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[Daniel]

CASUAL TOURIST’S GUIDE TO TIJUANA: The Bare Essentials

Tijuana is a great place for tourist. Prices are far lower than the going rate in the US for many things—like medications and restaurants—plus there are interesting things to do and see.

If you take the last exit (Camino de la Plaza) on I-5 or I-805 you will find several parking lots where you can leave your car. Parking lot rates and policies, together with information about which lots are the safest are discussed in the guide. A good lot to use is the Border Station Parking lot just west of I-5 on the Camino de la Plaza exit. (When driving towards Mexico on I-5 take the Camino de la Plaza exit. At the signal light at the end of the exit ramp turn right (west) onto Camino de la Plaza. The Border Station Parking lot will be on your right just as you finish turning onto Camino de la Plaza. The fee is $7.00; it is fenced and has 24-hour security. You can get a dollar off coupon at http://gototijuana.com/bsp/. The Border Station lot also has the advantage of having a bus that takes you to downtown Tijuana for $2.50. The bus will drop you at the MexiCoach station in downtown Tijuana near 7th and Revolución. This is the heart of the tourist district.

I recommend going to Tijuana during the day until you gain a little familiarity with the city. The guide explains where in TJ to catch the bus to return to the US, which can be a better way of crossing on a hot day when the line is long. Using the trolley to reach the border is also covered in the guide.

If you park your car on the US side and choose not to take the Mexicoach bus, then you will be crossing the border on foot. (Personally I prefer walking to taking the bus.) Ask the parking lot attendant how to get to the border from the lot of your choice. As soon as you cross the border you will see yellow taxi cabs. The going rate is $5.00 for a trip to Ave. Revolución, where most tourists seem to want to go first. The guide also provides the name of streets in the core areas of the Zona Norte and downtown Revolución areas as well as how to orient yourself. The guide explains where to find a taxi libre, which costs less than a yellow cab.

As I said above, I recommend leaving your car on the US side of the border. Unless you want to do something like travel on to Ensenda or go to Puerto Nuevo for lobster, there is much to be said for leaving for car on the US side of the border. (Like a reentry time of 2 hour by car versus 20 minutes by foot.) If you do take your car to Mexico be sure you buy Mexican Auto Insurance. If after exiting I-5 at the Camino de la Plaza ext and turning right at the signal at the end of the ramp you continue on Camino de la Plaza past the Border Station Parking lot you will see a place on the left where you can buy Mexican auto insurance. For $5.00 you can leave your car in insurance company parking lot while you go to TJ; however, this lot is not as secure as the Border Station parking lot. If you turn around on Camino de la Plaza, so that you are heading towards the freeway, the street signs will show you how to reach Mexico by car. Again, I recommend against driving to TJ, especially if you are unfamiliar with Tijuana’s streets.

You do not need to speak Spanish to have fun in TJ. Wherever you go you will find that cab drivers, waiters, hotel clerks, providers, etc. all speak enough English that you will not have a language barrier related problem.

Taxis, bars, hotels, and restaurants all accept dollars. To avoid the “I don’t have change” scam, carrying lot of ones and fives is prudent. The guide discusses other common scams, together with the pros and cons of converting dollars to pesos, where to convert money, where to find ATMs (even ATMs that give dollars as well as pesos), and advantages (or rather disadvantages) of using credit cards.

To enter Mexico walk south on Camino de los Camiones, past the Duty Free shops, until you reach the border crossing gate. (Don’t be bashful about asking the parking lot attendant for directions to the border.) You enter Mexico by passing through a revolving turnstile gate. As soon as you pass through the turnstile you are in a little mall with two turnstile exits. About half way down the walkway you will see a Money Exchange booth. If you turn to the right you will exit through a turnstile that brings you to a street filled with pharmacies. It you continue straight ahead you will pass through a turnstile that brings you directly to the yellow cab parking lot. On your first visit I recommend going straight ahead and exiting the turnstile into the yellow cab parking lot. Don’t worry, whichever turnstile you pick you will see plenty of yellow cabs.

Be sure to carry ID with you. Technically you need to prove your identity and right to live in the US to the customs agent to reenter the United States. A passport, of course, does both; however, few people use a passport. A valid driver’s license for US citizens is usually adequate. Non-citizens should carry a green card or passport in addition to their driver’s license. Additionally, if the police in TJ stop you then you need to have ID to prove your identity.

Want to stay overnight? The guide contains information about downtown hotels and some very nice (four star or better) hotels that Tijuana offers.

Want something to eat? The guide covers places to eat in the downtown (Revolución) area. It also contains information about some really good places to eat; places most cities in the US would list as being among the “best of the best” restaurants the city offers.

Don’t want to spend all day in line when returning to the US? The guide offers a few tips on how to beat the line and best times to cross.

Nervous about going to TJ? I, and many others, consider TJ safer than the downtown areas of many US cities. The guide contains a lot of advice about scams and what to do to protect yourself from scam artists, muggers, and corrupt cops. (While problems are rare, a rule I emphasize is that if you can't afford to lose it then leave it at home--especially things like wedding rings.) There are sections about what to do if stopped by a cop and how to report a corrupt cop using the Internet. (Fortunately, these experiences are exceptions rather than the normal TJ experience.) As I said, TJ is a fairly safe place to visit; however, if you read and follow the advice offered in the guide you will increase your likelihood of staying out of trouble when in Tijuana.

For those of you who are eager to get started:
Take I-5 south.
Take the Camino de la Plaza exit, which is the last exit before the border.
Proceed to the signal at the exit ramp. Turn right (west) onto Camino de la Plaza.
Park in the Border Station Parking lot. You’ll see it on your right as you make the turn.
Walk across the border. (Ask the parking lot attendant for directions to the border.)
Take a yellow cab for to Revolución (for $5.00) or where ever your destination is.
Then get down to business.

Those who want more information will find it by reading the guide in greater detail. It contains the following sections:

The Bare Essentials
How & Why the Guide Was Written
Traveling to the Border & Parking
Safety Advice
Money & ATMs
Crossing the Border
TJ Destinations
TJ Attractions
Taxis
Driving in Tijuana
Returning to the US
Hotels
Restaurants
Phone & Internet Use
Useful Phrases
TJ Cops
Summary

I hope you find this guide helpful in exploring Tijuana. If you need additional information this board is a great place to ask questions.

Have fun,

Daniel

CASUAL TOURIST’S GUIDE TO TIJUANA: How and Why This Guide Was Written

I’ve been going to Tijuana for several years now. In the beginning I benefited from the advice of real TJ vets who kindly took me under their wing. While I don’t consider myself to be in their league, I feel I have learned enough to help those who haven’t yet been to Tijuana. So in the hope of helping others, I decided to write this guide.

