Everyone has an opinion on Mexico.
Some suppose it is a phenomenal nation to trip in, nearly wherever, whether or not it is a timeless colonial city or a world-class seashore vacation spot.
On the flip aspect, many view Mexico by the lens of mainstream information — and that is the place many are lacking out on some actually astonishing locations which might be misunderstood.
Here at Travel Off Path, we perceive the significance of travel advisories and crime statistics, whereas additionally trusting our personal boots-on-the-ground expertise.
One such metropolis has been designated “dangerous” for years, however it’s really one of the crucial visited locations in Mexico, because it’s brimming with vibrant tradition, stunning luxurious, unbelievable delicacies, some would say “wild” nightlife, and a beautiful shoreline that’s in some way under-hyped.
As a frequent customer myself, this misbranded metropolis is my go-to for dipping my toes into digital nomad waters because it’s reasonably priced, enjoyable, welcoming — and sure, it even feels safer than quite a few U.S. cities.
Yes, Tijuana Is Well Worth Calling Home
Recently highlighted as one among Mexico’s unsung digital nomad locations, do not simply take it from me — Tijuana is on the up-and-up for distant employees.
Yes, I’ve visited Tijuana tons of of instances, provided that my handle is nearer to the border than downtown San Diego.
As such, I’ve seen the inflow of laptops at cafes — in addition to extra cafes opening up store. If I had written this text years in the past, it would not have felt truthful.
In truth, I guess feedback can be flooded with one thing alongside the strains of “if you show your laptop in Tijuana, you’ll end up buying it back at the swap meet mañana!”.
My private favourite place to work is Jose Cafe, the place espresso is simply as sturdy because the wifi sign on the ritzier aspect of the town, however downtown is a superb choice too, because it’s walkable and crammed with cafes and stylish bars.
Downtown (generally often called Revolucion) has undergone an enormous redevelopment and continues to rework.
No matter if you’d like a $20 therapeutic massage at Serenity Spa (my month-to-month “splurge”), an inexpensive cerveza at El Toro’s rooftop, or the ‘authentic Caesar Salad’ that may knock your socks off, you’ll by no means really feel misplaced or unsafe exploring like this metropolis has been represented.
Even within the wee hours of the evening, you may nonetheless bar-hop safely alongside the newly constructed promenade. Just know, a number of blocks away, as an instance, Amsterdam vibes begin to reveal the underbelly of Tijuana’s darker aspect that actually would not outline the entire metropolis.
Be Like Me: Enjoy The Best Of Both Worlds 🇲🇽🇺🇸
So-called “border towns” have a nasty rap. But Tijuana is a bustling metropolis that simply occurs to be positioned on the border.
Sure, at first look, when crossing the Mexico aspect, it’s possible you’ll encounter a number of beggars, questionable farmacias, and unpleasant dust roads, however when you can look previous that, you will discover a thrilling city playground you want you’d found sooner simply previous the eyesores.
Living so near Tijuana has been a blessing — it appears like I can journey the world in quarter-hour.
As you certainly know, “California” and “cheap” do not belong in the identical sentence. That’s the place Tijuana comes into play, being a stone’s throw from San Diego.
You can get pleasure from one of the best of each worlds. Visit SoCal’s famend seashores and even have an annual membership on the world-famous San Diego Zoo, all whereas making your base in “TJ” (as locals say) to save lots of on lease.
According to Expatistan, TJ lease at the moment averages $1,124 in ritzy neighborhoods, and $566 elsewhere.
For what it is value, I pay $1,950 within the San Diego ‘burbs (are you able to hear me crying?).
Should you wish to double dip, listed below are a few hacks to make crossing the ‘most visited border’ on the planet a breeze:
1) Apply for a SENTRI move:
- Gives entry to unique quick lanes when re-entering the U.S. from Mexico
- Costs about $120 and lasts 5 years
2) Make use of the CBX:
- Walk straight from Tijuana’s airport (TIJ) to the U.S. through a non-public skybridge (air journey solely)
- Tickets sometimes run $25 – $45
Tijuana’s Beach Scene Is Understated
Sure, Baja could come to thoughts if you’re dreaming of Mexico’s excellent seashores, however Tijuana? Doubtful.
One purpose TJ hasn’t change into a seashore vacation spot is the town’s aforementioned security issues and the truth that swimming right here is not one of the best concept until your concept of enjoyable is wading in sewage run-off.
Yeah… me neither…
But ‘The Playas’ surroundings is not any much less lovely than close by San Diego, or additional alongside the Baja coast, Rosarito. Best of all, the federal government has lastly committed to upgrading its water move infrastructure to discourage sewage spewage.
Will this be an in a single day success? No — however it’s a much-needed begin.
Until that day comes, you may nonetheless get pleasure from ample seashore days with fixed sunshine, quite a few bars and eating places serving contemporary seafood, and an embracing expat neighborhood, the place it is unlikely you will ever must brush up in your Spanish abilities.
If you do insist on going for a swim with out crossing into San Diego, lovely Rosarito offers one of the best odds.
It’s a straightforward Uber experience down the coast and widespread amongst surfers and households on trip. Just test with the lifeguards first.
The Travel Off Path Advantage: Your Travel Toolkit
Subscribe To Our Latest Posts
Enter your e-mail handle to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s newest breaking journey information, straight to your inbox.
