They can stop you on the street and pat you down to find something to charge you a fine for. Lastly, without a doubt, make sure not to try to walk to the tourist district at night. Read 10 Tips to protect your valuables while traveling. Baja California Sur is safer than Baja California itself. Especially near the border. The tourist locations are the safest part of the city. Check it out. Rosarito is generally safe, but avoid isolated areas of the beach, especially at night. So, dont buy drugs in Tijuana. It truly is more trouble than its worth. Exploring LA on Foot: How to Stay Alive While Strolling the City of Angels! 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. With that said, you need to be careful there. The Valle de Guadalupe (Guadalupe Valley) in Baja California features many wineries and restaurants. And about 2/3rds of those murders happened at nighttime. Yes, Uber might be even safer than taxis in Tijuana. . And some parts of Mexico . Tijuana is a tough town, no bones about it. It is dangerous. As you might have guessed, most violent crimes are drug-related in Tijuana. Mexico usually allows Americans to stay for up to six months on an approved cost-free Visa. Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and the Riviera Maya. 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.
15 Places In Mexico That Are Just Plain Dangerous (And 5 - TheTravel April 30, 2023 2:06 AM PT. When you buy bottled water, be sure to check the seal on the cap. Im not saying there arent thousands of tourists that go there without incident, but things do unfortunately happen to tourists there every year. There have been altercations between taxi and Uber drivers, and while passengers havent been targeted, you dont want to be the first. Its a common story to hear about tourists being pulled aside by corrupt police in Tijuana. Flag taxis from the street; take Uber or Didi instead. Fortunately, most homicides are cartel-related and occur in neighborhoods tourists dont frequent. They will strike typically when youre in a crowded market or a busy area. You may also have to fill out a form from the Mexican immigration authorities. Politely tell them no, thank you, and theyll move on. In 2017, the murder rate per 100,000 people was 365. You need to take the UC San Diego Blue Line, which starts at the American Plaza Transit Centre, near Fifth Avenue in San Diego's Gaslamp District, a popular tourist area. Crime is another issue that should concern you. Additionally, there will be taxis queuing at the end of the pathway as well.
Tijuana - yay or nay? : r/travel - Reddit After threatening him with three days in jail, McMillan said, the officers suggested McMillan pay them a bribe. The second type is a pickpocket with an accomplice, although they arent as sneaky. 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. Things like a lockable bag, a fanny pack, and even a chained wallet will help deter thieves. The rating is mostly based on its insanely high homicide rate of 2,367. warns against picking up hitchhikers. Be safe in your hotel or across the border. "It gets categorized and creates this chaos and panic, to go south of the border. 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. To give you an idea, Tijuana closed out July 2021 with a whopping 190 murders. It's well known for great seafood like Lobster at reasonable prices. If they accuse you of a crime, the best response is to get a paper ticket and then head to the police station to pay it. At some point in 2022, six homicides per day were recorded in the city. Lastly, if you travel to one of the infamous strip clubs or bars, make sure to get a taxi directly to the establishment door. It is not an area where you will expect a blizzard or tornado either. Therefore, arranging private transportation is critical before visiting wineries in Guadalupe Valley. Additionally, the Hong Kong Gentlemens Club is probably the most friendly and conservative for visitors, and it also has a hotel attached (Hotel Cascadas). Calle Coahuila, the area's main strip, is normally teeming with a frenetic . In 2021, Tijuana has been ranked number one for murders against women. If you have to walk over the bridge, cross with someone else. Its worth paying a bit more for a doctor, plastic surgeon, or dentist who has good reviews and recommendations from other foreigners and who speaks English. Would want to leave our valuables at home and remember to carry small bills for shopping. Theyre like buses but dont have a set schedule. Theyre there to prevent violent crime against tourists, not to help you. Stratfor Worldview. However, most of the time, its too much trouble for them, and they drop the matter entirely. 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. It is highly recommended that you avoid walking alone at night and stick to well-known areas. The state of Quintana Roo and its Riviera Maya is the most popular tourist zone in Mexico. Its improbable that you will be a kidnapping victim, as. The east side of the city is another area to avoid. Click here to get an offer for travel insurance. 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. Expensive-looking clothes mark you as a target, Ensure foods are cooked all the way through, Avoid food thats been sitting out in the open, Dont talk to anyone you meet on the street. For one, they are drugs. Tijuana is situated within the Mexican state of Baja California, and the heart of the city is only 5 miles from the Pacific coast.
