This even goes for trendy clothing. Yes, Uber might be even safer than taxis in Tijuana. He kept asking me To describe them but I told him I didnt remember. Next, make sure to not walk down unfamiliar streets, alleyways, or unlit areas. Is it normal to feel lost after high school? Much of the media surrounding the city is sensationalized. 13 Tips to Get Rich as an Expat Read More , Copyright 2023 Where the Rooster Crows - Best & Safest Places to Visit & Live. Taxi drivers may scam you in this city - especially if you hail one from the street. Families are less likely to be targeted for crimes. The natural disasters risk is low, based on Juarez's location in the middle of the country. Not all the taxis use their meters and can charge you a criminal price when you get to your destination. Many Americans visit Tijuana in Mexico, making it one of the country's most popular tourist destinations. The worst thing ever to happen to me in years and years of going to Tijuana is that I got ripped off once by a shady taxi driver for an extra US$5. Another area to avoid in Tijuana is Zona Centro, or the citys center. However, keep children from wandering off. Some areas of Mexico have increased risk of crime and kidnapping. Many locals and visitors alike continue to enjoy the vibrant culture and beauty of the city without issue. Is Baja California Safe in 2023? Pickpocketing, muggings, and home break-ins are all risks to be wary of. Spain: A Great Destination for Retirees, Expats, Digital Nomads, and More, Malta: The Mediterraneans Best Kept Secret for Retirees, Expats, and Digital Nomads, Red Eye Flights Pros and Cons of Traveling at Night, Why Portugal is the Best European Retirement Option, The Best Countries to Visit in the Caribbean. Avoid the eastern part of the city as it is simply not safe and will have little to see for a tourist. Here are a few notable ones: Its really easy to walk into Mexico. You will want to avoid the red light district Zona Norte (the North Zone) in Tijuana. Most of the begging is going to occur right at the border and on Avenida Revolucin. Various cartel groups and gangs often fight for turf, leading to shootings and deaths. They are fast and quite clever, so you need to make sure your items are protected. 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. Often a so-called tour guide or the like will attempt to befriend you. TheFrench governmentwarns against picking up hitchhikers. This means that this municipality has the largest per capita murder rates in the world. Politely tell them no, thank you, and theyll move on. 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. It was the second Latin-American country to enact anti-discrimination laws for the LGBTQ+ community and in 2011 the Mexican Constitution . Many drivers may not even have a valid license. And lastly, dont use any dangly bags or store your wallet in a loose pocket. Globe-Trotting Without the Worry: The Ultimate Guide to Healthcare for Expats Across the World! You can also pay the bribe. Avoiding Unprofessional or Unlicensed Doctors. Tip: Street vendors may be selling items like popsicles or slushes that were made from tap water, so avoid the water-based food items from street carts. Crime in Baja California typically falls into one of two categories: cartel activity and thievery. Tijuana is Mexicos 6th largest city, and its most dangerous. In this article, Im going to go over some important notes to help you stay safe while in Tijuana. There have been altercations between taxi and Uber drivers, and while passengers havent been targeted, you dont want to be the first. Be wary of fake police officers as well, and always ask to see an ID and speak to a superior. But the reality is that while Tijuana is a wonderful place, its very dangerous to visit. Swim in choppy waters or when there is a warning flag. 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. Cartels also operate in Baja California. Baja is easily accessible from the United States and offers an opportunity to experience Mexicos gastronomy and beaches. I love going to Puerto Vallarta, Cabo, Tulum. Dont accept offers of drugs. Really, Tijuana was just an agriculture mud-hole. Crime rates in Tijuana. Its also good to know a bit of Spanish while youre there. Are there areas of Tijuana that are safer than others? So, dont let the possible threat keep you from visiting. For the best beach resort towns, like Cabo San Lucas, youll want to go further south to Baja California Sur. What should I do if I feel unsafe in Tijuana? | Safety Concerns, The 10 Absolute Best Beaches in California in 2023, The 10 Most Dangerous Countries in Africa in 2023, The 19 Best Places to Visit in Wyoming in 2023, The 2023 Guide to the Cancun Seaweed Season. Tijuana is known for its nightlife, but drunks are frequent targets, especially walking alone. That makes it one of the most popular day trips and weekend destinations in Mexico for Americans, especially people living in California. . And with such a high rate of crime in 2021, citizens can expect very little change in 2022. