Just make sure you dont explore the city and get safe credible rides to any place. 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. Due to it being on the border, various malicious actors are present, which only increases crime levels. The short answer is yes, Tijuana is safe for tourists. A turf war between the Sinaloa cartel and the Nueva Generacin Jalisco has been the reason for an increase in violence. Is Tijuana Safe? Avoiding Common Scams and Crime Besides, acting like a gringo wont help with bargaining in shops, getting decent service, or keeping you safe. Best Place to Sit on a Plane for Anxiety: A Comprehensive Guide. So in the 1920s Tijuana exploded as a getaway for Americans looking to indulge in both drinking and gambling during prohibition times. Missing something? Also, like Tijuana, Ensenada has a Zona de Tolerancia a tolerance zone where prostitution is legal. Laws and lights are frequently ignored, and speeding is common. You can have a more stress-free ride using Uber. 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. While driving in cities like Tijuana, watch out for dogs crossing the road. Tijuana is dangerous because of cartels and gangs. Theres nothing youll want to see beyond the touristy areas, so familiarize yourself with a map of this city and where they are. The money goes to the station rather than the corrupt officers pockets. | Safety Concerns, Is Norway Safe to Visit in 2023? 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. Get the best deal on your trip by comparing deals on Booking.com and Expedia! Taxi drivers may scam you in this city - especially if you hail one from the street. Im not trying to lecture you, although Im just giving you information to make the right choice. Avenida Revolucin is a pretty safe area, and its well-trafficked by local police officers. Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and the Riviera Maya. Oddly enough, there are a few establishments there that are safer than others. There is a small risk of hurricanes, but generally only during the months right before and after a hurricane season. By the end of 2020, Tijuana accounted for at least 2,000 murders. Aside from a few hotspots of crime, most of Mexico is safe for tourists. Greyhound offers regular bus services from the San Diego Bus Station downtown (1313 National Ave.) to Tijuana Central Bus Station. The main reason for the astronomically high murder rate is the gang andcartel violencein the city. The beaches are beautiful and offer great swimming, snorkeling, and diving opportunities. The fact of the matter is, this happens and theres not much you can do about it. Even on streets regularly patrolled at night, you still risk becoming a victim. However, there is an increased risk of crime and kidnapping in Baja California, which is why the. The accomplice will either stomp your foot or literally strike you. Dont eat unwashed salad foods, theres a risk of E. Coli poisoning. It has high rates of violent crime and homicide, with a rate of 105 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants in 2022. Due to its proximity to the border, Tijuana and its surroundings are hotspots of cartel activity. One of the policemen removed McMillans credit card from his wallet, asked him for his PIN number and withdrew $400 from an ATM. The dealer gets a cut of the fine, and their racket continues with the next victim. If you want to see the world, go see it! Not all the taxis use their meters and can charge you a criminal price when you get to your destination. But the water in Mexico isnt safe to drink. Your belongings arent always safe when traveling, and you need to protect your, We know that living abroad as an expat can be an exciting and enriching experience, but it can also come with its own set of financial challenges. After all, much of the economy there is based on tourism from the United States. Stay in a secure hotel, hostel, or Airbnb instead of camping on the beach. The biggest threat in Tijuana is the drug cartel. The states attorney general reported that as of the end of 2021, Tijuana registered a staggering 1,761 murders. | 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. As a guide, you should pay around $5-7 for a taxi from the border to the Centro or . There have been many incidents of rape and aggression towards women in Tijuana. We may earn a commission when you click this link, at no extra cost to you. But you probably shouldnt. This is quite common in tourist areas down there, so watch out. They may demand bribes for traffic violations whether or not you actually violated any law. Visas - American and Canadian tourists can visit Tijuana for up to 72 hours without a visa. When downtown, you can visit historic landmarks, museums, art galleries, and cultural centers. There has been a spike in homicides in the last couple of years, due to drug-related gang violence. Tijuana is also home to some excellent museums, including the world-famous Museum of Anthropology. Weve all been there. Avoid Sanchez Taboada and Camino Verde, along with the citys neighborhoods. Tijuana is known for its nightlife, but drunks are frequent targets, especially walking alone. Is Baja safe? Should you drive? Things to know before you go In addition, you will notice more potholes and poorer road conditions than in San Diego, so drive slowly. However, there's no denying that Tijuana is a dangerous city. One of Tijuanas best assets is the delicious food. Traveling to Tijuana and Rosarito, Baja California, poses a "serious risk," according to US officials. 