Sometimes they work in groups. Hong Kong is one of the more reputable. They will strike typically when youre in a crowded market or a busy area. What should I do if I feel unsafe in Tijuana? pay for content, product research, guides, and more). Always check theCDCs travel noticesfor warnings about hurricanes, Zika, and other diseases and natural disasters. And do not mess with drugs down there. The two most prominent strip clubs are Hong Kong Gentlemens Club and Adelitas. Is it normal to feel lost after high school? To get there, use the train ride on the Imperial Way blue line (bright-red Tijuana Trolley) from San Diego. There are parking lots where you can park your car and then walk over the border to downtown Tijuana, so theres no real need. Staying Safe In Tijuana: What Tourists And Residents Need To Know. If you want to see the world, go see it! Globe-Trotting Without the Worry: The Ultimate Guide to Healthcare for Expats Across the World! It also advises you to always stick to the main roads and highways. And about 2/3rds of those murders happened at nighttime. I do not represent World Nomads. This is how we keep the lights on (i.e. Road signs and markings may be missing or not well organized. And if you do travel over to Zona Norte, to places like Hong Kongs Gentlemens Club, make sure to take a taxi directly there and back. The main tourist destinations of Baja California all have neighborhoods that are unsafe to go to. Avoid Sanchez Taboada and Camino Verde, along with the citys neighborhoods. Theyre like buses but dont have a set schedule. Rent for a 2-3 bedroom apartment or house- In a normal area outside of the city center, expect to spend $400-$600 for a large apart or home. However, there's no denying that Tijuana is a dangerous city. Laws and lights are frequently ignored, and speeding is common. Violent crime is possible as well. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. You should have no problems if you avoid the bad areas and dont draw unwanted attention. To get the best and safest tourist experience in Tijuana, stick to the tourist districts and consider the following travel-safe practices: . It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. The corruption is rampant, but that doesnt mean all the police officers are out for a buck. 2019 was an especially violent year for the city. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. New York and Chicago have higher crime rates than Baja California. Well, the use of good judgment will determine how safe it will be for you. Enjoy. Therefore, arranging private transportation is critical before visiting wineries in Guadalupe Valley. Here is a list of 10 safety tips you should follow when visiting Tijuana: When traveling to any new destination, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers that may await you. , and its up to you to decide how much risk you want to tolerate in a destination. Petty crime like pickpocketing and theft is prevalent even in touristy areas, particularly in crowds. Watch out for drivers who are speeding or driving while drunk. There has been a spike in homicides in the last couple of years, due to drug-related gang violence. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. After threatening him with three days in jail, McMillan said, the officers suggested McMillan pay them a bribe. It is highly recommended that you avoid walking alone at night and stick to well-known areas. There are 134 murders per 100,000 people, and Tijuana has been ranked the most violent city in the world. Drug deals are standard, which means that drug dealers and their henchmen are also present. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. The most common trouble Americans will face in Baja California is petty crime. Rosarito is generally safe, but crime can still occur. However, you should stick to the main roads and avoid hitchhikers. Street tacos are abundant, and its worth trying them at least once. Because of cartel activity in these areas, between 2007 and 2010, there . Millions of Americans have taken day trips to Tijuana and continue to do so. 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. Traveling to Tijuana and Rosarito, Baja California, poses a "serious risk," according to US officials. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. We all get it. While driving in cities like Tijuana, watch out for dogs crossing the road. 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. While the poverty youll witness here is not on the level of whats in India or even in some parts of South America, you will see it. The Best Time to Visit Rocky Mountain National Park in 2023, Is Detroit Safe to Visit in 2023? Armed muggings can also occur at traffic lights, even in busy cities. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. Water from hotel vending machines is also safe as its purified water. You can find souvenirs here and also get a chance to taste some of the local, delicious food. Baja California, meaning Lower California, is right below California on the other side of the border. Tijuana is Mexico's 6th largest city, and it's most dangerous. After all, the city has been ranked as the most violent city in the world for multiple years running now. in the city. You should have no problems if you avoid the bad areas and dont draw unwanted attention. The entire area is seedy, and bad things can go down quickly. If youre innocent, pay the bribe on the spot and definitely dont go to the station. I will never step foot in Tijuana again. While its the easiest and fastest way to end the situation, youre perpetuating the cycle and telling the police officer its okay to shake down tourists. After you get through immigration, youll walk a bit more toward the final turn-styles that will take you into Mexico. Cons are everywhere, from the taxi to your hotel and even tours. 