I hope the real TJ vets will post their own advice correcting and amplifying my remarks. Since I’m doing this from memory I expect there will be some errors needing correction. A further note: things change over time. For detailed, up-to-date information I suggest posting questions. Tijuana vets have a wealth of knowledge, and good information should be easy to obtain.

This guide was prepared based upon the way things were in May 2005. It will be interesting to see what changes the future brings, and how quickly things change. One thing I hope will not change is the willingness of TJ vets to give “newbies” sound advice.

CASUAL TOURIST’S GUIDE TO TIJUANA: Getting to TJ & Parking

Traveling to the Border
By car Tijuana can be reached by going south on either I-5 or I-805. (I prefer I-5.) The best route probably depends on which parking lot you intend to use. Be sure to take the last exit so you don’t end up in Mexico by mistake. (There are some guys who take the next to last exit so as to avoid the risk of overshooting the last exit. They then use surface streets to approach the border.) The last exit headed south off both I-5 and I-805 is the Camino de la Plaza exit. It is also marked in yellow, “Last Exit.”

If you do overshoot the last exit then try to immediately get in the far left lane and use the U-turn option. Although it may look closed, the Custom Inspector will deflate the barrier allowing you return to the US. (Tell him you were trying to reach the outlet malls by the border and went to far.)

The last stop of the San Diego trolley is a very short distance from where one crosses back into the Unites States. There are many TJ vets who use one of the free Park and Ride stations to take the trolley to Tijuana, which is a little cheaper than parking in a paid lot. Driving towards Mexico, two convenient Park and Ride lots are allocated just east (left) of I-5 at the E Street and H Street exits in Chula Vista (about 7 miles north of the border.) The H street lot is larger, perhaps better lighted but there is more traffic on H Street because the Chula Vista Mall is located on H Street a few blocks from the freeway.

Some who travel to TJ from Los Angles and other cities use Amtrak or the Coaster. At the Santa Fe train station in downtown San Diego they switch to the trolley to reach TJ. For those who travel long distances or who party late into the night a sleeping car offers obvious benefits.

From the San Diego airport you can take a cab or bus to the trolley. Just outside the baggage doors look for the blue bus stop signs. Take Route #992 and get off at the America Plaza at Broadway and Ketner. Ask the bus driver for a transfer (you may need to pay a fee for the transfer so carry some coins). Across the street you board the trolley. There are two trolley lines, the orange line and blue line. Take the blue line to San Ysidro. You then need to use the pedestrian ramp to cross over the freeways in order to enter Mexico.

Parking
Interstate I-805 joins I-5 near the border. You enter Mexico on the west side of I-5 and return to the US on the east side of I-5, so whichever parking lot you choose you have to cross the freeway at some time during the trip. Unless, of course, you use your car or the bus to enter or leave Mexico. On the US side of the border the MexiCoach bus can be boarded in the Border Station Parking lot on Camino de la Plaza just west of I-5.

Different parking lots have different rates, so investigate before you park. Some lots offer eight hour parking, others (such as Border Station) offer parking for 24-hours or until 10:00 am, whichever comes first, and some (like the Duty Free lot) even have a true 24-hour rate. In general the lots east of the freeway (off I-805) don’t offer 24-hour rates, while those west of the freeway offer twenty-four hour rates. The cheapest parking is probably in the Gateway Motel on the east side of the freeways. On the west side of the freeway, the parking lot for the UTEP Duty Free Station—which also says SVG Parking—is seven dollars per 24-hours. The Board Station Parking Lot (just after one exits I-5) is $7.00 for 24-hours or until 10:00 am, whichever comes first. (Don’t forget to print out some $1.00 off coupons from http://gototijuana.com/bsp/.) if you are going to use the Border Station lot. The parking lot in the agency that sells Mexican Auto Insurance on Camino de la Plaza west of I-5 charges $5.00 until 8:00 am the next day. There is free street parking along Camino de La Plaza west of I-5. I’ve used street parking overnight (and over a weekend) with mixed results. Obviously don’t violate the 72-hour street-parking limit if you don’t want your car towed.

I think it is the general consensus of those I know that the Border Station parking lot is a safe place to leave your vehicle. Many also speak highly of the Duty Fee lot. I’ve used both many times without incident. (I’ve also used parking lots of the east side of I-5 without difficulty.)

Do not park in the store parking lots for K-Mart, the Outlet Mall, etc. The signs mean what they say, and they vigorously tow cars left in their lots by people going to TJ. If you decide to ignore this advice at least try to return before the stores close because at closing time they put up a chain and the tow trucks go to work. (A safety practice I follow is to always leave enough money hidden in the car to pay double the expected parking fee with enough left over to get home.)

I recommend parking in the US over taking your car into Mexico for several reasons. There isn’t much street parking available in TJ so you will probably have to park your car in a TJ parking lot and use cabs anyway. I consider it safer to use a US parking lot than a TJ lot. It takes much longer to cross back into the US by car than on foot (like two hours verses twenty minutes), which is reason enough for me to leave my car behind. Most US drivers find Mexican drivers reckless. Do you really want to drive in a strange city with people honking at you and cutting you off when you don’t know where you are going? If you are going to Ensenada, Rosarito, etc. then take your car, otherwise my advice is the leave it in a US parking lot, especially if you are unfamiliar with TJ. (Budget, Dollar, and other companies familiar to Americans have subsidiaries in Mexico that also rent cars. Your US driver’s license and a credit card will allow you to rent a car. Check around as rates vary greatly. The Buget rent a car near the Hotel Lucerna seems to have good rates. You might want to rent a car to the risk of yours being stolen—although I do not consider the risk to having your car stolen to unacceptably high—or to avoid a long wait at the border. It is not the cheapest option, but it is something to consider. Especially on a holiday weekend when you want to go to Ensenada and don’t want to spend half a day waiting to cross back into the US.)

If you do drive in Mexico be sure you have Mexican auto insurance. (You can buy it just after you cross into Mexico or at several of the interstate exits in Chula Vista just before crossing the border. You can also buy it west of I-5 on Camino de la Plaza.) Remember, US insurance is not valid in Mexico. Also, Mexico has different laws than the US, and if you get in an auto accident you likely will face criminal charges as well as have to pay for the damage you caused. (Expect the local to win.) Without Mexican auto insurance you could be detained and required to post bond before you are released and allowed to return to the US. When buying Mexican auto insurance I also recommend buying legal coverage so you will have an attorney to represent you.

If you are in an auto accident, don’t move the car. The police will take the parties before a judge who will determine who is a fault. If you do not have insurance at a minimum you will be required to post bond before you are allowed to leave Mexico. (See why you want insurance with legal coverage.)

