Tourists arent targeted for violence, but that doesnt mean you should tempt fate. In fact, all of Mexico's popular tourist areas are relatively safe, so whether you're traveling for the beach or the culture, you can be assured you'll be welcomed and safe. Oddly enough, yes. Rosarito is generally safe, but crime can still occur. There are good police officers, and if you break the law, you should pay a legitimate fine or jail time. 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. You can still be a victim in a tourist zone if you are not being careful. Indeed Tijuana has a lot of great shopping, nightlife, and attractions to enjoy as long as you take some basic safety precautions. And two, you dont know who might be working with the police. Happy travels! Tijuana is safe to travel to with the family so long as you spend your time during the daylight hours and stick to the downtown areas such as Avenida Revolucin. Then, they turn around and tell their corrupt policeman friend about it. While it isnt as bad in recent years, theres no denying that the police of. Various cartel groups and gangs often fight for turf, leading to shootings and deaths. Police arent helpful and can be extremely inappropriate. in the city. I got a backpack, a wallet, a handbag for my fianc. Enjoy your trip! The main reason for the astronomically high murder rate is the gang andcartel violencein the city. But in crowded areas there are pickpockets and thieves and other criminals so its best to be in a group, pay attention to your things and your surroundings. How Dangerous is Scuba Diving. 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. This website is using cookies to analyze our traffic, personalize content and/or ads, and provide video content. Tijuana is repeatedly cited as being the most dangerous city in Mexico and one of the most dangerous in the world. 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. Before your trip to Baja California, Mexico, keep the following advice in mind. Cartels frequently traffic drugs throughout the region. Many Americans travel to Tijuana for affordable medical and dental care. Get the best deal on your trip by comparing deals on Booking.com and Expedia! Plus, being a police officer in this tough city isnt all sunshine and rainbows. If you go, make sure to stay with a group and avoid going outside of the tourist district. The places they recommend are typically more expensive as well. However, while it is certainly not without its risks, Tijuana is generally safe for travel if visitors take the right precautions by sticking to certain areas. Is Tijuana Safe to Visit in 2023? When you ask is Tijuana dangerous?, you wouldnt immediately think about water. Drug deals are standard, which means that drug dealers and their henchmen are also present. After all, the city has been ranked as the most violent city in the world for multiple years running now. Youll have a great time and be back before dark. If youre innocent, pay the bribe on the spot and definitely dont go to the station. The main reason for the astronomically high murder rate is the gang and. Violent crime is possible as well. The metro and greyhound station is within walking distance of the border. If you are kidnapped, never resist. This is a cartel-operated area. 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. Important Considerations for a Safe Tijuana Visit. 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.. Both the U.S. and Tijuana parking isnt great, and there have been many breakins reported in these lots. This website is using cookies to analyze our traffic, personalize content and/or ads, and provide video content. Tijuana is known for its nightlife, but drunks are frequent targets, especially walking alone. Lastly, be extra vigilant about your belongings. Going over with a group of friends to the touristy Avenida Revolucin should be okay, but travel there only during the day. You should have no problems if you avoid the bad areas and dont draw unwanted attention. Tijuana has human trafficking because of the cartels, and you dont want your little ones becoming victims. Im not saying there arent thousands of tourists that go there without incident, but things do unfortunately happen to tourists there every year. Staying aware of your situation and taking precautions is the best way to protect yourself while visiting Tijuana. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. Tijuana is a city, and it experiences crime like all cities. Not only could an altercation in a bar turn violent quickly, but you could end up in a Mexican jail. Dont let its fearsome reputation get to you. You may even have trouble finding a taxi, and Uber may not work as you get further away from the city. Its not entirely clear who owns the bars in Zona Norte, but the cartel or gangs likely exercise strict control over the place. Tijuana really is the wild west. How Dangerous is Scuba Diving. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. There are parking lots where you can park your car and then walk over the border to downtown Tijuana, so theres no real need. Due to it being on the border, various malicious actors are present, which only increases crime levels. A simple rule: if there are families around, youre probably safe. For about 8 blocks, Revolucin is lined with shops, bars, and restaurants, many aimed at tourists. Dont eat unwashed salad foods, theres a risk of E. Coli poisoning. During the day, in the safe neighborhoods and places, nothing will happen. I thought it wasnt to dangerous and it almost cost me my life. Enjoy. The biggest threat in Tijuana is the drug cartel. Its improbable that you will be a kidnapping victim, as. If you buy a product we link to, we may earn a commission. But the water in Mexico isnt safe to drink. Tijuana is a safe city to travel. 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. Drug deals are standard, which means that drug dealers and their henchmen are also present. Privacy Policy. 