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. So in the 1920s Tijuana exploded as a getaway for Americans looking to indulge in both drinking and gambling during prohibition times. You can arrive at the border by either car, train, or bus. You may also have to fill out a form from the Mexican immigration authorities. The fact of the matter is, this happens and theres not much you can do about it. The center of Ensenada is safe, as is the promenade on the water and its touristy beaches. Stick to the touristy areas, and avoid walking at night to prevent this kind of crime. Yes, Tijuana is dangerous. It is always advisable to wear sunscreen when visiting anywhere in Mexico. 7 Day Itinerary to Fiji: A Comprehensive Guide to Exploring Fiji, Where to Travel in South America in August: A Guide to the Best Destinations, Why You Should Think Twice Before Posting on Social Media While on Vacation, Debunking the Myths and Discovering the Thrills of Scuba Diving! This is a cartel-operated area. The fact of the matter, as of recently, the Tijuana police are mostly owned by the cartel. Even if your GPS app suggests a better route, remember that it may not be safer, so try not to go off the main road too much. The same goes for Ensenada. I got a backpack, a wallet, a handbag for my fianc. Did you know the striped painted donkey is called a Zonkey? Tijuana is safe to visit if you take suitable precautions. Dont have ice with drinks and only drink from factory-sealed bottles. The city has been plagued by drug cartels, gang violence, and human trafficking, leading to a rise in homicides and other violent crimes. Rosarito is generally safe, but avoid isolated areas of the beach, especially at night. 15 Tijuana - A Hotbed Of . They are going to be looking for anyone by themselves, so its important you dont travel alone there. 5 years ago. Make sure you use your phone in a reputable restaurant or store. Theyre there to prevent violent crime against tourists, not to help you. See this list of some of the. We are also a member of several other affiliate networks. I would bypass Tijuana and drive further south about 30 minutes to a beach town called Puerto Nuevo. The State Department cautions US citizens to be more careful and vigilant about their own safety when visiting Mexico. When he refused, McMillan said, one officer brandished a billy club and the other put him in a headlock. It's relatively safe. However, there is an increased risk of crime and kidnapping in Baja California, which is why the State Department has released a "Level 3 - Reconsider Travel" advisory for Baja California state.. Just be sure to stick to well-known and tourist-friendly areas, as some neighborhoods are best avoided after dark. There are 134 murders per 100,000 people. Be vigilant, pay attention, and always have a good understanding of where you are. 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 theUS Embassy in Mexico. Airports - General Rodolfo Snchez Taboada International Airport is an international airport in Mexicali. Bras, money belts or secret bag compartments will do. If you drink at a nightclub or bar, watch your drink like a hawk. | 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. US citizens need a passport or passport card to cross the border. Both the U.S. and Tijuana parking isnt great, and there have been many breakins reported in these lots. And some parts of Mexico . Is Tijuana safe for Americans? Is Tijuana dangerous for woman to travel to? At best, if you get too drunk and pass out, youll be robbed. All in all, youll want to keep your head up and your eyes peeled. In Tijuana, pickpockets are very active. These cookies do not store any personal information. Mexico is an appealing tourist destination, but visitors should be aware of the risks associated with the area. Tijuana consistently ranks in one of the top five most dangerous cities in the world based on homicide rates. Some plastic surgeons may not have the proper licenses. I dont no if this cop was good or bad. Various illegal activities occur near the border, and you never know what youll bump into. The dealer gets a cut of the fine, and their racket continues with the next victim. Either go on a tour, drive down from California, rent a car in Mexico, or hire a private driver for the day. If you buy a product we link to, we may earn a commission. Wherever you stay, ask your hotel receptionist or Airbnb host about which areas are safe to visit. Menu Menu Location (855) -506-6188 Contact . American Prohibition really made the city what it is. Cars are the easiest way to get around the city, but you can get by perfectly fine on foot. Then, they turn around and tell their corrupt policeman friend about it. Some prostitutes may drug and rob men who visit them, and thieves may operate in the area. According to the UK Government, over 576,971 British nationals visited Mexico in 2017 with most visits being trouble-free. 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. Of course, there are more than just these crimes. Be wary of attempts at credit-card fraud. Oddly enough, yes. These streets are regularly patrolled by officers and are marginally safer than the rest of Tijuana at night. Its improbable that you will be a kidnapping victim, asmost victimsare not foreigners but Mexican nationals, but its essential not to wander around alone at night. The places they recommend are typically more expensive as well. Zona Rio has many specialty shops, craft beer bars, a casino, and cultural tours. . However, keep children from wandering off. The dealer gets a cut of the fine, and their racket continues with the next victim. After they got the money and let me go. The metro and greyhound station is within walking distance of the border. Im sure you understand just how bad they are. In addition, you will notice more potholes and poorer road conditions than in San Diego, so drive slowly. Either go on a tour, drive down from California, rent a car in Mexico, or hire a private driver for the day. Other things you should watch out for are taxi drivers taking the long way to your destination, trying to convince you that your hotel or restaurant is full and recommending another place. Tijuana is no joke. 