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. Tourists arent targeted for violence, but that doesnt mean you should tempt fate. A San Diego resident said, The worst thing that ever happened to me is I tend to trip on potholes on the sidewalk. I dont no if this cop was good or bad. Outside of the tourist district of Zona Centro, Zona Norte is probably one of the main reasons many travel to Tijuana. , some kidnapping victims claim that police officers have been involved in their kidnappings. The town was nothing but farmland until the early 20th century. 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. Its no joke down there in Zona Norte. Be wary of attempts at credit-card fraud. Additionally, there are plenty of officers around here, so you can always ask them if you get confused. You should have no problems if you avoid the bad areas and dont draw unwanted attention. Also, your car isnt safe in either parking locations along the border. Enjoy your trip! 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. Its not an easy place to live. Its a huge red-light district, and its the largest in North America. They will strike typically when youre in a crowded market or a busy area. Laws and lights are frequently ignored, and speeding is common. It is generally safe to take a licensed taxi in Tijuana, but its important to avoid unlicensed taxis and to be aware of your surroundings. The city has been plagued by drug cartels, gang violence, and human trafficking, leading to a rise in homicides and other violent crimes. Be safe in your hotel or across the border. To give you an idea, Tijuana closed out July 2021 with a whopping 190 murders. Despite the danger, many travelers have no issues when traveling to Tijuana. 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. Its a very safe area, but public transport isnt always available. They might get so frustrated they simply leave. Dont be overly paranoid. The key is to be aware of the risks and take precautions to stay safe. Looking back, his stomach dropped. Crime is another issue that should concern you. The easiest way to get from to Tijuana is via the San Diego Trolley, a tram that runs from downtown San Diego all the way to the San Ysidro border. In general, yes, Tijuana is a safe place for tourists to visit. Police arent helpful and can be extremely inappropriate. 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.. However, try to negotiate the price if you choose this option. During the day, in the safe neighborhoods and places, nothing will happen. 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. There are 134 murders per 100,000 people. According to theAustralian government, some kidnapping victims claim that police officers have been involved in their kidnappings. It's a regular trick of taxi drivers, who can up the cost of even short trips to astronomical levels. Its a good idea to visit them all but I recommend you go with a group. Drug deals are standard, which means that drug dealers and their henchmen are also present. So, count your change, ignore people approaching you on the street, and look at hotel reviews before you book. However, its important to weigh the risks and take precautions to stay safe if you do decide to go. Tourist Kidnappings on the Rise in Mexico | GoGirlfriend Going this weekend. They will use some type of tactic to win your trust and lure you into a less busy area. Its a bad look. 20 Places In Mexico Foreigners Should Never Set Foot In - TheTravel 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! However, bear in mind that it is illegal. Travellers Worldwide is reader-supported. Fortunately, most homicides are cartel-related and occur in neighborhoods tourists dont frequent. Most of the begging is going to occur right at the border and on Avenida Revolucin. While the cartels primary income source is not robbing tourists, thats not to say it never happens. 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. Street tacos are abundant, and its worth trying them at least once. Mainly, you want to avoid confrontation and eye contact with them. Locals, we go out in the city . This website is using cookies to analyze our traffic, personalize content and/or ads, and provide video content. However, it does have cartel activity, and crime is also a risk. Pichardo owns a travel company based in Tijuana. I know why youre most likely going there. The most common trouble Americans will face in Baja . The earthquake risk is very low in Tijuana. Not always. Dont have ice with drinks and only drink from factory-sealed bottles. Its essential to check the State Departments current travel advisory and recent safety alerts from the US Embassy in Mexico before your trip, so you are well-informed of any potential dangers. ). The city is a great base for exploring Baja Californias wine country, as well as the beaches and resorts on the Pacific coast. How To Visit Tijuana from San Diego - Complete Guide I was walking down the street with two police officers walking a head of me. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Cons are everywhere, from the taxi to your hotel and even tours. Well, the use of good judgment will determine how safe it will be for you. If youre just planning on spending a day or two in the city, head back, and you can have a great time. Tijuana is situated within the Mexican state of Baja California, and the heart of the city is only 5 miles from the Pacific coast. Dress casual. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. 