Everyone has an opinion on Mexico.
Some assume it is a phenomenal nation to trip in, nearly wherever, whether or not it is a timeless colonial city or a world-class seaside 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 really astonishing locations which can 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 truly one of the 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 by some means 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 inexpensive, 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 in all Mexico’s unsung digital nomad locations, do not simply take it from me — Tijuana is on the up-and-up for distant staff.
Yes, I’ve visited Tijuana a whole bunch of occasions, provided that my deal with 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 reality, I wager feedback could 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 robust because the wifi sign on the ritzier aspect of the town, however downtown is a superb possibility too, because it’s walkable and stuffed with cafes and classy bars.
Downtown (generally referred to as Revolucion) has undergone a large redevelopment and continues to rework.
No matter in order for you 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 can 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 night time, you’ll be able to nonetheless bar-hop safely alongside the newly constructed promenade. Just know, a couple of blocks away, for example, Amsterdam vibes begin to reveal the underbelly of Tijuana’s darker aspect that actually does not outline the entire metropolis.
Be Like Me: Enjoy The Best Of Both Worlds 🇲🇽🇺🇸
So-called “border towns” have a foul 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 couple of beggars, questionable farmacias, and unpleasant dust roads, however for those who can look previous that, you may discover a thrilling city playground you want you’d found sooner simply previous the eyesores.
Living so near Tijuana has been a blessing — it looks 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 the very 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 avoid wasting on lease.
According to Expatistan, TJ lease presently averages $1,124 in ritzy neighborhoods, and $566 elsewhere.
For what it is price, I pay $1,950 within the San Diego ‘burbs (are you able to hear me crying?).
Should you need to double dip, listed below are a few hacks to make crossing the ‘most visited border’ on this 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. by way of a personal skybridge (air journey solely)
- Tickets usually run $25 – $45
Tijuana’s Beach Scene Is Understated
Sure, Baja could come to thoughts while you’re dreaming of Mexico’s very good seashores, however Tijuana? Doubtful.
One purpose TJ hasn’t develop into a seaside vacation spot is the town’s aforementioned security issues and the truth that swimming right here is not the very best thought until your thought of enjoyable is wading in sewage run-off.
Yeah… me neither…
But ‘The Playas’ surroundings isn’t any much less stunning 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 circulation 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’ll be able to nonetheless get pleasure from ample seaside days with fixed sunshine, quite a few bars and eating places serving recent seafood, and an embracing expat neighborhood, the place it is unlikely you may ever have to brush up in your Spanish expertise.
If you do insist on going for a swim with out crossing into San Diego, stunning Rosarito provides the very best odds.
It’s a simple Uber journey down the coast and standard amongst surfers and households on trip. Just examine with the lifeguards first.
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