Tijuana is a city located in Baja California, Mexico, which, despite its misleading reputation has become a popular place for tourists and vacationers because of its local attractions, beautiful sandy beaches, restaurants, lively bars, art galleries, and inexpensive cost of living.
Because Tijuana is a border city located between San Diego USA and Mexico, you might wonder if you need a passport to go to Tijuana.
Do You Need A Passport to Go to Tijuana?
Yes, you need a passport to go to Tijuana. You’re expected to carry your passport when traveling to a different country, and Tijuana, a border city is no exception. However, a US citizen, crossing the border on land only needs a passport when crossing back into the US.
How is that possible?
Let me explain.
A US citizen can spend up to 72 hours in Mexico without a passport, however, to gain entry back into the US will require a valid passport, a US passport card, a trusted traveler program card like, NEXUS or SENTRI, or a driver’s license. A person who is not a citizen of the US might also need to present their green card.
If you are thinking of crossing the border by land into Tijuana, you will need a Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM), which is a form that can be acquired at all land borders, it is mandatory for all tourists going into Mexico. The FMM gives visitors access to the country, provided they do not leave the “free zone”, which is within 22 miles/35km of the border, once you go beyond this area, you will be charged a fee of about $22.
Is It Safe in Tijuana For Individuals and Families?
Yes, it is completely safe to travel to Tijuana alone or with family, as long as you follow necessary safety precautions like not flashing expensive items and being wary of strangers.
Tijuana, despite having a reputation for prostitution, violence and crime is relatively safe in comparison to the rest of Mexico. People think it is a dangerous city because of the frequent territorial disputes, and numerous muggings. The fact that it is located close to areas with high crime rates doesn’t help either, but since it became a popular spot for tourists and visitors, the neighborhoods known for tourism are some of the safest areas as they are heavily policed to ensure the safety of tourists.
So, if you are visiting Tijuana, it is advised that you stay in safe neighborhoods like Zona Centro, Zona Norte, and Zona Rio; and as long as you do not wander into dangerous areas and keep your wits with you, you’re sure to enjoy a fun and safe time in Tijuana.
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Best Place to Party in Tijuana
There are many nice places to party and have fun in Tijuana, and these are some of the best:
- Dandy del Sur
- Teorema/Lúdica Co-Tasting Room
- Border Psycho Brewery
- El Enchiloso
- La Cava De Don Chava
- Palermo Night Club
- Coko Bongo
- Altitude Sky Lounge
- El Alebrije
- Caesar’s
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Things to Do in Tijuana At Night
Tijuana, with its unique and vibrant nightlife culture, easily became a getaway for Americans looking for tequila and other things that were prohibited in the US. Even after the prohibition, it is still a place for Americans and tourists looking for a fun night out.
These are some things you could do in Tijuana at night:
1. Go drinking
There are several good bars to go drinking at, imagine a night of drinking at nice bars and pubs with family and friends, sounds like fun, right? These are some of the best places for that:
- Dandy Del Sur Cantina
- La Mescalero
- Teorema/Lúdica Co
- Buda
2. Eat Out
Why not enjoy the culinary diversity that Tijuana has to offer by dining at the best restaurants and enjoying delicious food? Here are some great places to go:
- Villa Marina Restaurant
- La Querencia Restaurant
- Mision 19
- Caesar’s
3. Visit Revolución Avenue
The best way to spend your night out is a walk through Revolución Avenue, one of the most popular spots for tourists, with bars, restaurants, and lots of activities.
4. Go dancing
Enjoy yourself by dancing the night away at popular clubs like:
- El Alebrije
- Deck 22
- Las Pulgas
- Marco Disco
5. Visit Cine Tonala
It is an art-house movie theatre, with delicious food, live music, and a beautiful display of Mexican culture.
Conclusion
Before traveling, it is important to know all the travel rules, restrictions and requirements because these things change often, and always remember to carry your passports when traveling, to enjoy a safe and easy journey.
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