CASUAL TOURIST’S GUIDE TO TIJUANA: Safety Advice

Safety
Let me start by saying that I feel much safer in TJ at night than in the downtown areas of many US cities (such as Los Angles, New York, and Detroit). Also, you are far more likely to be scammed than mugged while in TJ.

However, there are several safety measures I follow. Let’s start with a basic rule: If you can’t afford to loose it, then leave it at home. Don’t take things—like wedding rings—that can’t be replaced to TJ. Leave them at home. The same is true of expensive watches and jewelry. If you have an expensive watch, then buy a cheap one to use in TJ and leave your expensive watch at home (or in the glove compartment of your car).

I have a car key case that holds a couple of credit cards and a duplicate key to my car. I put my California ID card, one ATM card, and my AAA card in the key case. (The AAA card is good for obtaining discounts at some of the better hotels.) I leave my wallet and the rest of my keys locked in the trunk of my car. I also carry a “flash” wallet when in TJ. It contains all the ones and fives that I need for cabs, dining, and things of that nature. My “flash” wallet is the only place I want people to think that I carry money. I recommend a zippered belt for reserve cash (check the LL Bean catalogue). Wearing a money belt under your shirt or on your ankle is better than nothing, but many muggers know about them. A normal appearing belt with a “secret” zippered compartment in my opinion is more likely to escape detection. I only transfer money from my money belt to my wallet while I’m in a place of privacy, like a rest room stall with a door on it. I read once about somebody who puts some extra cash in a sandwich baggie he cuts to size and tapes to the inside of the toe of his shoe. (He probably figures no mugger is going to search his shoes and that it won’t be noticeable to anybody who sees him without his clothes.) He sounds like a smart man to me. Carrying your money in several different pockets or places is always prudent. (I also know of one person who wears a pocket T-shirt inside so that his money is next to his skin.)

Since I go to TJ frequently I have a special TJ checking account, which is not connected to any of my other bank accounts. The ATM card I take to TJ is linked to my TJ account—and none of my other accounts. Even if the card gets stolen and the PIN number somehow is discovered resulting in the thief draining the account I won’t suffer a major financial loss.

I also have a credit card with a low limit. I use this when making purchases over the Internet or by telephone. I try to keep it paid off. This is the credit card I take to Tijuana, if I take a credit card. ($500.00 on a credit card will let me do anything I ever want to do in Mexico.)

In general I recommend against using credit cards in Mexico. Sometimes the bill gets “padded” after you sign the receipt. (Always “X” out spaces on which additional charges could be added after you leave.) Additionally, some clerk may record the credit card number resulting in fraudulent charges on you account. (Do you really want the hassle of contesting them?) I use a credit card as a last resort.

Make a list of the ATM cards, credit card numbers or similar things you take with you into Mexico. Be sure your list also contains the number to call to report a stolen card, cell phone, etc. Leave a copy at home and another in your car. (You might also send yourself an e-mail that contains this information.) If something is stolen you want to be able to report the theft fast. (Elsewhere in this guide I explain how to use telephones and the Internet in Mexico. You could even report the loss before leaving Mexico if you sent yourself an e-mail with the information and know how to use the phones in TJ.) If you do have to report something as being stolen as send a confirming letter. My understanding of the law is a lost or stolen card must be reported in writing to protect you, so to be safe send a letter after making your phone call.

If you don’t need your cell phone then leave it behind. If you take your cell phone, be sure it is set to roaming. While in TJ check that it works. (I have Sprint and find I have decent coverage in TJ. You may need to add features to your plan. Adding the capability to receive calls while outside the US was free, but it was something I had to request.) If your cell doesn’t work in TJ then leave it behind in the future.

I also suggest leaving your PDA behind. If you feel “naked” without the information then I suggest you sync it with something like Yahoo. (Or send yourself an e-mail containing the information you are likely to need while in TJ.) Internet cafes are easy to find in TJ and usually charge a buck and a half for 60 minutes with a DSL connection. (More about them elsewhere.)

Don’t carry anything that can be remotely construed as being a weapon while in TJ. That includes things like little Swiss army knives and maybe even fingernail files. Having a firearm in Mexico is asking for serious prison time. The cops do periodic bar sweeps and if you have a weapon you could be in trouble. They want to keep violence to a minimum and that starts by seeing nobody carries weapons.

You are in more danger of tripping and falling than being mugged. Sidewalks are not maintained according to US standards. Be careful where you walk so you don’t trip and fall, especially when drinking.

Elsewhere in greater detail I discuss guys who wander the streets trying to be your friend, guide, etc. Some of these guys also sell drugs and are involved in other illegal activities. Don’t talk to them--shun them. Do you really want the cops seeing you talking to a known drug dealer, especially if he’s carrying something on him? (You can get into big trouble in Tijuana with drugs.)

While I generally feel safe in TJ, I take common sense steps to reduce my risk of being mugged. I walk near the curb or in the street at times and I avoid walking next to dark doorways, alleyways, etc. I stick to main streets and avoid poorly lighted streets and almost all alleys. I walk with a purpose, make eye contact with those around me, and above all don’t wander around drunk. I avoid walking back to the border in the dark. By sticking to well-lighted areas where people surround you I think your risk of having problems is low, especially if you are sober.

I, like many others, feel safe going to TJ alone. I don’t think it necessary to go in a group. If, of course, you are nervous going to TJ alone then by all means take a friend. If you are planning on getting wasted then you are probably better off with company. It is probably best to make your first trip to TJ in the daylight. After you know your way around you shouldn’t have problems going there at night.

Drugs and weapons can get you into serious problems in TJ. (Some guys think they can buy their way out of problems. Some have learned the hard way that isn’t always the case—and is very expensive even when it can be done. I, for one, do not want to do time in a Mexican prison.) Don’t do drugs; carry them; or be around anyone using, carrying, or selling them. Avoid being near or being seen with drug dealers. Stay away from places where drugs are bought and sold. Enough said for the wise.

Pickpockets are a problem the world over. They usually work in pairs. One person distracts you while another lifts your wallet. A new variation on this theme is having somebody (maybe a child) thrust flowers or gum in your face that you are asked to buy while somebody lifts your wallet. Be wary of your personal space and hold onto your wallet if somebody gets too close.

Another thing to be careful of is somebody asking you for a light for their cigarette. It may be a set up for a mugging or having your pocket picked. A variation on this theme is the cigarette is actually a joint of marijuana that the person throws on the ground in front of you so a corrupt cop can arrest you for being in possession of drugs. (I only heard of the latter happening once, but it is creative.) The short version is, don’t stop to light a cigarette for somebody you encounter on the street.