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. They sit at their stops until they have a full bus and then stop. At least once per year, he drives down for a cheap teeth cleaning and check-up. . Even knowing the basics will get you quite far. If you have to walk over the bridge, cross with someone else. October 6, 2020: View of poor area of Tijuana Mexico with buildings on hill and traffic in foreground/Manuela Durson/Shutterstock. So, dont let the possible threat keep you from visiting. Theres food from all regions of Mexico and some American fare since its so close to the border. 13 Tips to Get Rich as an Expat Read More , Copyright 2023 Where the Rooster Crows - Best & Safest Places to Visit & Live. 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. When he refused, McMillan said, one officer brandished a billy club and the other put him in a headlock. Fortunately, most homicides are cartel-related and occur in neighborhoods tourists dont frequent. Theres a LOT to see here so this is a must-visit if you have kids. You can get scammed in Tijuana very easily. Make sure all foods are heated all the way through. In Zona Norte, the ladies there are checked monthly. 7. This is not a city to get lost in. It is not an area where you will expect a blizzard or tornado either. Its a huge red-light district, and its the largest in North America. All in all, youll want to keep your head up and your eyes peeled. The most common trouble Americans will face in Baja California is petty crime. Travellers Worldwide is reader-supported. Is it normal to feel lost after high school? Various cartel groups and gangs often fight for turf, leading to shootings and deaths. Therefore, arranging private transportation is critical before visiting wineries in Guadalupe Valley. Drink spiking is typical, and women should be extra cautious. Cons are everywhere, from the taxi to your hotel and even tours. Tijuana, Mexico's famed red-light district, called Zona Norte, sits a stone's throw from the US-Mexico border. The city is a great base for exploring Baja Californias wine country, as well as the beaches and resorts on the Pacific coast. As in many Latin American cities, youll notice neighborhoods on the hills surrounding the cities, which often feature colorful houses. We all get it. July 21, 2021 1:41 PM PT. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. If you are kidnapped, never resist. Dont carry expensive bags, wear designer clothes or sporty new shoes. Dont take your phone out in busy areas. So, dont buy drugs in Tijuana. 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. After threatening him with three days in jail, McMillan said, the officers suggested McMillan pay them a bribe. In my opinion, there isnt any upside to driving your car over the border. Is it safe to go to Tijuana from San Diego 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. Save. If you have to walk over the bridge, cross with someone else. Don't make yourself a target. For short trips, yes. From the station, there are signs marking the path toward Mexico. The fact of the matter, as of recently, the Tijuana police are mostly owned by the cartel. 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. Theres also the aquarium and much more to see. Restaurants and food vendors typically serve purified or bottled water, and the ice from these places is safe. Baja California, meaning Lower California, is right below California on the other side of the border. I would NOT visit Tijuana alone as it can become dangerous even if you are a man. However, the best strategy for most visitors (especially day trippers) is to visit several exchange vendors and choose one that gives the best rate. Both earthquakes and hurricanes can occur in Mexico, according to theUK government. It is always advisable to wear sunscreen when visiting anywhere in Mexico. Road signs and markings may be missing or not well organized. The corruption is rampant, but that doesnt mean all the police officers are out for a buck. If prostitutes come to you, they often try to distract you by touching you before pickpocketing any valuables you have. Solo travel in Mexico can make one feel very vulnerable at times - though that goes for anywhere, especially in Latin America. Weve all been there. 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. Tip: Street vendors may be selling items like popsicles or slushes that were made from tap water, so avoid the water-based food items from street carts. 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. Tijuana is a fun place with great shopping and excellent food. Muggers target tourists that may be a bit drunk. US dollars are accepted in Tijuana but not everywhere. These guys murder like its a hobby for them. These informal settlements frequently have increased gang activity and high poverty levels, making them unsafe for Americans to wander around alone. | Safety Concerns. Pickpocketing, muggings, and home break-ins are all risks to be wary of. The state of Quintana Roo and its Riviera Maya is the most popular tourist zone in Mexico. 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. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we see from our readers about staying safe in Baja California. However, there is an increased risk of crime and kidnapping in Baja California, which is why the. However, try to negotiate the price if you choose this option. Wherever you stay, ask your hotel receptionist or Airbnb host about which areas are safe to visit. Although if you travel down to party in the infamous Zona Norte red light district, then youre taking your chances. It's not safe. By and large, the majority of crime in Tijuana happens in working-class neighborhoods outside the city center. Questions over Americans' safety in Mexico have been underlined by . While the cartels primary income source is not robbing tourists, thats not to say it never happens. Stratfor WorldView paints a different picture for both tourists and expats traveling to Tijuana. Tijuana, located only 30 minutes south of San Diego, is a popular vacation . You should pay traffic fines on the official. Things like museums, lovely beaches or busy markets. Keep a solid buzz, don't get drunk. If you go out at night (mostly interested in the nightlife), again make sure you dont go alone. Dont accept offers of drugs. Its a good idea to visit them all but I recommend you go with a group. 