Travel to Tijuana
Located at the northwestern end of the Baja California Peninsula, very close to San Diego, Tijuana is an exciting and vibrant city, where the rhythms of salsa and the aromatic smells of Mexican food fill the air. Travelling to Tijuana is popular among adventurers and those interested in old traditions and cultures as well as those looking for something a little bit on the wild side.
Transportation to Tijuana
The easiest way to travel to Tijuana is to cross the US border into Mexico. From the US border in San Diego, it takes about 15 minutes to get to the heart of Tijuana.
Those coming from other countries can arrive in Tijuana by air. There are two airports in Tijuana: Tijuana International Airport is served by major Mexican airlines, while San Diego International Airport serves international flights and is about five kilometres north of the international border, a popular transit point for travellers who want to visit Tijuana. From the airport, you can use a shuttle bus or taxi service that will take you to your destination.
Another easy option if you are coming from the USA is to take a trolley. Hop on a bright-red San Diego Trolley thats heading for San Ysidro and get off at the last stop, San Ysidro. From the trolley stop, cross the street and take the ramp to the border-crossing bridge. You will find Avenida Revolucin, the shopping district of Tijuana, within a short taxi ride of the bridge.
Walking is probably the best way to observe the city, as long as you dont wander off on your own in deserted places. There are also plenty of taxis, with the yellow ones having no meter and the Libre taxis with meters.
What to see
There are many things to see in Tijuana, with some of the attractions giving you a sense of Tijuana in past times and revealing fascinating stories about the city. Tijuana Cultural Centre boasts spectacular exhibits on art, sculpture and photography, with occasional performances reflecting the citys culture. Also, visit Our Lady of Guadalupe Cathedral, the oldest temple in Tijuana.
The Jai-Alai building is another interesting site where you can admire both the beauty of the architecture and observe the worlds fastest ball game, Basque handball (Jai Alai). Prepare for some amusement at the Wax Museum, which features important idols from Tijuanas history as well as Hollywood stars. Bullfighting rings and Jos Mara Morelos Park are also worth visiting.
Activities and leisure
You can easily keep yourself entertained in Tijuana. Shoppers will be amazed at the variety of goods sold on Avenida Revolucion, the busiest shopping street in Tijuana, while hungry tourists can feast on a variety of mouth-watering Mexican dishes. Nightlife is exciting and vibrant, and offers you intoxicating experiences that can be quite overwhelming. Tijuana is also an ideal place for golfers, with many professional golf courses around the city.
Daytrips
Having a car in Tijuana is rewarding, as you can drive out of Tijuana to admire the picturesque countryside and laze around on the beaches. Only 15 minutes drive from the city centre, you can soak up the sun on Rosaritos lovely beaches and enjoy fresh seafood, including tasty lobster.
Safety issues
Tijuana is not a very safe city and it is very famous for crime and police corruption. However, travelling in Tijuana is a fascinating experience, with its perfect weather, appealing attractions, various activities and sumptuous food. If you practice common sense and are extra careful wherever you go, you will enjoy your stay in Tijuana and minimise the risk of becoming a victim of crime.
Pick-pocketing is very common, so taking out travel insurance is essential to ensure that any mishaps or loss of property will be covered.