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. Crime is another issue that should concern you. Not for the moment. | Safety Concerns, Written by: Author Andrew Helling |Reviewed by: Editorial Team, Posted on Last updated: November 22, 2022. Many locals and visitors alike continue to enjoy the vibrant culture and beauty of the city without issue. There are several bars and clubs in Tijuana that are safe to visit, but it is always best to check with your hotel concierge before venturing out. Tijuana is repeatedly cited as being the most dangerous city in Mexico and one of the most dangerous in the world. For most people, the trip down there is uneventful. Water from hotel vending machines is also safe as its purified water. In 2009, 4 young Americans headed to Tijuana for a night of partying, but their night ended when they were brutally murdered. Its a huge red-light district, and its the largest in North America. 13 Tips to Get Rich as an Expat Read More , Copyright 2023 Where the Rooster Crows - Best & Safest Places to Visit & Live. | Safety Concerns, Where to Stay in Hawaii in 2023 | Best Islands & Hotels, Is Riviera Maya Safe to Visit in 2023? ). Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. In 1924, an Italian immigrant named Caesar Cardini moved South of the border to Tijuana in an effort to improve his restaurant business. 9,017 posts. Mugging isnt as prevalent, and you must look out for it in the wrong neighborhoods outside touristy attractions. Its best to avoid Ensenadas red light district as well. Neighborhoods like Zona Rio and Playas de Tijuana are known to be some of the safest areas. Layerculture is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com Other affiliate programs linking to other recommended products and services are also used. Tijuana is a city, and it experiences crime like all cities. The situation has become so dire that the US State Department has issued a Level 4 travel advisory for Tijuana, warning Americans not to visit the city due to the high levels of crime and violence. Dont let the cheery colors confuse you they paint the houses those colors to make those areas look more welcoming. This website is using cookies to analyze our traffic, personalize content and/or ads, and provide video content. Don't miss out on this exciting city just because of its poor reputation. Be safe in your hotel or across the border. Politely tell them no, thank you, and theyll move on. Stay in a secure hotel, hostel, or Airbnb instead of camping on the beach. Tijuana, located only 30 minutes south of San Diego, is a popular vacation . US dollars are accepted in Tijuana but not everywhere. Dont take your phone out in busy areas. Most of the time, its just not worth it. Tijuana isnt one of those places you go wild in. Things like museums, lovely beaches or busy markets. Zachary Rabinor, founder and CEO of the travel company Journey Mexico, says it's important to remember that the Americans were killed and kidnapped a long distance from popular tourist destinations in Mexico. Its best to eat from established restaurants with good reviews. Its not entirely clear who owns the bars in Zona Norte, but the cartel or gangs likely exercise strict control over the place. Dont go where there are few other people in the vicinity; this includes camping in secluded places. Weve all been there. A drivers license is not acceptable. Travelers should avoid remote areas as well as non-tourist areas because the main highway is generally safe, but non-tourist areas can also have high homicide rates. Two, traffic safety is rather alarming. Additionally, there are plenty of officers around here, so you can always ask them if you get confused. Here are a few notable ones: Its really easy to walk into Mexico. When you buy bottled water, be sure to check the seal on the cap. Despite the high levels of crime and violence, Tijuana is still a popular destination for American tourists. See state summaries and advisory levels below for information on your specific travel destination. He drove me further into TJ and then let me go. Tijuana has a lot of great food. 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 always. The same goes for Ensenada. You may even have trouble finding a taxi, and Uber may not work as you get further away from the city. Essentially, this is an age-old story that repeats itself about every decade in Mexico. The Valle de Guadalupe (Guadalupe Valley) in Baja California features many wineries and restaurants. If you are kidnapped, never resist. In almost all cases, there is a lot of commotion and distractions going on around you, so it makes it easy for the thief to steal from you. If you must go, get a taxi or uber directly to the door of the club. There are good police officers, and if you break the law, you should pay a legitimate fine or jail time. Is it safe to go to Tijuana from San Diego in 2023? Yes, travelling alone in Mexico is safe. 