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 . They sit at their stops until they have a full bus and then stop. However, not all doctors are professional or good at what they do. The cartels control important drug and human trafficking routes across the border. Take only the cash you need for the day and leave all other essential items in your hotel safe no matter where you go in Tijuana. Here you can learn more about the native people of this region by watching a film in the IMAX dome or seeing live performances in the Performance Hall. The same goes for Ensenada. Violent crime is possible as well. Some plastic surgeons may not have the proper licenses. Don't let this discourage you from visiting Mexico, however. Some of the safety measures that American tourists can take include: By following these safety measures, American tourists can greatly reduce their risk of becoming a victim of crime or violence while visiting Tijuana. Either go on a tour, drive down from California, rent a car in Mexico, or hire a private driver for the day. Happy travels! Crime rates in Tijuana. Mainly, you want to avoid confrontation and eye contact with them. 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. Wherever you stay, ask your hotel receptionist or Airbnb host about which areas are safe to visit. 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! And its been going up since 2017, because of a dispute over turf between the Nueva Generacin Jalisco and Sinaloa cartel. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. However, theres no denying that Tijuana is a dangerous city. It is the 6 th largest city in Mexico after all. The most common trouble Americans will face in Baja California is petty crime. 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. The vast majority of citizens in Tijuana want you to enjoy your stay. For short trips, yes. 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. Would want to leave our valuables at home and remember to carry small bills for shopping. It located outside Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico, near the U.S.-Mexico border. If you practice good safety and stick to crowded areas, you can have a great time on your trip. It is the lowest average temperature of the whole year. While they dont usually target tourists specifically, tourists may get caught up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police and cartels. Stratfor WorldView paints a different picture for both tourists and expats traveling to Tijuana. It truly is more trouble than its worth. Millions of Americans have taken day trips to Tijuana and continue to do so. And lastly, dont use any dangly bags or store your wallet in a loose pocket. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. Tijuana really is the wild west. With millions of people living within an urban landscape, hardly any civilians see any of the gang-violence themselves. Solo travel in Mexico can make one feel very vulnerable at times - though that goes for anywhere, especially in Latin America. Pickpocketing, muggings, and home break-ins are all risks to be wary of. At best, if you get too drunk and pass out, youll be robbed. You can still be a victim in a tourist zone if you are not being careful. Don't Drive: Driving to Tijuana from San Diego is possibly the absolute worst way to go there.In theory, it's easy. To Americans raised to trust "Officer Friendly," the concept of police and public official corruption may seem difficult to grasp. Why Medical Tourism Is Drawing Patients, Even in a Pandemic They arrange you the hotel and a driver to take you from the border to the hotel and drs office. Take the Plunge: 8 Affordable and Incredible Diving Destinations You Dont Want to Miss Out On! Additionally, there are plenty of reports of car theft and break-ins within these parking lots. Currency - The currency of Mexico is the peso . Water in Mexico is often contaminated with parasites or bacteria, which can make you sick. 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. if you have to go somewhere after the sun goes down. The most dangerous neighborhoods in Tijuana are those that are known for being a center of drug trafficking and organized crime. Its a very safe area, but public transport isnt always available. Its best to avoid Ensenadas red light district as well. Make sure all foods are heated all the way through. Zona Norte, also known as Hong Kong District, is one of the most dangerous and highly trafficked tourist areas. Colectivos are another great option. SEATTLE . Start Here Mexico Is Tijuana Safe to Visit in 2023? So, once the sun ducks below the horizon, you should be solidly inside your hotel. The dealer gets a cut of the fine, and their racket continues with the next victim. However, there is an increased risk of crime and kidnapping in Baja California, which is why the State Departmenthas released a Level 3 Reconsider Travel advisory for Baja California state. Tijuana is Mexico's 6th largest city, and it's most dangerous. The second type is a pickpocket with an accomplice, although they arent as sneaky. New York and Chicago have higher crime rates than Baja California. Police responded to a report of a . To protect yourself and your valuables, you should take extra precautions in Zona Nortes red-light district. The corruption is rampant, but that doesnt mean all the police officers are out for a buck. As you walk, there will be taxi drivers along the pathway offering their driving services. This is not a city to get lost in. 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