Muggers works in twos or threes. If you do get mugged don’t play tough guy, just give them what you they want and get it over with as quickly as possible. (Before they find your “secret” reserve money.) If you follow the rule about leaving things behind that you can’t afford to lose then the damage will be minimal. Finally, if you sense danger take off running. Better to lose your dignity than your wallet.

For those who must visit bars, I recommend always having a waiter open a bottle of beer in front of you, and sending back an open bottle. I’ve heard very few stories about spiked drinks, but this is certainly on of those times it is best to err on the side of caution.

Most of the people who get into trouble should have seen it coming. Don’t go exploring alleys and the seedy side of town. If you try to buy drugs, false ID, etc. you are setting yourself up for trouble. Stay out of the alleys, rest rooms, etc. the bad guys are likely to use. If you do that and don’t stumble around drunk your chances of getting mugged are low. As I said, most people who get mugged put themselves in harms way.

Deported US Felons
I’m giving this a separate heading because it is a serious problem. There are many men in Mexico who were deported from US prisons. Generally they speak excellent English and their ability to speak English is their way of gaining your confidence. (Besides speaking perfect English they often are highly tattooed.) These guys roam the streets trying to act as guides and preying on tourists. Be wary: they will scam or you rob you given the slightest opportunity. They are good at what they do. When I say slightly opportunity that is exactly what I mean with an emphasis on the word slightest. Don’t let them lure you into alleys, back rooms, rest rooms, etc. They will promise you anything they sense you want: information, directions, drugs, false ID, Rolex watches, etc. They are very convincing and seemingly trustworthy, however; they will never deliver. Count on their finding a way to scam or rob you if you have the slightest dealings with them. They are the real danger in Tijuana. You have been warned.

Some of these guys will approach you with hard luck stories, such as having mugged. They are just that, stories. If you want to help out somebody who needs charity there are many in far more need of assistance.

CASUAL TOURIST’S GUIDE TO TIJUANA: Money & ATMs

Money
Dollars are accepted everywhere in Tijuana; I seldom convert dollars to pesos when going to TJ. Others, however, prefer to convert dollars to peso. A friend commented, “I don't see why you never convert dollars to pesos. You're missing out on an 11% discount. I don’t convert because I’m lazy and just not interesting in what I view as “nickel and dime” savings. However, my friend has a valid point. Especially since there have been times I’ve been victimized by places giving me a lousy exchange rate. I’ll admit there have been times that having some pesos in my pocket would have been handy.

When the exchange rate was about 10:1 it didn’t make much difference. Now that the exchange rate is 11:1 obviously you save $5.00 if somebody gives you the old rate. (At 11:1 if the fee were $50.00 then you should pay 550 pesos. If somebody accepts 500 pesos, instead of 550 pesos, you just saved $5.00.) When the exchange rate is greater than 10:1 you may come out ahead converting dollars to pesos. If the exchange rate is under 10:1 then you probably will do better paying in dollars. Since the exchange rate has only recently changed from 10:1 to 11:1 it remains to be seen how long it will take for people to adjust to the new rate. (It will be interesting to see how much and how quickly the exchange rates changes after December 2003 when this was written.) The guiding principle, I suppose, to figure out whether mental math favors pesos or dollars and act accordingly.

A friend gave me this advice regarding the best place to convert money:
”The best rates in all of TJ is located in Otay near the Calimax Caliente intersection. There is a Cambio stand near Yindos bakery and the rates are so good that every morning there is at least a 15 minute wait to change your pesos into dollars.” The funny thing about cambio places is that there really isn’t a big difference between them unless you are changing thousands of dollars. I mean changing 100 dollars at a better stand may net you an extra buck compared to another place so it is really not a big difference. This Otay stand does have amazing rates better than anyone and that is why they attract TJilians all over! So with all that said feel good about changing your pesos right at the border near the taxi stands or anywhere near Revolucion.

Often most (but not all) the places on San Ysidro Blvd and Revolución have the worst rates. The best rates (and no commission) in Tijuana are at 10th and Revolución., One casa de cambio just to the north of Club Amnesia's entrance, the other place is just kiddy-corner across the street next to the Italian restaurant. Also that there are many casa de cambios that have good rates on Medero (one block east of Rev), between 5th and 2nd.

As I said before, you are more likely to be scammed than mugged in TJ. The number one Tijuana scam starts with “I don’t have change.” So carry plenty of ones and fives. When buying a drink, if you give the waiter a twenty there is a good chance you won’t see him or your change again.

The number two scam is when you give somebody a twenty and he claims it was only a one of five. Form the habit of saying “do you have change for a twenty” before handing anybody money. Better yet, carry an adequate supply of small denomination bills in either pesos or dollars.

Both Mexican currency and US currency often use the $ symbol. Mexican pesos often also carry an MN (for national money) abbreviation in contrast US or USD, which is used when referring to dollars. Thus MN $100.00 or $100.00 MN is100 pesos while $100.00 USD is one hundred dollars.

I recommend paying in cash instead of by credit card. More than one person has had charges added to his bill after leaving TJ. If you run out of cash, use an ATM machine. I use a credit card only as a last resort.

ATM Machines
There are ATM machines on the US side of the border that you can use just before crossing. There are several banks on the east side of the freeway that have ATMs, and there is an ATM kiosk on the west side of the freeway across from McDonalds on Camino de la Plaza and one in the Duty Free shop just before you cross the border.

I’ve had good luck using an ATM machine (cajera automatica) while in TJ. However, be careful. As in the US, the bad guys know this is a good place to hunt for prey. I recommended always getting a receipt, as that way you know the transaction is finished. (There is a scam in TJ and elsewhere of getting money out of somebody’s account because they failed to finalize an ATM transaction.)

I’ve used the ATM in the Caliente gambling hall near the Pueblo Amigo Hotel without problems, although it only gives pesos. (There’s also an ATM in the Calientes by the pharmacies near the border.) My favorite ATM is located in the lobby of the Rio Rito Hotel on the east side of Revolución between 4th and 5th. I’ve also used the in the AM PM located at 7th and Revolución. . These ATMs dispense money in both pesos and dollars. (Although they are sometimes out of dollars.) There are, of course, many other ATMs in Tijuana. For pesos I like the ATM in San Bourns at 8th and Revolución.

Don’t ever let somebody help you with an ATM. That goes triple for letting somebody see your PIN number. (Your risk of getting mugged increases dramatically if somebody knows your PIN number.) A scam starts with the bad guys breaking an ATM, perhaps by jamming something in the slot so a card won’t fully enter. Or they break the magnetic strip reader. They then offer to help you. In the process they observe your PIN number. After trying to help you they inform you they can’t get the ATM to work either. The trick is they switch ATM cards on you. (Maybe the just take off running with your card.) Now have both your card and PIN number and drain your account.