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. As you walk, there will be taxi drivers along the pathway offering their driving services. However, theres a lot of nuance to the situation that makes Tijuana much safer to visit than you think. Try using a taxi booked through a hotel or Uber. Americans Kidnapped in Mexico"We have no power to get anyone out of jail or to represent anyone in a criminal proceeding if they get in . Colectivos are another great option. If you go, make sure to stay with a group and avoid going outside of the tourist district. Be safe in your hotel or across the border. Note that travel advisory warnings change all the time. One of the policemen removed McMillans credit card from his wallet, asked him for his PIN number and withdrew $400 from an ATM. The ticket is then read by a judge who often lowers the price. Following the arrest of a key cartel boss, the US Embassy in Mexico has advised American tourists to avoid Tijana, Rosarito, and Baja California due to serious safety concerns. So is Tijuana dangerous? This is quite common in tourist areas down there, so watch out. The U.S. Embassy in Mexico warned Americans traveling to Tijuana and Rosarito of heightened risk for violence between cartels after authorities announced the arrest of a high-ranking cartel leader last week. 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. However, food preparation laws are slack here than in America. A common scam is for a dealer to approach you to sell drugs. Not all the taxis use their meters and can charge you a criminal price when you get to your destination. Often a so-called tour guide or the like will attempt to befriend you. Its a good idea to visit them all but I recommend you go with a group. So, once the sun ducks below the horizon, you should be solidly inside your hotel. You may even have trouble finding a taxi, and Uber may not work as you get further away from the city. Wherever you stay, ask your hotel receptionist or Airbnb host about which areas are safe to visit. The rating is mostly based on its insanely high homicide rate of 2,367. Thats especially true on the weekends when there are large crowds. 10 reviews. If youre just planning on spending a day or two in the city, head back, and you can have a great time. The most common trouble Americans will face in Baja . Youll have a great time and be back before dark. You can have a more stress-free ride using Uber. However, try to negotiate the price if you choose this option. Gangs fight over territory, and cartels wage war over profitable smuggling routes in the US. The LAZ and International parking located just outside of the San Ysidro metro station prices are reported as deceptive. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. While it may not be as safe as popular tourist destinations like Playa del Carmen, Cabo San Lucas, and Puerto Vallarta, Tijuana is absolutely safe enough to visit. Various cartel groups and gangs often fight for turf, leading to shootings and deaths. The biggest threat in Tijuana is the drug cartel. A Night in Tijuana: Female Victimization in a High-Risk Environment by Pacific, Dont Let Thieves Win: 10 Genius Tips to Keep Your Valuables Safe While Traveling!. Even on streets regularly patrolled at night, you still risk becoming a victim. | Travel Tips & Safety Concerns, Is Albania Safe in 2023? The victims, two men and two women in their teens and early 20s, said they were headed for a night of partying across the border only to be found strangled, stabbed and beaten a few days later. NY Daily News. Restaurants and food vendors typically serve purified or bottled water, and the ice from these places is safe. Happy travels! Kidnappers may attempt to extort money from family members as a ransom, or they may take you to ATMs and force you to take out cash in exchange for your freedom. "That's about . These informal settlements frequently have increased gang activity and high poverty levels, making them unsafe for Americans to wander around alone. Most of them list the fines as 5,000 pesos ($500), but you can argue them down to 500 to 1000 pesos ($25-$50). Watching Out for Earthquakes, Hurricanes, and Diseases, Both earthquakes and hurricanes can occur in Mexico, according to the, There is also a risk of Zika virus along the coast, according to. Riding a moped in Phuket, Cebu City, Mumbai, and more. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Its important to realize that driving in Mexico is not like driving in the United States. Many drivers may not even have a valid license. They can stop you on the street and pat you down to find something to charge you a fine for. However, at night, it gets rather sketchy. If you are kidnapped, never resist. You dont want to wander around Tijuana at night. In Zona Norte, the ladies there are checked monthly. El Popo Market is also a great place to go to just to see the local products being sold. 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. Reluctantly, McMillan followed the officer and his colleague to the patrol car, where he was ordered to get in the back seat. To determine the answer to, is Tijuana Dangerous?, one must look at the facts. These informal settlements frequently have increased gang activity and high poverty levels, making them unsafe for Americans to wander around alone. Check it out. However, try to negotiate the price if you choose this option. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Due to the limited food supplies at the time in the region, he invented the caesar salad. pay for content, product research, guides, and more). At least once per year, he drives down for a cheap teeth cleaning and check-up. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. He asked about money and I told him his friends already took everything I had. Don't make yourself a target. For the best beach resort towns, like Cabo San Lucas, youll want to go further south to Baja California Sur. Most of the begging is going to occur right at the border and on Avenida Revolucin.
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