Be vigilant, pay attention, and always have a good understanding of where you are. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. While it isnt as bad in recent years, theres no denying that the police of. Are there any dangers to know about before crossing the border? They can stop you on the street and pat you down to find something to charge you a fine for. If you are an expat looking to build wealth, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to help you achieve your financial goals. The entire area is seedy, and bad things can go down quickly. Uber is a better alternative since Uber sets the rates. Rosarito is generally safe, but crime can still occur. There is a small risk of hurricanes, but generally only during the months right before and after a hurricane season. Learn some Spanish so you can communicate with locals. However, there's no denying that Tijuana is a dangerous city. Don't drink water from the tap here! One of the reasons the State Department increased Baja Californias advisory to a Level 3 warning was the arrest of a cartel leader, which led to increased violence between cartels and the police, according to the. After you exit on the San Ysidro/International Border stop, you will walk only a short distance through immigration. The corruption is rampant, but that doesnt mean all the police officers are out for a buck. Bridges over the border and across the Tijuana river become dangerous at night. A common scam is for a dealer to approach you to sell drugs. If youre staying in a hotel, make sure to get bottled water to drink and brush your teeth with. The main reason for the astronomically high murder rate is the gang and. If you wish to enjoy excellent nightlife and a relaxing city on the water, Ensenada is a quiet and small city that is much safer than Tijuana. However, it does have cartel activity, and crime is also a risk. And do not mess with drugs down there. Water from hotel vending machines is also safe as its purified water. Before your trip to Baja California, Mexico, keep the following advice in mind. However, the greatest risk is the heat, especially in the summer when the temperature can rise above 100 degrees. Traveling to Tijuana and Rosarito, Baja California, poses a "serious risk," according to US officials. Some prostitutes may drug and rob men who visit them, and thieves may operate in the area. | Safety Concerns, Is Norway Safe to Visit in 2023? Its no joke down there in Zona Norte. Tijuana has human trafficking because of the cartels, and you dont want your little ones becoming victims. The first is your run-of-the-mill pickpocket. If you get in the path of these guys, theyll waste you without hesitation. No. Yes! For one, cars are expensive and just paint a larger target on your back. Not for the moment. 7 Day Itinerary to Fiji: A Comprehensive Guide to Exploring Fiji, Where to Travel in South America in August: A Guide to the Best Destinations, Why You Should Think Twice Before Posting on Social Media While on Vacation, Debunking the Myths and Discovering the Thrills of Scuba Diving! Kidnapping is a risk in Mexico, and Baja California is not exempt. Armed muggings can also occur at traffic lights, even in busy cities. The places they recommend are typically more expensive as well. Be wary of fake police officers as well, and always ask to see an ID and speak to a superior. These motorcyclists are often in a hurry, as many deliver food for apps like Rappi or Uber Eats. These cookies do not store any personal information. Is Tijuana dangerous for woman to travel to? According to Fox News, the city is amongst one of the most dangerous in the world due to violence and is currently sitting at a level 2 rating. The biggest safety concern in Rosarito and other surrounding areas such as Tijuana, Mexicali and Tecate has been homicides. Many travelers visit the red light district of Tijuana to hire prostitutes, visit massage parlors, or simply enjoy a drink at one of the many lady bars or strip clubs in the area. And two, you dont know who might be working with the police. Because the rates of taxis are not always consistent, I would suggest taking an Uber there. They will use some type of tactic to win your trust and lure you into a less busy area. If you drink at a nightclub or bar, watch your drink like a hawk. Politely tell them no, thank you, and theyll move on. Even if the police find your stuff (a miracle in and of itself), theyll likely charge you to get it back. If you want to see the world, go see it! Dont let the cheery colors confuse you they paint the houses those colors to make those areas look more welcoming. Additionally, there are plenty of reports of car theft and break-ins within these parking lots. So, dont let the possible threat keep you from visiting. Also, like Tijuana, Ensenada has a Zona de Tolerancia a tolerance zone where prostitution is legal. While the cartels primary income source is not robbing tourists, thats not to say it never happens. Important Considerations for a Safe Tijuana Visit. In fact, due to corruption and drug violence, Mexico holds the top 5 positions on this list. Kidnappers may attempt to extort money from family members as a ransom, or they may take you to ATMs and force you to take out cash in exchange for your freedom. There are more people over the last few years visiting the city than ever before. Many Americans drive down from San Diego or other California cities and make a road trip to Baja California. The dealer gets a cut of the fine, and their racket continues with the next victim. For one, youre going to potentially wait hours in traffic just to filter back into the United States. However, look for a place popular with locals and tourists, as the ingredients will be fresher. For most people, the trip down there is uneventful. Additionally, there will be taxis queuing at the end of the pathway as well. See this list of some of the. Cartels frequently traffic drugs throughout the region. Its a very safe area, but public transport isnt always available. With its stunning beaches, delicious food, and lively culture, its no wonder why so many Americans are drawn to this city. Going over with a group of friends to the touristy Avenida Revolucin should be okay, but travel there only during the day. Pickpocketing, muggings, and home break-ins are all risks to be wary of. Oddly enough, yes. Its a very safe area, but public transport isnt always available. Would want to check out the