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. Tijuana is also perfect for day trips from San Diego. It also advises you to always stick to the main roads and highways. In almost all cases, there is a lot of commotion and distractions going on around you, so it makes it easy for the thief to steal from you. Millions of Americans have taken day trips to Tijuana and continue to do so. There are good police officers, and if you break the law, you should pay a legitimate fine or jail time. Additionally, there are plenty of officers around here, so you can always ask them if you get confused. Either use cards for emergencies only, or take cash out at trusted atms either in shopping centers. Then, they turn around and tell their corrupt policeman friend about it. 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. Going over with a group of friends to the touristy Avenida Revolucin should be okay, but travel there only during the day. Some tracks may be unsafe, while others may present no issues. Make sure to use trusted and accredited hotels/hostels. It is always advisable to wear sunscreen when visiting anywhere in Mexico. However, at night, it gets rather sketchy. Its a huge red-light district, and its the largest in North America. The beaches are beautiful and offer great swimming, snorkeling, and diving opportunities. The east side of the city is another area to avoid. The one and only famous caesar salad was invented in none other than Tijuana. You can find souvenirs here and also get a chance to taste some of the local, delicious food. Due to its proximity to the border, Tijuana and its surroundings are hotspots of cartel activity. Stay in a secure hotel, hostel, or Airbnb instead of camping on the beach. If you drink at a nightclub or bar, watch your drink like a hawk. Tijuana is also home to some excellent museums, including the world-famous Museum of Anthropology. But locals characterize it as dangerous for tourists. The line back to San Diego might be a hassle but it'll be worth the trip for a nice gastronomic experience. Travellers Worldwide is reader-supported. The main driving point of crime is a large number of drug cartels moving into the city. The first is your run-of-the-mill pickpocket. Even on streets regularly patrolled at night, you still risk becoming a victim. From Cartels to Contraband: Unveiling the Worlds Top Drug Smuggling Hotspots! Many Americans drive down from San Diego or other California cities and make a road trip to Baja California. for warnings about hurricanes, Zika, and other diseases and natural disasters. Not only could an altercation in a bar turn violent quickly, but you could end up in a Mexican jail. Visas - American and Canadian tourists can visit Tijuana for up to 72 hours without a visa. "That's about . There have been altercations between taxi and Uber drivers, and while passengers havent been targeted, you dont want to be the first. This is how we keep the lights on (i.e. This area encompasses the entire Caribbean coast, from Cancun all the way down to the Belize border. In addition, you will likely see more motorcyclists (usually riding low-powered motorcycles or scooters). See my site Policies Road signs and markings may be missing or not well organized. Some travelers on a day trip to tijuana feel like San Diego however those not used to Mexican culture will find it very foreign. Just be sure to stick to well-known and tourist-friendly areas, as some neighborhoods are best avoided after dark. You can also pay the bribe. The center of Ensenada is safe, as is the promenade on the water and its touristy beaches. The end of 2021 has shown little improvement, and Tijuana has an average of about 164 murders a month now (source - Border Report ). Dont let the cheery colors confuse you they paint the houses those colors to make those areas look more welcoming. A. There is great food and shopping. A drivers license is not acceptable. 9,017 posts. Featuring coastal towns like Rosarito and cities like Tijuana, Baja California has a lot to offer in terms of beaches, nightlife, and family fun not to mention its fantastic food, such as the famous fish tacos. These include the downtown area, the Zona Rio, Zona Centro, Zona Norte, and the beaches. By the end of 2020, Tijuana accounted for at least 2,000 murders. Its about a 45-minute walk from the border, and the directions will be difficult to follow without light. In Tijuana, pickpockets are very active. Drug sales are done right out in the open here, and often youll witness users getting high just off of the main thoroughfares. So in the 1920s Tijuana exploded as a getaway for Americans looking to indulge in both drinking and gambling during prohibition times. There is also parking at the metro station, although many choose to park more North and take the blue line into the border. pay for content, product research, guides, and more). 