CASUAL TOURIST’S GUIDE TO TIJUANA: Crossing the Border

Crossing the Border on Foot
Just before crossing into Mexico look for the arch in downtown Tijuana. It is a landmark that is easy to find, especially when you are in the areas most frequented by tourists. I’ll use it a reference point later in this guide. (It’s about a mile walk from the border to the Arch.)

As I said above, you cross into Mexico on the west side of the freeway and return to the United States on the east side of the freeway. (I-805 and I-5 merge just before the Mexican border.) Either way one must cross the freeway when visiting TJ on foot.

TJ is entered on the west side of the freeway. To go to TJ turn south onto Camino de la Plaza and follow the road past the duty free shops. It dead-ends in a cul-de-sac where you can drop off passengers.

If you parked on the east side of the freeway then you have to cross the freeway before entering Mexico. There are two ways of crossing the freeway. One is to use the spiral ramp located near where people exit US Customs. The other is to walk over the bridge on Camino de la Plaza, opposite the Gateway Motel parking lot.

There is never a wait to cross into Mexico; crossing into the US is another story. (Expect to wait 20 minutes on foot and 2 hours by car—depending greatly on the time of day.) The lines are longest (to enter the US) in the early morning as many people who work in the US live in TJ. The next longest crossing time is around 5:00 pm when people working in TJ who live in the US cross. During the day expect lines of 20 minutes or more. After 6:30 to 7:00 pm the lines are usually much shorter—a wait of 5 minutes or less is common in the evening hours. (Which is why when I go to TJ during the day I stay and have dinner before returning to the US.) During the weekend the crossing times are longer, especially for cars. Late Sunday night and early Monday morning are often the worst. A weekend wait of 4 hours to cross by car is common. (Which is by I recommend leaving your car in a US parking lot unless you are planning on traveling on to someplace like Rosarito or Ensanda.)

When crossing by foot, there are a couple of ways to beat the long lines. When returning to the US often you will find people renting bikes for $5.00 to $7.00. Since there is a separate line for bikes sometimes this is a way to cross quickly. At times they limit the bikes so that only 10 bikes can cross per 100 pedestrians. When this happens it may take longer using a bike than crossing by foot.

Another way to cross quickly is by taking the bus. There is a special line for bus passengers. The MexiCoach station is located on the west side of Revolución between 6th and 7th. For $2.50 you can ride the bus to the border. The buses run until 9:00 pm and run about every 20 minutes during the busiest crossing times. If you are standing in the pedestrian line you can sometimes board a bus that is waiting to reach the gate. You can also re-board the bus after clearing customs and it will take you to the Border Station Parking lot, on Camino de la Plaza west of I-5.

The best way, of course, is the have a Sentri pass. However, long before you can obtain a Sentri pass you will cease being a “newbie” so I won’t go into more details about them.

Entering Mexico
You reach the Mexican entry port by walking past the Duty Free shops on Caminos Ways. As you enter Mexico you are actually walking East-Southeast—the curve of the roads and coastline make directions deceiving. To enter Mexico you pass through two turnstiles. (Note the spiral ramp just before the first turnstile. This is one of the places you can cross the freeway on foot.) After passing through the first turnstile you proceed along the walkway (or mall—call it what you want) past the Mexican Customs and Tourist Information booth. You exit this mall through either of two turnstiles. I’ll call one the Yellow Cab Turnstile and the other the Pharmacy Turnstile. If you go straight you will pass through the Yellow Cab Turnstile and enter the parking lot of the Yellow Cab Company. If you turn right in about the middle of the mall, where you see the money exchange booth, you will pass through the Pharmacy Turnstile that brings you to a street containing a lot of pharmacies.

As you exit the Pharmacy Turnstile if you go straight ahead you will be in the crosswalk headed down the street named Jose La Larroque. If you turn left you will be on the street named De La Amistad. (McDonalds and Calientes Sports Betting are located on De La Amistad.)

The first pharmacy you see is Farmacia Milenio. Just around the corner to the right (on the street name Jose La Larroque) is a little store called Mini Market Everything. You can buy snacks, phone cards, etc. there. On the left headed towards McDonalds (on the street named De La Amistad) you will see Farmacia Mileno and other pharmacies, such as Medicine Company and Drug Depot. McDonalds is next to Farmacia Milenio. Across the street from McDonalds is Calientes Sports Betting. (There are several Calientes in Tijuana.) This Calientes is one of the places where many Americans frequently meet others when crossing the boarder.

If you want to walk to downtown Tijuana then a little past McDonalds you will turn right and walk down the plaza. There are signs to help you. Before long you will reach a ramp that crosses the Tijuana River (which will probably be dry). Ultimately you will come to the Arch at First and Revolución in downtown Tijuana. (It’s a fairly safe walk during the day—but not advisable at night.)

You will see Yellow Cabs in front of McDonalds. You can also (usually) find orange and white Taxi Libres past McDonalds on De La Amistad. There are more yellow cabs than Taxi Libres in Tijana; finding a taxi libre often involves waiting.

If after entering Mexico through the Pharmacy Turnstile if you turn left after walking past Calientes you will come to the Yellow Cab parking lot. This is where you would have entered Mexico if you used what I call the Yellow Cab Turnstile. Before you reach the Yellow Cab parking lot you will see a ramp that allows you to cross the freeway. You will also find a convenient place to change money. You can also buy phone cards at the “Cambio” (money exchange booth) near the Yellow Cab parking lot.

CASUAL TOURIST’S GUIDE TO TIJUANA: TJ Destinations

Where to Go in Tijuana
Tijuana is a collection of neighborhoods. Each has its own street grid, with diagonal streets and winding roads connecting the various neighborhoods. Many neighborhoods are built on the contour of a hill, and finding you way around gets confusing at times. If it is a commercial area it is probably called a Zona (Zone) while a residential area will probably be called a Colonia (colony.) There are several common destinations for TJ tourists, discussed below.

Downtown Tijuana
Downtown TJ is called the Zona Central or the Centro. The heart of downtown Tijuana—at least for tourists—is a five block strip along Avenida Revolución (Revolution Avenue). Revolución is really the heart of the tourist district—and the only place many tourists ever visit as it has most of the things that tourists usually want. Streets crossing Revolución have both numbers and names, with the numbers prominently displayed on the street corners. (When one strays off Revolución one sees the street names are prominently displayed and one has to look for the fine print to find the street number.) If you were at the Tenth and Revolución walking towards the Arch then you would be headed north. You actually go northeast to reach the border. If when you get to the Arch (First Street or Articulo 123) you turned right and passed under the Arch then you would be headed back to the border. The walkway that leads you to the border is called Articulo 123. (But don’t walk back to the border at night.)

