With a population of over 2 million people, Tijuana is the largest metropolitan area in northwestern Mexico. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. Though it is a very different experience. 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. Tijuana is a safe city to travel. With recent events transpiring between the United States and Mexico, Tijuana is not a spot you'd want to venture off to right now. Baja California Sur is safer than Baja California itself. Make sure you use your phone in a reputable restaurant or store. When you ask is Tijuana dangerous?, you wouldnt immediately think about water. Bridges over the border and across the Tijuana river become dangerous at night. 15 Tijuana - A Hotbed Of . Keep dummy wallets for pickpockets and keep your money hidden away. Not always. (In 2023). There are 134 murders per 100,000 people, and Tijuana has been ranked the most violent city in the world. Here are a few notable ones: Its really easy to walk into Mexico. With its stunning beaches, delicious food, and lively culture, it's no wonder why so many Americans are drawn to this city.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. How Safe Is Mexicali for Travel? - Travel Safe - Abroad The places they recommend are typically more expensive as well. Learn some Spanish so you can communicate with locals. Bras, money belts or secret bag compartments will do. Another area to avoid in Tijuana is Zona Centro, or the citys center. Cartels and gangs may make illegal roadblocks, demanding money for the privilege of passing or outright robbing you. Im not saying there arent thousands of tourists that go there without incident, but things do unfortunately happen to tourists there every year. Hong Kong is one of the more reputable. Avoid fast-talkers or beggars asking for something. Due to its proximity to the border, Tijuana and its surroundings are hotspots of cartel activity. A San Diego resident said, The worst thing that ever happened to me is I tend to trip on potholes on the sidewalk. However, keep children from wandering off. 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. Just make sure you dont explore the city and get safe credible rides to any place. Tijuana is known for its nightlife, but drunks are frequent targets, especially walking alone. I was in shock and honestly at this time my memory is foggy. The rates appear to be daily, although they are in 8-10 hour increments. Dont be mistaken though, people live there. It is the lowest average temperature of the whole year. And some parts of Mexico . See this list of some of the. Pickpocketing, muggings, and home break-ins are all risks to be wary of. Tourist Kidnappings on the Rise in Mexico | GoGirlfriend In 1924, an Italian immigrant named Caesar Cardini moved South of the border to Tijuana in an effort to improve his restaurant business. Note: If you plan to enter Mexico by land and stay more than 72 hours, you will need to stop in the immigration module located at the border. U.S.-Mexico land border restrictions to last through Aug. 21 - Los After all, the city has been ranked as the most violent city in the world for multiple years running now. Its no joke down there in Zona Norte. Most of the begging is going to occur right at the border and on Avenida Revolucin. The dealer gets a cut of the fine, and their racket continues with the next victim. There are parking lots where you can park your car and then walk over the border to downtown Tijuana, so theres no real need. Mexico usually allows Americans to stay for up to six months on an approved cost-free Visa. Finally, avoid wandering around near the border except for the. In the red-light district, prostitutes are required to carry a permit and get monthly health checkups. The fact of the matter is, this happens and theres not much you can do about it. July 21, 2021 1:41 PM PT. Stick to bottled water or drinks from sealed containers. The people who approach you on the street often speak perfect English. Read more about protecting your valuables and the bag I use that has a hidden passport pocket. I will never step foot in Tijuana again. Yes, Tijuana is dangerous. Going over with a group of friends to the touristy Avenida Revolucin should be okay, but travel there only during the day. Tijuana is a city, and it experiences crime like all cities. Theyre there to prevent violent crime against tourists, not to help you. In my opinion, there isnt any upside to driving your car over the border. Dont have ice with drinks and only drink from factory-sealed bottles. It truly is more trouble than its worth. cross from San Diego to Tijuana daily with no issue, and many tourists go home satisfied with their visit. Avoiding Unprofessional or Unlicensed Doctors. These motorcyclists are often in a hurry, as many deliver food for apps like Rappi or Uber Eats. Hail a taxi or summon an. Most of the time, its just not worth it. US warns Tijuana, Rosarito tourists after cartel arrest - inewsource Cons are everywhere, from the taxi to your hotel and even tours. You're not guaranteed tomorrow, and, often times, you can buy an international plane ticket for less than a domestic one. Oddly enough, yes. They then drove him to the border and dropped him off. voiceofsandiego.org. Its a bad look. 9 Most Dangerous Places in Mexico (to Avoid in 2023) Mugging isnt as prevalent, and you must look out for it in the wrong neighborhoods outside touristy attractions. However, food preparation laws are slack here than in America. 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. However, at night, it gets rather sketchy. It also advises you to always stick to the main roads and highways. Finally, avoid wandering around near the border except for the official border crossings. They might get so frustrated they simply leave. Water from hotel vending machines is also safe as its purified water. Sometimes they work in groups. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. Most earthquakes are, fortunately, low-magnitude earthquakes, so you are unlikely to experience harm. 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. are not foreigners but Mexican nationals, but its essential not to wander around alone at night. There have been altercations between taxi and Uber drivers, and while passengers havent been targeted, you dont want to be the first. Is Afghanistan Safe in 2023? For short trips, yes. Im sure TJ has its charms but it wouldnt be my first pick on a list of bad cities. At 7.7 times more than Detroit, the end of 2019 recorded 2,100 total murders in Tijuana. Not only is it illegal, but its dangerous. Taxi drivers may try taking you to restaurants or hotels. Generally, the Eastside of Tijuana is pretty dangerous, so stay west of Zona Rio. If you practice good safety, you should have a great time in the city. 