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. Country Summary: Violent crime - such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery - is widespread and common in Mexico. Is Tijuanas Red Light District Safe? Uber is a better alternative since Uber sets the rates. It's teeming with crooked police . Drug deals are standard, which means that drug dealers and their henchmen are also present. Also, your car isnt safe in either parking locations along the border. Mexican kidnappers are getting more organized and honing in on Americans visiting tourist hot-spots in Mexico. So its quite expensive to park at the border, and you may want to use the metro to avoid paying the parking fees near the border. Questions over Americans' safety in Mexico have been underlined by . Going this weekend. Tijuana is situated within the Mexican state of Baja California, and the heart of the city is only 5 miles from the Pacific coast. Stay in a secure hotel, hostel, or Airbnb instead of camping on the beach. View the San Diego blue line schedule and map here. However, bear in mind that it is illegal. However, food preparation laws are slack here than in America. Thinking about going out for a girls night out but might have to consider going somewhere else because Im nervous of some of the risks after reading through this article. Driving through Baja is generally safe. Armed muggings can also occur at traffic lights, even in busy cities. This goes for tap water and ice cubes. As I mentioned earlier, there is more to the town than its early roots suggest. If youre innocent, pay the bribe on the spot and definitely dont go to the station. The metro and greyhound station is within walking distance of the border. As in many Latin American cities, youll notice neighborhoods on the hills surrounding the cities, which often feature colorful houses. Not for the moment. Cars are the easiest way to get around the city, but you can get by perfectly fine on foot. Its a very safe area, but public transport isnt always available. And finally, you might get pulled over by a corrupt officer who will insist you pay a fine to them. Just make sure you dont explore the city and get safe credible rides to any place. Both the U.S. and Tijuana parking isnt great, and there have been many breakins reported in these lots. Try using a taxi booked through a hotel or Uber. It also advises you to always stick to the main roads and highways. Tijuana is a city, and it experiences crime like all cities. Don't miss out on this exciting city just because of its poor reputation. Tijuana isnt one of those places you go wild in. Zona Norte, also known as Hong Kong District, is one of the most dangerous and highly trafficked tourist areas. Restrictions on nonessential travel across the U.S.-Mexico land border will stay in place through at least Aug. 21, the Department of Homeland Security announced . [viator_tour destination="76] . I thought it wasnt to dangerous and it almost cost me my life. Its not like the Jersey Shore or Miami Beach. Tijuanas food scene is a must for foodies. Tijuana is a safe city to travel. While it may not be as safe as popular tourist destinations like Playa del Carmen, Cabo San Lucas, and Puerto Vallarta, Tijuana is absolutely safe enough to visit. The city has a thriving nightlife, with many bars and nightclubs. 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. Keep a photocopy of your passport with you at all times. Currency - The currency of Mexico is the peso . However, look for a place popular with locals and tourists, as the ingredients will be fresher. Ensenada has some bad areas, but they tend to be on the citys outskirts. Stay in popular tourist-friendly zones. Cash only. Its a bad look. cross from San Diego to Tijuana daily with no issue, and many tourists go home satisfied with their visit. However, with a little bit of common sense and caution, most tourists experience no problems while visiting Tijuana. Dont take your phone out in busy areas. Much of the media surrounding the city is sensationalized. The corruption is rampant, but that doesnt mean all the police officers are out for a buck. As in many Latin American cities, youll notice neighborhoods on the hills surrounding the cities, which often feature colorful houses. Its best to avoid Ensenadas red light district as well. And if you walk in, you can simply walk back very easily. 2023 Copyright by Travel Safe - Abroad. Greyhound offers regular bus services from the San Diego Bus Station downtown (1313 National Ave.) to Tijuana Central Bus Station. The city has a range of food from street vendors serving up some of the best tacos in Mexico to high-end restaurants of many international flavors. Hail a taxi or summon an. Wherever you stay, ask your hotel receptionist or Airbnb host about which areas are safe to visit. Ask where youre staying for the nearest safe atm. if you have to go somewhere after the sun goes down. Bridges over the border and across the Tijuana river become dangerous at night. Start Here Mexico Is Baja California Safe in 2023? It has high rates of violent crime and homicide, with a rate of 105 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants in 2022. In fact, due to corruption and drug violence, Mexico holds the top 5 positions on this list. If you are an expat looking to build wealth, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to help you achieve your financial goals. You're not guaranteed tomorrow, and, often times, you can buy an international plane ticket for less than a domestic one. Yes, travelling alone in Mexico is safe. Being a border town, there is a little of every type of cuisine there. Americans have been traveling across the border for dental work for decades. As you walk, there will be taxi drivers along the pathway offering their driving services. And some parts of Mexico . So is Tijuana dangerous? 