If standing at Tenth and Revolución you walk towards the Arch you would be headed north. These are the east-west streets in the main downtown area:

10th = Juan Sabara
9th = Zaragoza
8th = Hidalgo
7th = Galena
6th = Flores Magon
5th = Emailano Zapata
4th = Diaz Miron
3rd = Carrilo Puerto
2nd = Juarez (which take cars to the US)
Arch = Articulo 123 or First Street (which takes pedestrians to the US)
Calle Coahuila
Baja California

Revolución runs in a north-south direction. These are the other north-south streets that run parallel to Revolución, starting with Negrete, which is closest to the border:

Negrete
Madero
A = Revolución (main tourist street)
B = Constitución (main street for the locals)
C = Niños Heroes (not to be confused with Paseo de los Heroes in the Zona Rio)
D = Martinez

Some north-south streets also have letters; just the east-west streets have numbers. The letters, however, are not as prominently displayed as the number are on Revolución.

Constitución is the major downtown commercial street for people living in Tijuana. Revolución is the major tourist street in the downtown area.

Downtown Tijuana is filled with shops, restaurants, d things of interest to most tourists. I’ve spent many enjoyable hours there.

Plaza Pueblo Amigo
This is the plaza that contains the Pueblo Amigo Hotel. (Which is a nice place to stay.) There are some shopping, gambling, and restaurants in the area. All of which probably account for the popularity of the Pueblo Amigo Hotel. In addition, the rooms are excellent, the food is good, and the “seedier side of life” is not overtly visible.

Zona Rio (River Zone)
The Zona Rio (and the nearby residential area of Colonia Libertad) are sort of like La Jolla in San Diego—the very best the city offers. This area contains the Tijuana Cultural Center (Centro Cultural) and a large shopping mall called the Plaza Rio. The major street is Paseo de los Heroes, which is a boulevard with a meridian strip containing grass and trees. Paseo de los Heroes also contains many traffic circles and statues. Most of the upscale hotels and restaurants in Tijuana are located in the Zona Rio.

CASUAL TOURIST’S GUIDE TO TIJUANA: TJ Attractions

Tijuana Museums and Galleries

Centro Cultural Tijuana CECUT
Paseo de los Héroes and Mina, Zona Río
Ph. (01152-664) 687-9600 Fax (01152-664) 687-9690 and 91
Mo - Fr 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Entrance free

Casa de la Cultura de Playas
Ave. del Agua No. 777, sección Jardines, Playas de Tijuana
Ph./Fax (01152-664) 630-1825 (01152-664) 630-9714
Mo - Fr 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Entrance free

Casa de la Cultura de Tijuana
Paris and Lisboa No. 5, Col. Altamira, Zona Centro
Ph./Fax (01152-664) 687-2604
Mo - Sa 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Entrance free

El Lugar del Nopal
Callejón 5 de Mayo No. 1328, Zona Centro
Ph. (01152-664) 685-1264
Entrance free

Galería de Arte de la Ciudad
2nd. St. and Constitución
Ph. (01152-664) 687-9600 Fax (01152-664) 687-9690 and 91
Mo - Fr 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Entrance free

Galería Fox Baja
Kilómetro 32.5 carretera Libre Tijuana – Ensenada
Ph. (01152-664) 614-9444 Fax (01152-664) 614-9445
Summer time: Th – Mo 10 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Th – Su 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Cost: adults $12 dlls., children and seniors: $9 dlls.

Instituto de Cultura de Baja California
Avenida Centenario No. 10151, Zona Río
Ph./Fax (01152-664) 683-5922
Mo - Fr 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Entrance free

Wax Museum
Calle 1a. and Madero, Zona Centro
Ph. (01152-664) 688-2478
Mo - Su 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Entrance: $15 pesos

Californias Museum
Paseo de los Héroes and Mina, Zona Río
Ph. (01152-664) 687-9600 Fax (01152-664) 687-9690 and 91
Tu.- Fr 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Su 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Entrance: $20 pesos

Sala de Ciencia del Cecut
Paseo de los Héroes and Mina, Zona Río
Ph. (01152-664) 687-9600 Fax (01152-664) 687-9690 and 91
Tu. - Fr 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sa - Su 12 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Entrance: $12 pesos

Foreign Club Museum
Pasaje Constitución 720-A
Ave. Revolución and Constitución, between 3rd and 4th St.
Ph. (01152-664) 649-5445
Entrance: $ .50 dlls.
Mo – Su 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.


Tijuana Attractions

Tijuana Cultural Center
Paseo de los Héroes y Mina, Zona Río
Ph. (01152-664) 687-9600 Fax (01152-664) 687-9636
Tu – Su 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Entrance $ 20 pesos
Here you will find temporary and permanent exhibitions, cultural events, omnimax theater, galleries,

Bull fights
Ave. Santa María No. 21, Col. Gabilondo
Ph. (01152-664) 686-1219 Fax (01152-664) 686-1510
One of Mexico’s biggest traditions, season from May through September

Hipódromo Caliente
Blvd. Agua Caliente and Tapachula No. 12027, Col. Hipódromo
Ph. (01152-664) 681-7811 Fax (01152-664) 633-7368
Venue for greyhound’s best races and betting’s.

Mundo Divertido
Vía Rápida Poniente #15035
Ph. (01152-664) 634-3213 Fax (01152-664) 634-3214
Mo - Fr 12 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., Sa - Su 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Tickets: $ 6 pesos.
Family oriented park. With a small golf course, roller coaster, go-karts, boats, and much more.

Wax Museum
Calle 1a. No. 8281, Zona Centro
Ph.(01152-664) 688-2478 Fax (01152-664) 634-2478
Mo - Su 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Entrance: $1.60 dlls.
Located in down town Tijuana, it’s the second wax museum created in Latin America, with over 77 historical artists, movie stars and some other celebrities.

Parque Estatal Morelos
Blvd. Insurgentes No. 16000
Ph./Fax (01152-664) 625-2469 and 70
Tu - Su 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Entrance: $5 pesos
Parque Morelos is considered one of the biggest ecological reservations in Tijuana, with green areas, a lake, botanical gardens and a concert theater for 40,000 people.

Parque Teniente Guerrero
Calle 3ra. And 5 de Mayo
Recreation and family park, with library, playground and much more.

Bronzart
Blvd. Agua Azul No. 7004, Fracc. Industrial Agua Azul
Ph./Fax (01152-664) 684-6533
Mo – Fr 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Guided tours
Free entrance
Here you can appreciate the process of bronze sculptures, you can also visit the gallery and the gift shop

Foxploration
Kilómetro 32.5 carretera Libre Tijuana – Ensenada
Ph. (01152-664) 614-9444 Fax (01152-664) 614-9445
Wednesday thru Sunday 10 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Entrance: adults $12 dlls. children: $10 dlls.
Located 30 minutes South Tijuana, in Rosarito Beaches, you will get to see
original sets from the Titanic film and some other famous movies.

