These establishments will overcharge immensely and give the driver a commission. Violent crime is possible as well. This goes for tap water and ice cubes. 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! Kidnapping is a risk in Mexico, and Baja California is not exempt. However, its not a safe area. Exploring LA on Foot: How to Stay Alive While Strolling the City of Angels! In Tijuana, pickpockets are very active. If youre just planning on spending a day or two in the city, head back, and you can have a great time. In front of the Cecut, or cultural center in Tijuana, a confused American tourist wondered whether it was safe to take out his camera and take pictures. You will need to catch the blue line from any station traveling South toward San Ysidro. Its best to eat from established restaurants with good reviews. 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. Additionally, the Hong Kong Gentlemens Club is probably the most friendly and conservative for visitors, and it also has a hotel attached (Hotel Cascadas). Not only could an altercation in a bar turn violent quickly, but you could end up in a Mexican jail. The state of Quintana Roo and its Riviera Maya is the most popular tourist zone in Mexico. There are also money exchanges at the station, and Id advise getting some money exchanged here before you cross. The most dangerous place to drive your car in Tijuana is near Avenida Revolucion and Avenida Constitucion and Second and Third Streets. ). And finally, you might get pulled over by a corrupt officer who will insist you pay a fine to them. Ultimately, its up to each individual to weigh the risks and make an informed decision about whether or not to visit the city. 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. In the alert from July 4, the U.S. Consulate General in Tijuana said there was "potential for confrontations between criminal . Inform a family member or friend that you are traveling to Baja California, and update them about your movements. SAN DIEGO (AP) President Joe Biden scrapped expedited asylum screenings during his first month in office as part of a gutting of Trump administration border polices that included building a . October 6, 2020: View of poor area of Tijuana Mexico with buildings on hill and traffic in foreground/Manuela Durson/Shutterstock. However, food preparation laws are slack here than in America. It located outside Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico, near the U.S.-Mexico border. While the cartels primary income source is not robbing tourists, thats not to say it never happens. However, food preparation laws are slack here than in America. | Safety Concerns. Theres also the aquarium and much more to see. If you go out for a drink in a touristy club, be extra vigilant about your drink so it does not get spiked. The city has been plagued by drug cartels, gang violence, and human trafficking, leading to a rise in homicides and other violent crimes. The cultural center announced it would be . If youre a woman then take extra care about what you drink (they can spike the drinks) and dont go outside alone to smoke or just go on walks. Tijuana is also perfect for day trips from San Diego. And two, you dont know who might be working with the police. You can arrive at the border by either car, train, or bus. So be sure to avoid sketchy areas and always be aware of your surroundings. The State Department urges those who do travel to remain on main . The first is the driving behavior of other motorists. In 2021, Tijuana has been ranked number one for murders against women. It truly is more trouble than its worth. At some point in 2022, six homicides per day were recorded in the city. 10 reviews. . So in the 1920s Tijuana exploded as a getaway for Americans looking to indulge in both drinking and gambling during prohibition times. Neighborhoods like Zona Rio and Playas de Tijuana are known to be some of the safest areas. See this list of some of the. If you act like an imbecile in Tijuana, get drunk and obnoxious, you may come home in a body bag. With that said, dont argue with locals. Really, Tijuana was just an agriculture mud-hole. Is Afghanistan Safe in 2023? 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. We all get it. And even if youre going to party it up in some of the crazier areas of the city, like Zona Norte, you should be okay if youre careful. 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. Stick to the touristy areas, travel in a group, and dont listen to strangers on the street, and you can have a wonderful trip. Often a so-called tour guide or the like will attempt to befriend you. If you have to walk over the bridge, cross with someone else. 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. Globe-Trotting Without the Worry: The Ultimate Guide to Healthcare for Expats Across the World! Mugging isnt as prevalent, and you must look out for it in the wrong neighborhoods outside touristy attractions. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. People will come up to you on the street and play the victim for a handout, a food vendor will try to short-change you, and even hotels will try to fleece you with extra fees. Its best to avoid Ensenadas red light district as well. 