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. Youll find all sorts of interesting fruits and vegetables, some of which you might not know about. Theres food from all regions of Mexico and some American fare since its so close to the border. 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 . It is, actually, the northern-most airport in Mexico. Zona Ro, Centro, Hipdromo, Playas are all tourist friendly and safe. 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. Unfortunately, the city holds the record of having the highest femicide rate in the world. Tips on Tijuana Warnings or Dangers - Stay Safe! - SmarterTravel While the cartels primary income source is not robbing tourists, thats not to say it never happens. Some prostitutes may drug and rob men who visit them, and thieves may operate in the area. Americans have been traveling across the border for dental work for decades. The same goes for Ensenada. 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. It will take about 45 minutes. Its worth paying a bit more for a doctor, plastic surgeon, or dentist who has good reviews and recommendations from other foreigners and who speaks English. More Americans living in the area have become targets of organized crime. Its okay to attempt to negotiate prices, although you probably wont get too much deducted when on the main stripe in Zona Centro. Taxi drivers may scam you in this city - especially if you hail one from the street. However, if you are a first-time visitor to Tijuana or Mexico in general, it is recommended that you dont drive. Would want to check out the beach and maybe the wine country on the Pacific coast. Theyre like buses but dont have a set schedule. As a safe bet aim stay vigilant no matter where you find yourself in the country. Don't make yourself a target. Avoid the eastern part of the city as it is simply not safe and will have little to see for a tourist. Petty crime like pickpocketing and theft is prevalent even in touristy areas, particularly in crowds. Don't waste your hard-earned money. Yes, thats right, I said the food is international. These establishments will overcharge immensely and give the driver a commission. Much of the media surrounding the city is sensationalized. Is Tijuana dangerous for woman to travel to? You will want to avoid the red light district Zona Norte (the North Zone) in Tijuana. You can find parking lots on the U. S. side of the border from Tijuana. There are also money exchanges at the station, and Id advise getting some money exchanged here before you cross. So, once the sun ducks below the horizon, you should be solidly inside your hotel. He asked about money and I told him his friends already took everything I had. If you think youre being overcharged for a taxi, a trip from the border to the center of town should be around $5 (USD). 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. For one, youre going to potentially wait hours in traffic just to filter back into the United States. A common scam is for a dealer to approach you to sell drugs. | Travel Tips & Safety Concerns, Is Albania Safe in 2023? The price depends on the day of the week, time of the day, the season, and whether you chose an . For that matter, you shouldnt begin with, but its just a bad idea to deal with any drug trade there. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. Stay in safe neighborhoods. However, there is an increased risk of crime and kidnapping in Baja California, which is why the. However, you should stick to the main roads and avoid hitchhikers. Various illegal activities occur near the border, and you never know what youll bump into. Many Americans drive down from San Diego or other California cities and make a road trip to Baja California. Road signs and markings may be missing or not well organized. Be safe in your hotel or across the border. Pichardo owns a travel company based in Tijuana. Lastly, be extra vigilant about your belongings. If you go out at night (mostly interested in the nightlife), again make sure you dont go alone. Is Tijuana Safe? Travel for Tourists | Jet Medical Tourism Exploring LA on Foot: How to Stay Alive While Strolling the City of Angels! The one and only famous caesar salad was invented in none other than Tijuana. Tijuana is Mexicos 6th largest city, and its most dangerous. And two, you dont know who might be working with the police. After threatening him with three days in jail, McMillan said, the officers suggested McMillan pay them a bribe. While they dont usually target tourists specifically, tourists may get caught up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police and cartels. However, food preparation laws are slack here than in America. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The minute you come over, youll see begging. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. View the San Diego blue line schedule and map here. Violent crime is possible as well. Stratfor Worldview. You can find souvenirs here and also get a chance to taste some of the local, delicious food. How Safe Is Mexico for Travel? - Travel Safe - Abroad Dont go wandering around this neighborhood, because trouble will find you. The natural disasters risk is low, based on Juarez's location in the middle of the country. It is also a city full of friendly . Areas frequented by tourists are generally safe in Tijuana, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings at all times and avoid walking in bad neighborhoods at night. For one, they are drugs. 7. "That's about . Tijuana is not an area that has been the target of terrorist threats in recent history. Stay in popular tourist-friendly zones. Did you know the striped painted donkey is called a Zonkey? See state summaries and advisory levels below for information on your specific travel destination. The further away you get from the touristy area, the more dangerous it gets. pay for content, product research, guides, and more). Families are less likely to be targeted for crimes. I do not represent World Nomads. | Safety Concerns. There are 134 murders per 100,000 people, and Tijuana has been ranked the most violent city in the world. The city is famous for profitable drug smuggling routes into the US, and cartels fight tooth and nail over them. Some plastic surgeons may not have the proper licenses. This website uses cookies to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Politely tell them no, thank you, and theyll move on. It also advises you to always stick to the main roads and highways. Yes, driving to Tijuana is safe. Rosarito is generally safe, but crime can still occur. Over 60 percent of all accidents there are rear-enders and that means you dont have a chance. US Border Patrol. Do your best to avoid neighborhoods such as Reforma, Snchez Taboada, Camino Verde, and Mariano Matamoros. 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. Is Tijuana Safe? Our Guide To The Mexican Border Town