70 helpful votes. , and its best to buy bottled water or water filters to prevent food poisoning. The center of Ensenada is safe, as is the promenade on the water and its touristy beaches. Because the rates of taxis are not always consistent, I would suggest taking an Uber there. | Safety Concerns, per 100,000 people, many news outlets call Tijuana The Most Dangerous City in The World.. The State Department urges those who do travel to remain on main . Im sure you understand just how bad they are. Come with me, to the car, said the uniformed police officer. These guys will try to steal from you while youre distracted. The end of 2021 has shown little improvement, and Tijuana has an average of about 164 murders a month now (source - Border Report ). For most people, the trip down there is uneventful. In 2017, the murder rate per 100,000 people was 365. I dont no if this cop was good or bad. With recent events transpiring between the United States and Mexico, Tijuana is not a spot you'd want to venture off to right now. Its not like the Jersey Shore or Miami Beach. So be sure to avoid sketchy areas and always be aware of your surroundings. Its a bad look. The cultural center announced it would be . There have been altercations between taxi and Uber drivers, and while passengers havent been targeted, you dont want to be the first. Not sure if they were worried about me reporting them. If you must go, get a taxi or uber directly to the door of the club. Much of the media surrounding the city is sensationalized. In general, you should avoid seedy bars and stick to well-lit popular places within tourist areas. Some tourists have found it easier to simply pay a bribe and give in to the extortion rather than ask the police officer to accompany them to the station. Especially near the border. Mexico is an appealing tourist destination, but visitors should be aware of the risks associated with the area. There is a small risk of hurricanes, but generally only during the months right before and after a hurricane season. The most common trouble Americans will face in Baja . To Americans raised to trust "Officer Friendly," the concept of police and public official corruption may seem difficult to grasp. Also, like Tijuana, Ensenada has a Zona de Tolerancia a tolerance zone where prostitution is legal. Theyre like buses but dont have a set schedule. Also, the town is dangerous because of territorial disputes between drug cartels, countless scams, and numerous muggings. Many travelers visit the red light district of Tijuana to hire prostitutes, visit massage parlors, or simply enjoy a drink at one of the many lady bars or strip clubs in the area. Driving through Baja is generally safe. In fact, due to corruption and drug violence, Mexico holds the top 5 positions on this list. The one and only famous caesar salad was invented in none other than Tijuana. Various illegal activities occur near the border, and you never know what youll bump into. But the reality is that while Tijuana is a wonderful place, its very dangerous to visit. In January, the average temperature is 11.4 C. Many drivers may not even have a valid license. | 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. especially homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. Its best to apologize and walk away here. Keep dummy wallets for pickpockets and keep your money hidden away. A homeless man who witnessed the cop dragging me out of the car approached me and bought me a coke and I sat with him and then the driver from the drs office appeared after my fianc using find my friends gave him my location and got me back to the hotel. Some plastic surgeons may not have the proper licenses. Crime is another issue that should concern you. On Thursday I went to the the center of town and did some shopping. Is Tijuana safe for Americans? Flag taxis from the street; take Uber or Didi instead. In the end, you should try and break the process to prevent more corruption in the future. For one, they are drugs. If you buy a product we link to, we may earn a commission. When I think of Tijuana, Ive always had images of young kids making a run to the border to blow off some steam. These include the downtown area, the Zona Rio, Zona Centro, Zona Norte, and the beaches. If you must be out and about at night, Avenida Revolucion remains relatively safe, along with Paseo de Los Heroes and Calle Coahuila. Ensenada has some bad areas, but they tend to be on the citys outskirts. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. View the San Diego blue line schedule and map here. 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! Be safe in your hotel or across the border. Airports - General Rodolfo Snchez Taboada International Airport is an international airport in Mexicali. Country Summary: Violent crime - such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery - is widespread and common in Mexico. First and foremost, dont dress like you want to be robbed. The vast majority of citizens in Tijuana want you to enjoy your stay. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. The US State Department gives Baja California Sur a Level 2 Exercise Increased Caution travel advisory, compared to the Level 3 Reconsider Travel advisory it gives to Baja California. See this list of some of the. If you wish to enjoy excellent nightlife and a relaxing city on the water, Ensenada is a quiet and small city that is much safer than Tijuana. Tijuana is a city located in the Mexican state of Baja California, on the US-Mexico border. They will strike typically when youre in a crowded market or a busy area. With its stunning beaches, delicious food, and lively culture, it's no wonder why so many Americans are drawn to this city.