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. Tijuana really is the wild west. Unfortunately, its most known for its high crime rate. Tijuana is safe enough to roam around and explore but take more care if heading outside of the main tourist zones of. Avenida Revolucin is a pretty safe area, and its well-trafficked by local police officers. However, there is an increased risk of crime and kidnapping in Baja California, which is why the State Departmenthas released a Level 3 Reconsider Travel advisory for Baja California state. Watch out for drivers who are speeding or driving while drunk. Various illegal activities occur near the border, and you never know what youll bump into. While the rise in crime and violence in Tijuana is concerning, its important to remember that it is not the whole story. | Safety Concerns, per 100,000 people, many news outlets call Tijuana The Most Dangerous City in The World.. Dont have ice with drinks and only drink from factory-sealed bottles. Not all the taxis use their meters and can charge you a criminal price when you get to your destination. You will want to avoid the red light district Zona Norte (the North Zone) in Tijuana. The entire area is seedy, and bad things can go down quickly. Its a huge red-light district, and its the largest in North America. I do not represent World Nomads. Got tips, tricks & advice we can learn from? You should pay traffic fines on the officialMultas de Transito (Traffic Fines) government site. During the day, in the safe neighborhoods and places, nothing will happen. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Unless youre a Tijuana local, you probably shouldnt cross the border at night. Not much sight seeing going on in Tijuana. Some plastic surgeons may not have the proper licenses. 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. Top 27 Communication Apps For International Travel, 96% are Christians with most identifying as Catholic, October-November with temps of 46 to 91, Hamburgers or hotdogs at Telefnica gastro park, Fine dining Mexican Cuisine at Misin 19 in Zona Ro, Street tacos from Las Ahumaderas near Zona Ro, Zona Centro (while the touristy district is here, bad stuff still happens in this area. They sit at their stops until they have a full bus and then stop. I have just returned home in Los Angeles after walking across the border on Wednesday night. Learn some Spanish so you can communicate with locals. It is not recommended to travel alone to Tijuana due to the high levels of crime and violence. Yes. In January, the average temperature is 11.4 C. Americans have been traveling across the border for dental work for decades. With recent events transpiring between the United States and Mexico, Tijuana is not a spot you'd want to venture off to right now. Check theNational Hurricane Center for hurricane warnings. However, you should stick to the main roads and avoid hitchhikers. Just make sure you dont explore the city and get safe credible rides to any place. In 2019, 1.1 percent of Americans traveling internationally did so for health treatments, according to the National Travel and Tourism Office, although that figure only accounts for those who . SEATTLE . Stay in safe neighborhoods. The first is your run-of-the-mill pickpocket. Walking just a few blocks beyond these well-patrolled areas can land you in the wrong part of town. Enjoy your trip! Dont eat unwashed salad foods, theres a risk of E. Coli poisoning. The checkups arent held routinely though and often are overlooked when pimps bribe authorities. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide . The main reason for the astronomically high murder rate is the gang andcartel violencein the city. Do your best to avoid neighborhoods such as Reforma, Snchez Taboada, Camino Verde, and Mariano Matamoros. Violent crime is possible as well. The original wood bar that is still standing from the 1920s is the focal point of the restaurant with a vintage cash register surrounded by liquor bottles. withlovepaperandwine.com. View the San Diego blue line schedule and map here. If we link to any product, you should assume that we'll receive a commission when you buy it, at no extra cost to you. Happy travels! Rosarito is generally safe, but crime can still occur. Make sure to use trusted and accredited hotels/hostels. However, at night, it gets rather sketchy. 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. Wherever you stay, ask your hotel receptionist or Airbnb host about which areas are safe to visit. "It gets categorized and creates this chaos and panic, to go south of the border. In fact, due to corruption and drug violence, Mexico holds the top 5 positions on this list. The east side of the city is another area to avoid. San Ysidro Land Port of Entry, San Diego, CA. You're not guaranteed tomorrow, and, often times, you can buy an international plane ticket for less than a domestic one. This one neighborhood is more infamous than any other there. Menu Menu Location (855)-506-6188 Contact . Yes! For tourists, yes Tijuana is safe. You shouldnt drinktap water, and its best to buy bottled water or water filters to prevent food poisoning. At 7.7 times more than Detroit, the end of 2019 recorded 2,100 total murders in Tijuana. But if