Tepoznieves
Ph. (01152-664) 634- 6532
Blvd. Sanchez Taboada, No. 4002 suite 14 and 15 Zona Rio
Mo – Th 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. Fr – Su 8 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Tepoznieves is a very unique ice cream store, here you will find over
100 natural flavors such as: rose petals, tequila, pina colada and much more

L. A. CETTO winery
Ave. Cañón Johnson No. 2108, Col. Hidalgo
Ph. (01152-664) 685-3031 Fax (01152-664) 685-4450
Guided tours: Mo - Fr 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Sa 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Entrance: $ 2 dlls. Wine tasting: $1 dlls.
V, MC
Guided tours to see the process of the wine with a boutique were you can find a variety of products from L.A. CETTO yinenards.

Cervecería Tijuana
Blvd. Fundadores No. 2951, Col. Juárez
Ph. (01152-664) 638-8662 Fax (01152-664) 684-8287
Guided Tours: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. (previous appointment)
Make a unique tour and get to know the full process of beer and taste this product in it’s local European style bar.


CASUAL TOURIST’S GUIDE TO TIJUANA: Taxis

Using a Taxi
Wherever you decide to go in Tijuana you will probably do so by Taxi. Of course, you can walk, use a bus, or take a route taxi (collectivo), but most hobbyists take a taxi. There are two types of taxis: metered and unmetered.

For years the only taxis available were unmetered. The Yellow Cabs, Blue and White Cabs, and all their kin are unmetered. Usually they are full sized American cars like a Crown Victoria. From the border it should cost you $5.00 to go downtown, to the bars in the Zona Norte, to the Plaza Rio, or to the Plaza Pueblo Amigo. Tipping cab drivers is not customary among Mexicans. Cab drivers the world over often try to overcharge. I recommend asking, “Will you take me to [insert destination] for $5.00? If the cab driver asks for more then haggle or find another cab. I should also note that if you ask a hotel or restaurant to call a cab then you can expect to pay more. The cab drivers often have to pay a fee to whoever calls them. Returning from the Zona Rio often costs more than getting there; probably because it is harder to find a taxi in the Zona Rio that it is at the border.

The metered taxis are usually orange and white Nissan Sentras and are called a taxi libre. There are more yellow cabs, and you probably will have to wait and hunt around for a taxi libre. Be sure the meter on a taxi libre has been reset. The meter should show about 5 to 7 pesos, depending on the time of day, when you enter the cab. (That’s around fifty cents.) It normally costs between two and three dollars in a taxi libre to reach any of the destinations that cost $5.00 in a yellow cab. (If you want to go sight seeing either bargain for an hourly rate with a yellow cab driver or take a taxi libre.)

Every yellow cab driver I’ve encountered spoke some English. (The same is true of the MexiCoach bus drivers and station attendants.) In general, taxi libre drivers have a more limit command of the English language. Those who feel uncomfortable communicating in Spanish might be happier using a yellow cab than a taxi libre.

There are many scams cab drivers attempt. The first is overcharging. It costs $5.00 to go from the border to Revoluciion, and the same to return to the border. (If you have a hotel or a restaurant call a cab you will probably end up paying seven. The prices go up if there aren’t other taxis within easy walking distance.) The second is claiming they can’t make change. (See why I recommend carrying plenty of ones and fives.) Taxi libres claim their meter isn’t working and try to charge yellow cab prices. (Tell the guy to turn on his meter or you will report him.)


CASUAL TOURIST’S GUIDE TO TIJUANA: Driving in Tijuana

Insurance
If you do drive in Mexico be sure you have Mexican auto insurance. (You can buy it just after you cross into Mexico or at several of the interstates exits just before crossing the border. You can also buy it west of I-5 on Camino de la Plaza.) Remember, US insurance is not valid in Mexico. Also, Mexico has different laws than the US, and if you get in an auto accident you likely will face criminal charges as well as have to pay for the damage you caused. (Expect the local to win.) You will e taken before a judge who will determine who is at fault before you can leave. Without Mexican auto insurance you could be detained and required to post bond before you are released and allowed to return to the US. When buying Mexican auto insurance I also recommend buying legal coverage so you will have an attorney to represent you in case you are in an accident.

Mexican Traffic Laws
Remember that Mexican law requires the use of seat belts and prohibits using a cell phone while driving. Don’t make a right turn on a red light. (Don’t assume that just because the locals can get away with breaking traffice laws that you can too.) Drive cautiously and obey all traffic laws. Expect Mexican drivers to do the unexpected, and drive in a manner that would earn them a ticket for reckless driving in the US. Finally, lock your valuables in the trunk of your car. I recommend against hiding a spare key on the car. Use a club even if you have an alarm. (You want visual deterrence.)

Directions to Avenida Revolución
While I recommend leaving you car in the US, I’m going to include for driving to Avenida Revolución in downtown Tijuana. (perhaps the most common destination in Tijuana. To reach Revolución:

[1] Cross the border. Get in the left-most lane.
[2] You will see the signs "Av Revolución " then "Centro" over your lane.
[3] Your lane makes a sweeping left-circle turn.
[4] At the end of the turn, your mileage from the border is 0.9. You are now on 3rd Ave. Stay in the right lanes.
[5] Pass 4 signals. The 4th signal is on Revolución. Mileage from the border 1.4.

You will find limited street parking. Your best bet is to use one of many parking lots in the downtown area close to your destination. They are easy to spot.

It is only a 1.7 mile trip. The only trick is to get in the correct lanes. This applies most when you cross the border. Because you have to get to the left-most lane after the border, try to be on the left side of I-5/805 before approaching the border. It is a BIG hassle to fight against jammed traffic to move all the way from right lanes to the left-most lane after crossing the border.

CASUAL TOURIST’S GUIDE TO TIJUANA: Returning to the US

Returning by Cab
If, as I advise, you left your car in the US, you have your choice of walking or taking a cab or bus back to the border. The fee in a yellow cab (or any other cab without a meter) is $5.00 from the downtown, Zona Publo Amigo. or Zona Rio to the border. (Sometimes I have to pay $7.00 to the border from the far reaches of the Zona Rio.) When asking a cab driver to take you to the broader tell him to take you to “la lina sentri.” There are several places cabs drivers drop off passengers; and often they drop them off where they have to cross the freeway to reach to the line that reenters the US. The lina sentri takes longer for cab drivers to reach, but if that is where you exit a cab you won’t have to cross a road filled with traffic. The rate is the same to go “la lina sentri” instead of the standard drop off point.