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. Also, like Tijuana, Ensenada has a Zona de Tolerancia a tolerance zone where prostitution is legal. Many police officers in Mexico are highly corrupt. Cash only. Many Americans visit Tijuana in Mexico, making it one of the country's most popular tourist destinations. And it should go without saying, but never under any circumstances buy drugs in the city. If you go out for a drink in a touristy club, be extra vigilant about your drink so it does not get spiked. Yes! This means that this municipality has the largest per capita murder rates in the world. However, is Baja California safe for tourists, both single tourists and families? The most common trouble Americans will face in Baja California is petty crime. Mexico is generally a poor country, and youll stick out like a sore thumb if youre carrying an expensive camera and wearing gold jewelry. The line back to San Diego might be a hassle but it'll be worth the trip for a nice gastronomic experience. They can stop you on the street and pat you down to find something to charge you a fine for. Greyhound offers regular bus services from the San Diego Bus Station downtown (1313 National Ave.) to Tijuana Central Bus Station. Yes! So, once the sun ducks below the horizon, you should be solidly inside your hotel. One of Tijuanas best assets is the delicious food. There is also a risk of Zika virus along the coast, according toTravelHealthPro. [viator_tour destination="76] . Theyre like buses but dont have a set schedule. Mugging isnt as prevalent, and you must look out for it in the wrong neighborhoods outside touristy attractions. Reluctantly, McMillan followed the officer and his colleague to the patrol car, where he was ordered to get in the back seat. Stay in popular tourist-friendly zones. Additionally, if youre new to Tijuana, it will be hard to find your way at night. 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. Despite the high levels of crime and violence, Tijuana is still a popular destination for American tourists. Before I continue, its important to distinguish between Baja California and Baja California Sur. Next, make sure to not walk down unfamiliar streets, alleyways, or unlit areas. Predictors of victimization among young females (aged 16-20) generally included environmental factors, whereas evening drinking was associated with victimization among women aged 21 and older. A Night in Tijuana: Female Victimization in a High-Risk Environment by Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation. Dont be mistaken though, people live there. Its not going to set you back too much to hand out a few dollars. Locals, we go out in the city . I will never step foot in Tijuana again. Dental care is probably the most common type of medical tourism in Tijuana. In this article, Im going to go over some important notes to help you stay safe while in Tijuana. Note that travel advisory warnings change all the time. Are there areas of Tijuana that are safer than others? Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. 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. So in the 1920s Tijuana exploded as a getaway for Americans looking to indulge in both drinking and gambling during prohibition times. If youre heading to Zona Norte to party, dont get overly intoxicated. This is quite common in tourist areas down there, so watch out. After you get through immigration, youll walk a bit more toward the final turn-styles that will take you into Mexico. These informal settlements frequently have increased gang activity and high poverty levels, making them unsafe for Americans to wander around alone. Prostitution is legal in Zona Norte, but the area is unsafe. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. The money goes to the station rather than the corrupt officers pockets. This is significantly higher than Juarez, Mexico. Just as McMillan was about to pass out, the policemen handcuffed him and threw him up against the car, telling him they were arresting him for resisting their inquiries. The Valle de Guadalupe (Guadalupe Valley) in Baja California features many wineries and restaurants. Laws and lights are frequently ignored, and speeding is common. You can also call the number for reporting police corruption, but it will probably make them angry. Its not an easy place to live. Despite that, they dont usually cause trouble for tourists. Avoid the eastern part of the city as it is simply not safe and will have little to see for a tourist. They are fast and quite clever, so you need to make sure your items are protected. The dealer gets a cut of the fine, and their racket continues with the next victim. Most of them list the fines as 5,000 pesos ($500), but you can argue them down to 500 to 1000 pesos ($25-$50). The dealer gets a cut of the fine, and their racket continues with the next victim. Exploring LA on Foot: How to Stay Alive While Strolling the City of Angels! 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.. "It gets categorized and creates this chaos and panic, to go south of the border. If youre just planning on spending a day or two in the city, head back, and you can have a great time. Colectivos are another great option. pay for content, product research, guides, and more). Funding the cartels means theyll keep taking over parts of Mexico. With millions of people living within an urban landscape, hardly any civilians see any of the gang-violence themselves. 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. Travellers Worldwide is reader-supported. Another area to avoid in Tijuana is Zona Centro, or the citys center. We use analytics to understand and improve the website experience, and we do not sell or share any data with a 3rd-party. If you take a taxi, negotiate a fare before you get in. Its the main historic street of Tijuana and is also referred to as Zona Centro. Its a very safe area, but public transport isnt always available. By keeping track of earthquake warnings, you can better plan your trip. People often give their services without being asked and want to be paid for them. Staying in well-lit areas with high foot traffic, Being aware of your surroundings and any suspicious activity, Using licensed taxi services and avoiding public transportation. Zona Norte, also known as Hong Kong District, is one of the most dangerous and highly trafficked tourist areas. 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. | Safety Concerns, Written by: Author Andrew Helling |Reviewed by: Editorial Team. The same goes for Ensenada. Stick to bottled water or drinks from sealed containers.
is tijuana safe for american tourists