youre just visiting and stick to the touristy areas, you can have a great time while staying safe. Oddly enough, yes. As a tourist, you can avoid most crimes that will plague the average local. Mexico is considered a developing nation. Petty crime like pickpocketing and theft is prevalent even in touristy areas, particularly in crowds. Restaurants and food vendors typically serve purified or bottled water, and the ice from these places is safe. On this budget, you could live in Zona Rio, downtown, or Playas de Tijuana. Don't drink water from the tap here! Take the Plunge: 8 Affordable and Incredible Diving Destinations You Dont Want to Miss Out On! Click here to get an offer for travel insurance. I was in shock and called family and before I could think more police came and did the same thing making me cash advance my credit card. | Travel Tips & Safety Concerns, Is Albania Safe in 2023? The center of Ensenada is safe, as is the promenade on the water and its touristy beaches. You can still visit this restaurant. The 15 Best Hotels in Hawaii in 2023 | For All Budgets, The 15 Best Places to Visit in Hawaii in 2023, Is Hawaii Safe to Visit in 2023? If you travel to Tijuana, make sure to stay in heavily policed areas known for tourism. Not all the taxis use their meters and can charge you a criminal price when you get to your destination. How Dangerous is Scuba Diving. Many locals and visitors alike continue to enjoy the vibrant culture and beauty of the city without issue. Im not trying to lecture you, although Im just giving you information to make the right choice. See my site Policies Also, like Tijuana, Ensenada has a Zona de Tolerancia a tolerance zone where prostitution is legal. Tijuana prides itself on being an "anything goes" city but, despite its twin streaks of Catholic conservatism and machismo culture, Mexico, in toto, has got behind LGBTQ+ rights. In 2017, the murder rate per 100,000 people was 365. If prostitutes come to you, they often try to distract you by touching you before pickpocketing any valuables you have. Theres food from all regions of Mexico and some American fare since its so close to the border. As such, they weave in and out of traffic, and you may not see them in time if you are not accustomed to sharing the road with so many two-wheeled vehicles. Additionally, there will be taxis queuing at the end of the pathway as well. We may earn a commission when you click this link, at no extra cost to you. According to the UK Government, over 576,971 British nationals visited Mexico in 2017 with most visits being trouble-free. I would bypass Tijuana and drive further south about 30 minutes to a beach town called Puerto Nuevo. If youre staying in a hotel, make sure to get bottled water to drink and brush your teeth with. The biggest safety concern in Rosarito and other surrounding areas such as Tijuana, Mexicali and Tecate has been homicides. Tijuana is repeatedly cited as being the most dangerous city in Mexico and one of the most dangerous in the world. Not for the moment. The biggest threat in Tijuana is the drug cartel. However, all bets are off during the night when the most crime occurs, so you should strive to be indoors at your hotel or back in San Diego by the time the sun sets. Tijuana is known for the nightlife as it has a LOT of nightclubs and bars to go around. Tijuana continues to have problems with violent drug-related crimes and gang turf wars in poor neighborhoods. warns against picking up hitchhikers. Zona Norte, also known as Hong Kong District, is one of the most dangerous and highly trafficked tourist areas. Traveling to Tijuana and Rosarito, Baja California, poses a "serious risk," according to US officials. if you have to go somewhere after the sun goes down. However, you should keep your head low and not make Ubering obvious, as many taxi drivers hate Uber and think theyre taking business away from them. Many Americans travel to Tijuana for affordable medical and dental care. Lastly, if you travel to one of the infamous strip clubs or bars, make sure to get a taxi directly to the establishment door. Tijuana isn't just the dangerous border town that it's made out to be in the news. 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. I know why youre most likely going there. And with such a high rate of crime in 2021, citizens can expect very little change in 2022. In reality, the vendors in Tijuana arent held to code for cleanliness, so Id avoid these. Also, your car isnt safe in either parking locations along the border. Stratfor Worldview reports that just in 2017, over 35 million Americans visited Mexico. Tijuana was voted the most dangerous city for two years in a row. has released a Level 3 Reconsider Travel advisory for Baja California state. And if you walk in, you can simply walk back very easily. Various cartel groups and gangs often fight for turf, leading to shootings and deaths. They can stop you on the street and pat you down to find something to charge you a fine for. So, count your change, ignore people approaching you on the street, and look at hotel reviews before you book. Its not entirely clear who owns the bars in Zona Norte, but the cartel or gangs likely exercise strict control over the place. Yes, travelling alone in Mexico is safe. Bras, money belts or secret bag compartments will do. Be wary of attempts at credit-card fraud. One of the reasons the State Department increased Baja Californias advisory to a Level 3 warning was the arrest of a cartel leader, which led to increased violence between cartels and the police, according to the. Don't waste your hard-earned money. Staying Safe In Tijuana: What Tourists And Residents Need To Know. And it should go without saying, but never under any circumstances buy drugs in the city. | 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. In that moment of distraction, the thief will then grab your item or bag and run. The further away you get from the touristy area, the more dangerous it gets. 