Shooting kills 2 men, injures 3rd victim in Seattle park Is Tijuana Mexico Safe For Tourists? - Tour By Mexico Rosarito is generally safe, but crime can still occur. And its mostly centered around gang and cartel violence, where tourists arent targeted. However, is Baja California safe for tourists, both single tourists and families? There has been a spike in homicides in the last couple of years, due to drug-related gang violence. At 7.7 times more than Detroit, the end of 2019 recorded 2,100 total murders in Tijuana. The two states are next to each other, but Baja California Sur is further south, below Baja California. They act friendly and nice before launching into a sob story. Its a huge red-light district, and its the largest in North America. In general, you might want to avoid Tijuana altogether. When he refused, McMillan said, one officer brandished a billy club and the other put him in a headlock. 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. Solo travel in Mexico can make one feel very vulnerable at times - though that goes for anywhere, especially in Latin America.
New travel advisory for Tijuana and Rosarito - KGTV The money goes to the station rather than the corrupt officers pockets.
Dental offices can be found on almost every street corner. The fact of the matter is, this happens and theres not much you can do about it. Some prostitutes may drug and rob men who visit them, and thieves may operate in the area. . | Safety Concerns, Is Norway Safe to Visit in 2023? Make sure all foods are heated all the way through. Dental care is probably the most common type of medical tourism in Tijuana. 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! Remember, even though youre only a stones throw away from the United States, your rights as a U.S. citizen are seriously compromised while in Tijuana. Mugging isnt as prevalent, and you must look out for it in the wrong neighborhoods outside touristy attractions. 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. If you must travel to Tijuana right now, it may be best to go on a well-protected tour. I dont no if this cop was good or bad. 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 . There is so much good food down there, and you kinda just want to let your guard down and try everything. However, a lack of common sense or being in the wrong place at the wrong time can easily make you a victim of a crime. Always check theCDCs travel noticesfor warnings about hurricanes, Zika, and other diseases and natural disasters. Finally, earthquakes may occur from time to time as well. 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. | Safety Concerns, Is Norway Safe to Visit in 2023? Yes, visitors from Tijuana are typically safe as long as they stick to well-patrolled touristy areas and avoid trouble. We use analytics to understand and improve the website experience, and we do not sell or share any data with a 3rd-party. Be vigilant, pay attention, and always have a good understanding of where you are. On this budget, you could live in Zona Rio, downtown, or Playas de Tijuana. 15 Tijuana - A Hotbed Of .
How dangerous is tijuana for a tourist.i hear people ask me It also advises you to always stick to the main roads and highways. This website is using cookies to analyze our traffic, personalize content and/or ads, and provide video content. Come with me, to the car, said the uniformed police officer. A simple rule: if there are families around, youre probably safe. In January, the average temperature is 11.4 C. If you are a female tourist, there is a high risk that you will be harassed or even assaulted in Tijuana. Due to the limited food supplies at the time in the region, he invented the caesar salad. You will want to avoid the red light district Zona Norte (the North Zone) in Tijuana. After you get through immigration, youll walk a bit more toward the final turn-styles that will take you into Mexico. The biggest safety concern in Rosarito and other surrounding areas such as Tijuana, Mexicali and Tecate has been homicides. For the best beach resort towns, like Cabo San Lucas, youll want to go further south to Baja California Sur. If prostitutes come to you, they often try to distract you by touching you before pickpocketing any valuables you have. 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. Unless youre a Tijuana local, you probably shouldnt cross the border at night. These cookies do not store any personal information. Is it Safe to Travel to Tijuana right now? Tijuana is Mexico's 6th largest city, and it's most dangerous. El Popo Market is also a great place to go to just to see the local products being sold. Theres food from all regions of Mexico and some American fare since its so close to the border. Neighborhoods like Zona Rio and Playas de Tijuana are known to be some of the safest areas. Tijuana is safe enough to roam around and explore but take more care if heading outside of the main tourist zones of. Inform a family member or friend that you are traveling to Baja California, and update them about your movements. It is also a city full of friendly . However, the best strategy for most visitors (especially day trippers) is to visit several exchange vendors and choose one that gives the best rate. Due to it being on the border, various malicious actors are present, which only increases crime levels. You may even have trouble finding a taxi, and Uber may not work as you get further away from the city. As a border town, its become a melting pot attracting cooks from many different places. This website uses cookies to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits.