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! The two states are next to each other, but Baja California Sur is further south, below Baja California. If youre staying in a hotel, make sure to get bottled water to drink and brush your teeth with. If youre just planning on spending a day or two in the city, head back, and you can have a great time. Staying aware of your situation and taking precautions is the best way to protect yourself while visiting Tijuana. Be aware of pickpockets on public transport and in transportation stations. Calle Coahuila, the area's main strip, is normally teeming with a frenetic . Tourists arent targeted for violence, but that doesnt mean you should tempt fate. Rosarito is generally safe, but avoid isolated areas of the beach, especially at night. More women are murdered here than in any other city, and more American residents are becoming targets of organized crime for kidnappings and home robberies. Plus, being a police officer in this tough city isnt all sunshine and rainbows. 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. There are more people over the last few years visiting the city than ever before. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Yes, Tijuana Mexico safety is secure for medical tourists. Tijuana is a city located in the Mexican state of Baja California, on the US-Mexico border. Menu Menu Location (855) -506-6188 Contact . Its not going to set you back too much to hand out a few dollars. 7. While driving in cities like Tijuana, watch out for dogs crossing the road. While the poverty youll witness here is not on the level of whats in India or even in some parts of South America, you will see it. The places they recommend are typically more expensive as well. Im sure you understand just how bad they are. Mugging isnt as prevalent, and you must look out for it in the wrong neighborhoods outside touristy attractions. Yes. Is it normal to feel lost after high school? Either go on a tour, drive down from California, rent a car in Mexico, or hire a private driver for the day. Bras, money belts or secret bag compartments will do. For most people, the trip down there is uneventful. Avenida Revolucin is a pretty safe area, and its well-trafficked by local police officers. This is quite common in tourist areas down there, so watch out. The vast majority of citizens in Tijuana want you to enjoy your stay. Tijuana has a lot of great food. And the third type is the most dangerous. So, how safe is Tijuana for Americans in 2023? The cartels control important drug and human trafficking routes across the border. The further away you get from the touristy area, the more dangerous it gets. With that said, dont argue with locals. Take the Plunge: 8 Affordable and Incredible Diving Destinations You Dont Want to Miss Out On! The situation has become so dire that the US State Department has issued a Level 4 travel advisory for Tijuana, warning Americans not to visit the city due to the high levels of crime and violence. However, higher-magnitude earthquakes may happen as well. If you plan on using tap water for cooking or drinking, boil it first. Mainly, you want to avoid confrontation and eye contact with them. They then drove him to the border and dropped him off. voiceofsandiego.org. While the rise in crime and violence in Tijuana is concerning, its important to remember that it is not the whole story. If you must travel to Tijuana right now, it may be best to go on a well-protected tour. Because the rates of taxis are not always consistent, I would suggest taking an Uber there. A turf war between the Sinaloa cartel and the Nueva Generacin Jalisco has been the reason for an increase in violence. It is the 6 th largest city in Mexico after all. TIJUANA, BAJA CALIFORNIA/MEXICO JUNE 20, 2018: People walk along Avenida Revolucion, the citys main thoroughfare and a popular destination for Americans traveling south of the San Diego border/Sherry V Smith/Shutterstock. Important Considerations for a Safe Tijuana Visit. Violent crime is possible as well. Youll find all sorts of interesting fruits and vegetables, some of which you might not know about. Most of the time, its just not worth it. The checkups arent held routinely though and often are overlooked when pimps bribe authorities. You should have no problems if you avoid the bad areas and dont draw unwanted attention. Despite that, they dont usually cause trouble for tourists. Even if the police find your stuff (a miracle in and of itself), theyll likely charge you to get it back. Most of them list the fines as 5,000 pesos ($500), but you can argue them down to 500 to 1000 pesos ($25-$50). Various illegal activities occur near the border, and you never know what youll bump into. And about 2/3rds of those murders happened at nighttime. Lastly, be extra vigilant about your belongings. Im sure TJ has its charms but it wouldnt be my first pick on a list of bad cities. But in crowded areas there are pickpockets and thieves and other criminals so its best to be in a group, pay attention to your things and your surroundings. 