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. US dollars are accepted in Tijuana but not everywhere. Due to its positioning, it can be somewhat difficult to reach Tijuana overland from the other major Mexican cities, with Mexico City for example being a sizeable 2760km away.. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. Take only the cash you need for the day and leave all other essential items in your hotel safe no matter where you go in Tijuana. They may demand bribes for traffic violations whether or not you actually violated any law. History in agriculture, party-going, and food. Mexico usually allows Americans to stay for up to six months on an approved cost-free Visa. People often give their services without being asked and want to be paid for them. The only visitors who shouldnt come are solo female travelers, who would be better off taking some companions with them. The same goes for Ensenada. While driving in cities like Tijuana, watch out for dogs crossing the road. However, with a little bit of common sense and caution, most tourists experience no problems while visiting Tijuana. So, once the sun ducks below the horizon, you should be solidly inside your hotel. Dont go wandering around this neighborhood, because trouble will find you. Dental offices can be found on almost every street corner. However, bear in mind that it is illegal. 13 Tips to Get Rich as an Expat Read More , Copyright 2023 Where the Rooster Crows - Best & Safest Places to Visit & Live. 1 of 3 expats return home because of these things. Cartels and gangs may make illegal roadblocks, demanding money for the privilege of passing or outright robbing you. especially homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. It truly is more trouble than its worth. The people who approach you on the street often speak perfect English. After they got the money and let me go. Im sure you understand just how bad they are. The fact of the matter is, this happens and theres not much you can do about it. In Zona Norte, the ladies there are checked monthly. Make sure you use your phone in a reputable restaurant or store. In addition, you will notice more potholes and poorer road conditions than in San Diego, so drive slowly. Theyre there to prevent violent crime against tourists, not to help you. Yes, thats right, I said the food is international. Why does Tijuana have a party reputation? If you practice good safety, you should have a great time in the city. To get the best and safest tourist experience in Tijuana, stick to the tourist districts and consider the following travel-safe practices: . Tijuana is known for its nightlife, but drunks are frequent targets, especially walking alone. Taxi drivers may scam you in this city - especially if you hail one from the street. What should I do if I feel unsafe in Tijuana? Mexico is generally a poor country, and youll stick out like a sore thumb if youre carrying an expensive camera and wearing gold jewelry. In this article, Im going to go over some important notes to help you stay safe while in Tijuana. 7. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. Not always. According to theAustralian government, some kidnapping victims claim that police officers have been involved in their kidnappings. Even knowing the basics will get you quite far. Oddly enough, there are a few establishments there that are safer than others. Despite that, they dont usually cause trouble for tourists. Police arent helpful and can be extremely inappropriate. The Best Time to Visit Rocky Mountain National Park in 2023, Is Detroit Safe to Visit in 2023? (3 wild TJ stories!). Cartels also operate in Baja California. 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. Many doctors and staff speak English, and some have even . Not only is it illegal, but its dangerous. However, most of the time, its too much trouble for them, and they drop the matter entirely. The most common trouble Americans will face in Baja California is petty crime. Start Here Mexico Is Baja California Safe in 2023? This is what most day-trippers to Tijuana experience, and it should go without saying that Revolucion is not representative of Tijuana and certainly not of Mexico. wikivoyage.org. The Valle de Guadalupe (Guadalupe Valley) in Baja California features many wineries and restaurants. Did you know the striped painted donkey is called a Zonkey? After weighing his options, the wiry, 47-year-old accountant agreed, and the three drove to a nearby bank. Many Americans drive down from San Diego or other California cities and make a road trip to Baja California. After all, the city has been ranked as the most violent city in the world for multiple years running now. Finally, avoid wandering around near the border except for the official border crossings. If you take a taxi, negotiate a fare before you get in. 