beach and maybe the wine country on the Pacific coast. (3 wild TJ stories!). However, not all doctors are professional or good at what they do. In Zona Norte, the ladies there are checked monthly. The first is the driving behavior of other motorists. A. History in agriculture, party-going, and food. It is always advisable to wear sunscreen when visiting anywhere in Mexico. The entire area is seedy, and bad things can go down quickly. Baja California Sur is safer than Baja California itself. From the station, there are signs marking the path toward Mexico. However, try to negotiate the price if you choose this option. The beaches are beautiful and offer great swimming, snorkeling, and diving opportunities. Dress casual. Baja is easily accessible from the United States and offers an opportunity to experience Mexicos gastronomy and beaches. The vast majority of citizens in Tijuana want you to enjoy your stay. With that said, dont argue with locals. Many used to live in the US before they were deported for crimes. The victims, two men and two women in their teens and early 20s, said they were headed for a night of partying across the border only to be found strangled, stabbed and beaten a few days later. NY Daily News. Due to the limited food supplies at the time in the region, he invented the caesar salad. The Best Time to Visit Rocky Mountain National Park in 2023, Is Detroit Safe to Visit in 2023? Some people even rent or buy camper vans and sleep on the road. In January, the average temperature is 11.4 C. Got tips, tricks & advice we can learn from? Keep to downtown, Playas de Tijuana, and Zona Norte, and youll avoid any interaction. However, you should stick to the main roads and avoid hitchhikers. Violent crime is possible as well. Traveling to new places has changed our lives, and we hope to share our experience, insight, and passion with you in order to inspire you to change yours as well! Due to its proximity to the border, Tijuana and its surroundings are hotspots of cartel activity. Do your best to avoid neighborhoods such as Reforma, Snchez Taboada, Camino Verde, and Mariano Matamoros. However, a lack of common sense or being in the wrong place at the wrong time can easily make you a victim of a crime. This website is using cookies to analyze our traffic, personalize content and/or ads, and provide video content. Stratfor Worldview. You can drive over the border, and your license is valid in Mexico. As with any city, it is best to avoid wandering around alone at night in areas that are not well-known or are known for being dangerous. This is what most day-trippers to Tijuana experience, and it should go without saying that Revolucion is not representative of Tijuana and certainly not of Mexico. wikivoyage.org. And some parts of Mexico . Stratfor Worldview reports that just in 2017, over 35 million Americans visited Mexico. Dental care is probably the most common type of medical tourism in Tijuana. About 2-3 hrs have gone by and my fianc was tracking my location on my iPhone trying to call store owners in my location to get me into a store. People will come up to you on the street and play the victim for a handout, a food vendor will try to short-change you, and even hotels will try to fleece you with extra fees. Not all the taxis use their meters and can charge you a criminal price when you get to your destination. Tijuana continues to have problems with violent drug-related crimes and gang turf wars in poor neighborhoods. However, is Baja California safe for tourists, both single tourists and families? Theres more to Tijuana than just the nightlife. The earthquake risk is very low in Tijuana. Take only the cash you need for the day and leave all other essential items in your hotel safe no matter where you go in Tijuana. Staying in well-lit areas with high foot traffic, Being aware of your surroundings and any suspicious activity, Using licensed taxi services and avoiding public transportation. Most of them list the fines as 5,000 pesos ($500), but you can argue them down to 500 to 1000 pesos ($25-$50). 1 of 3 expats return home because of these things. After all, the city has been ranked as the most violent city in the world for multiple years running now. If you are kidnapped, never resist. warns against picking up hitchhikers. The center of Ensenada is safe, as is the promenade on the water and its touristy beaches. You can still visit this restaurant. Don't make yourself a target. Even if your GPS app suggests a better route, remember that it may not be safer, so try not to go off the main road too much. It located outside Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico, near the U.S.-Mexico border. The further away you get from the touristy area, the more dangerous it gets. SEATTLE . Ensenada has some bad areas, but they tend to be on the citys outskirts. The city has been plagued by drug cartels, gang violence, and human trafficking, leading to a rise in homicides and other violent crimes. The cultural center announced it would be . We are also a member of several other affiliate networks. People often give their services without being asked and want to be paid for them. While they dont usually target tourists specifically, tourists may get caught up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police and cartels. This neighborhood is fairly dangerous though, and you should use caution here. With a population of 1,763,197, there are 134 murders per 100,000 people. Next, make sure to not walk down unfamiliar streets, alleyways, or unlit areas. During the daytime, its mostly safe. I got picked up a third time. As I mentioned earlier, there is more to the town than its early roots suggest. If you practice good safety, you should have a great time in the city. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. I was in shock and called family and before I could think more police came and did the same thing making me cash advance my credit card. Dont stop to sleep in sketchy areas as well. American Prohibition really made the city what it is. Graham McMillan was walking down a side street near Avenida Revolucion in Tijuana on a recent Sunday afternoon when he felt a vice-like grip on his elbow. Tijuana has always had a reputation for being a bit rough around the edges, but recent years have seen a sharp increase in crime and violence. There are parking lots where you can park your car and then walk over the border to downtown Tijuana, so theres no real need.