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. The same goes for Ensenada. Oddly enough, yes. April 30, 2023 2:06 AM PT. Copyright 2023 Where the Rooster Crows - Best & Safest Places to Visit & Live. All in all, youll want to keep your head up and your eyes peeled. These motorcyclists are often in a hurry, as many deliver food for apps like Rappi or Uber Eats. In the alert from July 4, the U.S. Consulate General in Tijuana said there was "potential for confrontations between criminal . We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. The people who approach you on the street often speak perfect English. There are 134 murders per 100,000 people. Never get into an altercation or argument in a bar with a local. Dont go where there are few other people in the vicinity; this includes camping in secluded places. If you buy a product we link to, we may earn a commission. So, dont buy drugs in Tijuana. Theres more to Tijuana than just the nightlife. Theres nothing youll want to see beyond the touristy areas, so familiarize yourself with a map of this city and where they are. Like many border towns, violence has plagued this city for decades. Dont be mistaken though, people live there. Be wary of fake police officers as well, and always ask to see an ID and speak to a superior. Is it Safe to Travel to Tijuana right now? Privacy Policy. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. , and its best to buy bottled water or water filters to prevent food poisoning. Stick to the touristy areas, and avoid walking at night to prevent this kind of crime. So, count your change, ignore people approaching you on the street, and look at hotel reviews before you book. There is a real danger for women who travel alone to Tijuana. In the red-light district, prostitutes are required to carry a permit and get monthly health checkups. Additionally, if youre new to Tijuana, it will be hard to find your way at night. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. Indeed Tijuana has a lot of great shopping, nightlife, and attractions to enjoy as long as you take some basic safety precautions. After all, much of the economy there is based on tourism from the United States. We all get it. On Thursday I went to the the center of town and did some shopping. After you exit on the San Ysidro/International Border stop, you will walk only a short distance through immigration. Many used to live in the US before they were deported for crimes. Over 60 percent of all accidents there are rear-enders and that means you dont have a chance. US Border Patrol. So, dont buy drugs in Tijuana. As soon as you cross that border, the situation changes drastically. Tijuana is a border city in Mexico, located just south of California. Tijuana was voted the most dangerous city for two years in a row. Finally, earthquakes may occur from time to time as well. Travellers Worldwide is reader-supported. Police arent helpful and can be extremely inappropriate. It may not be the classiest part of the city, but you will be among many tourists. Read more about protecting your valuables and the bag I use that has a hidden passport pocket. Its not an easy place to live. Its improbable that you will be a kidnapping victim, asmost victimsare not foreigners but Mexican nationals, but its essential not to wander around alone at night. Some prostitutes may drug and rob men who visit them, and thieves may operate in the area. As a tourist, you can avoid most crimes that will plague the average local. He asked about money and I told him his friends already took everything I had. Don't make yourself a target. 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. You should have no problems if you avoid the bad areas and dont draw unwanted attention. Ensenada has some bad areas, but they tend to be on the citys outskirts. Well, the use of good judgment will determine how safe it will be for you. You dont want to wander around Tijuana at night. La Ruta 3 in Revolucin always has the best waitresses, very friendly. Is it safe to go to Tijuana from San Diego in 2023? The town was nothing but farmland until the early 20th century. Locals, we go out in the city . Weve all been there. Dental care is probably the most common type of medical tourism in Tijuana. Dont eat unwashed salad foods, theres a risk of E. Coli poisoning. Thats especially true on the weekends when there are large crowds. 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. For that matter, you shouldnt begin with, but its just a bad idea to deal with any drug trade there. The most common of these in this Mexican city is overcharging. When you buy bottled water, be sure to check the seal on the cap. And its mostly centered around gang and cartel violence, where tourists arent targeted. Happy travels! Is Afghanistan Safe in 2023? These guys murder like its a hobby for them. Tijuana consistently ranks in one of the top five most dangerous cities in the world based on homicide rates. If you want to visit the beach, Rosarito is a much safer town that offers a much better beach. There is a small risk of hurricanes, but generally only during the months right before and after a hurricane season. They might get so frustrated they simply leave. With its stunning beaches, delicious food, and lively culture, its no wonder why so many Americans are drawn to this city.
What Happened To Conway Twitty's Wife,
Cruise Mobility Scooter,
Articles I