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. Road signs and markings may be missing or not well organized. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. 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. Before you close the book on TJ, you should understand that it can be visited safely if you pay attention to some things. This is how we keep the lights on (i.e. You can still be a victim in a tourist zone if you are not being careful. We are also a member of several other affiliate networks. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we see from our readers about staying safe in Baja California. , and its best to buy bottled water or water filters to prevent food poisoning. Of course, there are more than just these crimes. Bridges over the border and across the Tijuana river become dangerous at night. Its not entirely clear who owns the bars in Zona Norte, but the cartel or gangs likely exercise strict control over the place. Zona Norte is a party district, and its most well known as being Tijuanas red-light district. Yes, Uber might be even safer than taxis in Tijuana. Stratfor Worldview. It is also a city full of friendly . The cartels control important drug and human trafficking routes across the border. There is a real danger for women who travel alone to Tijuana. He says the tourist areas are safe. Copyright 2023 Where the Rooster Crows - Best & Safest Places to Visit & Live. As mentioned above, Los Cabos is currently the deadliest city in Mexico. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. And the people are great, there is quite a bit to see and do, and the food is both amazing and international. Additionally, there are plenty of officers around here, so you can always ask them if you get confused. Two, traffic safety is rather alarming. Mugging isnt as prevalent, and you must look out for it in the wrong neighborhoods outside touristy attractions. | Safety Concerns, Written by: Author Andrew Helling |Reviewed by: Editorial Team, Posted on Last updated: November 22, 2022. Tijuana is not an area that has been the target of terrorist threats in recent history. As a safe bet aim stay vigilant no matter where you find yourself in the country. Theyre like buses but dont have a set schedule. They are fast and quite clever, so you need to make sure your items are protected. But the water in Mexico isnt safe to drink. (In 2023). 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 . April 30, 2023 2:06 AM PT. Stick to the touristy areas, and avoid walking at night to prevent this kind of crime. The most common of these in this Mexican city is overcharging. 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. Is Tijuanas Red Light District Safe? Additionally, there are plenty of reports of car theft and break-ins within these parking lots. Its a common story to hear about tourists being pulled aside by corrupt police in Tijuana. Exploring LA on Foot: How to Stay Alive While Strolling the City of Angels! The most common trouble Americans will face in Baja . While Ensenada has some good hiking trails, its essential to ask your hotel or Airbnb host if its a good idea to go. They can stop you on the street and pat you down to find something to charge you a fine for. 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. With the right precautions, its still possible to have a safe and enjoyable trip to Tijuana. Drug deals are standard, which means that drug dealers and their henchmen are also present. At the same time, record numbers of U.S. citizens are either visiting Mexico as tourists or residing in the country, yet the number of Americans murdered in Mexico remains remarkably low. You can get scammed in Tijuana very easily. There are 134 murders per 100,000 people. There are 134 murders per 100,000 people, and Tijuana has been ranked the most violent city in the world. Be safe in your hotel or across the border. It is the lowest average temperature of the whole year. With a population of 1,763,197, there are 134 murders per 100,000 people. Some prostitutes may drug and rob men who visit them, and thieves may operate in the area. Things like a lockable bag, a fanny pack, and even a chained wallet will help deter thieves. Final Thoughts: Is Tijuana Safe? Thats especially true on the weekends when there are large crowds. I think facts are the best way to understand how dangerous Tijuana is. It is Mexicos most populous city with 2,181,000 people, and the 2nd largest city in the country after Mexico City. Politely tell them no, thank you, and theyll move on. So, how safe is Tijuana for Americans in 2023? 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! Just make sure you have at least 3-4 other people with you and things will be fine. The most dangerous neighborhoods in Tijuana are those that are known for being a center of drug trafficking and organized crime.
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