Returning by Bus
If the line is long (as is usually the case in the middle of the day and when workers cross) you might consider taking the bus. The MexiCoach bus station is at the back of a tourist souvenir arcade located on Revolución between 6th and 7th street on the west side of the Revolución. There is a large sign on top of the building that says Bus. The fee is $2.50 and during peak hours the buses run about every 20 minutes. The nice part is there is a separate line at customs for bus passengers. You get off the bus and go straight to a customs agent with hardly any delay. Also, you are able to sit in the station or on the bus while others are standing in line (which is very nice on a hot day). If you want you can continue on the bus to one of the parking lots on the west side of I-5. After you clear customs look for a door on your left. Exit through the door and wait for the bus; it will take you to the Border Station parking lot west of I-5 on Camino de la Plaza.

Another place to cross is at Otay Mesa instead of San Ysidro. Otay can be a good alternative, but you have to remember you are talking about at a minimum of a thirty-forty-five minute trip up there and then back to the I-805 or I-5, in addition to the wait time once you get in line at Otay Mesa. On Sunday or for that matter anytime the line is over an hour wait, if you are walking and the line is over a hour wait, you might consider walking to Hotel Pueblo Amigo and having the Caliente bus take you for free through the Otay crossing. The bus will meet you on the U.S. side and take you back to San Ysidro. Check at the Caliente sports book for their schedule. Place a bet in case they ask you if you are a gambler.

Returning by Car
If you took your car to downtown Tijuana the easiest way to reach the border is by following the signs on Juarez (2nd Street). It is a one-way street and the signs are adequate for you to find your way to the border. The car wait always seems long. From the Zona Rio area, Paseo de los Hereos will take you to the border.

Walking to the Border
If you are going to walk home then find the Arch at First and Revolución and follow Articulo 123 back to the border. (First Street is called Articulo 123.) You need to follow this diagonal pathway (headed northeast) back to the border. There are signs to guide you. I strongly recommend against walking back to the border, especially at night or if you have been drinking.

Best Times to Cross
I’ve often found that after about 6:00-6:30 pm the wait is short. After 7:00-7:30 pm it is very short, five minutes on less. (Sundays are a different story as Sunday evening is one of the worst times of all to cross.) The reason I started eating in the upscale restaurants in Tijuana is to avoid waiting in a long line during workers hours. (More about some really good restaurants elsewhere.)

The shortest wait for motorist, at least motorists who are night owls, is between about 1:00 am and 3:00 am, after most people are in bed and before the early morning commuter start crossing. During the day, the lines are shorest between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm.

Tips on what to do if the line is long
If you get to the border and find there is a long line you may still find you can take the bus. Start knocking on the doors of the buses waiting to cross. I’ve often found that I can still pay the driver $2.50 and board the bus. It sure beats standing in line, especially on a hot day.

When waiting in line during busy days you will often see people renting bicycles for $5.00 to $7.00. Like buses, bikes have their own line. However, renting a bike may or may not be a good idea. Some days the inspectors will only process ten bikes per 100 pedestrians. On those days bicyclists spend more time in line than pedestrians.

Bringing Medication into the US
One of the questions frequently asked is can I buy medicine in TJ and bring it back to the US. My personal experience is that you can without a prescription—but I’m not talking about things like diabetic meds, not narcotics, painkillers, or something an addict would find interesting. It’s best to have a prescription from a US doctor or a Mexican doctor for drugs not approved by the FDA. Second best is a prescription from a Mexican doctor. Many pharmacies can refer you to Mexican doctors who speak English and are “tourist friendly”. Without a prescription my personal experience is that you will get a lecture but still be allowed to enter the US with meds for personal use. Limit yourself to a sixty day supply.

ID Needed to Enter the US
In theory you need to prove both your identity and right to live in the US. A passport, of course, does both. A driver’s license (or similar ID) only proves your identity. In theory you should have a copy of your birth certificate or other document proving your right to live in the US with you as well as something like a driver’s license that proves your identity. I say in theory as only rarely have I heard of an inspector asking for more than a driver’s license or a California ID card. Even the people who only had a driver’s license were allowed to return to the US with nothing more than a lecture about bringing a copy of their birth certificate next time. (If you lose your ID in Mexico it is usually possible to return to the US without too much headache. Especially if you are a middle aged WASP.) I’m a WASP and I’ve never had a problem; however, I’ve learned it isn’t a perfect world. So if I were Hispanic and spoke English with an accent I would definitely carry a passport (or other adequate documentation) with me.

[Chino1]

Very good information. May I add just a little bit more:

return buses to the border stop running at midnight.

I would carry passport or copy of passport beside DL. in different wallet. just in case you lose one of your wallet.

I would carry alot of one dollar bills wrapped with five dollar bill in one my wallet for emergency give away money and hide spending money in special pocket in the jacket only you can pull it out. Since I have done this I never loss money to the girl in the room, pocket picker.

That is one reason I always wear sport jacket beside make me look good and rarely anybody want to steal jacket unless you forget it.

[JDTJ]

Best ATM's on Revo...

HSBC 2nd and Revo: Pesos only, but well lighted and safe. No reports of scams.

AM/PM 7th/8th and Revo: Pesos and dollars, inside AM/PM. Usually out of dollars by thursday. Safest of the ATM's.

8th and Revo: in front of Las Pulgas: Pesos and dollars. My favorite machine when I need dollars as most people don't know about it. Usually has dollars on the weekend. No reports of scams.


JD

[Chiquito]

I like the ATM's that in inside the Sanborn's as well (like Revo & 8th). Very safe being inside. Only pesos but gives all small bills of 50 and 100 pesos. Sometimes it's hard to get places to change larger bills.

There is another Giuseppis in Playas as well. Across the street from Comercial Mexicana Plaza.

[richsinc]

a few comments on the detailed info and comments;
Thank you, first.
Taxi Libre is the way to go, generally honest but I have had a couple try to charge more; best to establish price first, especially at night or if you had a few drinks; during the day the meters seem to work fine.
Richard

[richsinc]

Oh forgot that if you have to use an ATM, make sure that someone you trust goes with you to watch your back.
A common scam is that while you are deciphering the Espanol and trying to get your card to work, someone will try to help you; take your card and replace it with a similarly colored card and by the time the machine rejects it and you realize that its a phoney card, he is long gone..........
Richard

[TJDave]

Thanks for all the excellent info Daniel...

I try to always carry both Pesos & Dollars... plus after being caught several times with just large bills, I always try to have small bills on me... change is a big deal in TJ...NOBODY ever seems to have any :x

I have been caught a few times with dollars only, & those are the times I inevitably find the vendor that only gives the 10:1 exchange rate, so it helps to have both if you can plan ahead.