You should pay traffic fines on the official. The short answer is yes, Tijuana is safe for tourists. If you plan on using tap water for cooking or drinking, boil it first. Weve all been there. These motorcyclists are often in a hurry, as many deliver food for apps like Rappi or Uber Eats. The Best Time to Visit Rocky Mountain National Park in 2023, Is Detroit Safe to Visit in 2023? Greyhound offers regular bus services from the San Diego Bus Station downtown (1313 National Ave.) to Tijuana Central Bus Station. Laws and lights are frequently ignored, and speeding is common. I would bypass Tijuana and drive further south about 30 minutes to a beach town called Puerto Nuevo.
Is Tijuana dangerous to visit? (2023) - Where the Rooster Crows Violent crime is possible as well. Dont eat unwashed salad foods, theres a risk of E. Coli poisoning. If youre a couple of young guys heading down to TJ to party a bit, youre probably heading there to chase tail. Tijuana is known for the nightlife as it has a LOT of nightclubs and bars to go around. And the third type is the most dangerous. View the San Diego blue line schedule and map here. However, the greatest risk is the heat, especially in the summer when the temperature can rise above 100 degrees. 5 years ago. SEATTLE . Many will tell you that its completely safe there. The city has a thriving nightlife, with many bars and nightclubs. Another area to avoid in Tijuana is Zona Centro, or the citys center. Privacy Policy. They are going to be looking for anyone by themselves, so its important you dont travel alone there. The city is a great base for exploring Baja Californias wine country, as well as the beaches and resorts on the Pacific coast. You can still visit this restaurant. They sit at their stops until they have a full bus and then stop. The most dangerous neighborhoods in Tijuana are those that are known for being a center of drug trafficking and organized crime. At least once per year, he drives down for a cheap teeth cleaning and check-up. Stratfor Worldview reports that just in 2017, over 35 million Americans visited Mexico. Although if you travel down to party in the infamous Zona Norte red light district, then youre taking your chances. | Safety Concerns, Where to Stay in Hawaii in 2023 | Best Islands & Hotels, Is Riviera Maya Safe to Visit in 2023? The other category is petty crime and robberies. 2023 Copyright by Travel Safe - Abroad.
Living in Tijuana as an American - Where The Road Forks How Dangerous is Scuba Diving. Its also good to know a bit of Spanish while youre there. 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. Missing something? TIJUANA, BAJA CALIFORNIA/MEXICO JUNE 20, 2018: People walk along Avenida Revolucion, the citys main thoroughfare and a popular destination for Americans traveling south of the San Diego border/Sherry V Smith/Shutterstock. Outside of the tourist district of Zona Centro, Zona Norte is probably one of the main reasons many travel to Tijuana. TheFrench governmentwarns against picking up hitchhikers. Theres more to Tijuana than just the nightlife. Many drivers may not even have a valid license. Many locals and visitors alike continue to enjoy the vibrant culture and beauty of the city without issue. If you want to see the world, go see it! Walking just a few blocks beyond these well-patrolled areas can land you in the wrong part of town.