Mexico
My day in Tijuana left such a lasting impression that I'm already planning my return!
My Experience
The anticipation of visiting Mexico was incredibly high as soon as I arrived into America. The desire to experience the incredible food, rich history and vibrant culture had been on my radar for some time. Unfortunately, I could only spare a day to cross the border, but that one day alone left such a lasting impression on me that I am already eagerly anticipating my next journey back. Mexico always invites you to discover its many treasures and embrace its vibrant spirit and I am excited to finally be able to share some unique features about this incredible country.
I was fortunate enough to have a knowledgeable tour guide who showed me around Tijuana, allowing me to explore all the sights, immerse myself in the local markets and indulge in the delicious cuisine. Let me tell you, until you’ve tasted authentic Mexican food, you haven’t truly experienced its incredible flavours and mouth-watering dishes. Trying the local food and beverages were one of the main highlights of this trip. I can’t explain how unique and delicious the food is in Mexico compared to anywhere else in the world. In fact, I would go as far as saying that their food is the one of the best I have ever had while travelling. The tacos and enchiladas from the local trucks were absolutely perfect. And let’s not forget about the amazing cocktails and beverages that were recommended to me throughout the day
Must-See Places
Farmers Market
I was really excited about this guided tour because it allowed us to explore the local markets and discover a wide range of souvenirs, foods, and crafts to purchase during the day. One of the first stops on our tour was Mercado Hidalgo, which is a farmer’s market that consists of locally grown products and unique home-made crafts. Needless to say, I couldn’t resist taking the advantage of the opportunity to purchase some wonderful items to remember this trip by. The local guide had extensive knowledge about the distinct spices, fruits and vegetables for sale. He had established strong relationships with the local sellers, enabling us to taste the exceptional flavours and avail discounted prices on any purchases we desired. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to truly embrace the local lifestyle and delve into the vibrant culture of Mexico. Even if you decide against a guided, tour, this is the perfect way to experience the authentic essence of the country.
Tijuana Experiences
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the rich culture, history and attractions of Tijuana, then the Tijuana Cultural Centre should be at the top of your list. It is situated in the vibrant Zona Rio district, which boasts the city’s largest shopping mall and a plethora of popular hotels and restaurants. This area offers endless opportunities for explorations and immersion into the local lifestyle. The culture centre is designed to promote cultural tourism and is a relatively new addition to the cityscape. When you arrive inside, you’ll find the fascinating ‘Museo de las Califorias’ which is a permanent exhibition, along with a rotating selection of captivating temporary exhibits. The Museo de las Calfornias take you on a journey through the history of Baja Peninsula, from ancient times to the modern era. The experience consists of replica paintings and a journey of significant historical events. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a dose of cultural enrichment, this cultural centre is a must-visit destination to be added to your list.
Unforgettable Moments
Telefonica Gastro Park
Telefonica Gastro Park is the ultimate destination for food enthusiasts looking to indulge in a wide variety of delights. With its exceptional selection of indoor and outdoor food options including the food trucks, you will leave yearning for more. Whether you’re craving local delicacies or international flavours, this gastronomic haven has it all. Trust me, don’t waste your time on fancy restaurants. The local food trucks are the way to go for the ultimate experience. The cost of food may differ based on the place of choice, but I spent approximately $15 (USD) on a delicious local taco, fries and an exceptional sangria (which truly stands out among the best I’ve ever had).
View here →Downtown Experiences
My final suggestion is to take advantage of the local tour guide expertise if you decide to go along with a tour experience. With my own guide, I had the opportunity to embark on a captivating walking tour of Tijuana, delving into the city’s culture, discovering hidden gems and dispelling any misconceptions that have been unfairly portrayed. However, if you choose to explore independently. I recommend a visit to Avenida Revolucion, the bustling heart of downtown. Here, you’ll stumble upon the fascinating Paseo de Las Estrellas, a unique replica of Hollywood’s walk of fame. This interesting feature has stirred quite a bit of controversy among the locals and the public and is a unique place to learn more about the stars of Tijuana. If you are looking to embark on a day tour from America, particularly from San Diego; I highly suggest checking out the Air BnB experience which I personally found to be an exceptional adventure.
Book here →Tips & Recommendations
Top Tips
- •Try the Sangria
- •Don't forget to try visit local areas
- •Excellent day tours
Food Recommendations
- •Local tacos from food trucks (absolutely perfect!)
- •Fries from food trucks
- •Fruits and vegetables from farmer's market
What to Pack
- ✓Cash (USD and pesos), water bottle and don't forget a camera for getting those unforgettable experiences
Photo Gallery
Local Streets
Fresh Mexican Beer
Adventures exploring Tijuana
Enjoying the local sunshine
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Year-round warm weather. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures. Summer can be hot. Winter mild and comfortable.
Budget
Very affordable - excellent value!Getting Around
Day tours from San Diego very popular and convenient. Guided tours include transportation and local expertise. Walking downtown Tijuana is easy.
Language
Spanish. English spoken in tourist areas. Tour guides very helpful for translation and cultural context.
Currency & Costs
US Dollar (USD) and Mexican Peso (MXN) both accepted. Budget-Friendly
Accommodation
Most visitors do day trips from San Diego. Tijuana has hotels if staying overnight, but border crossing day tours are very popular and convenient.
My Rating
Would I return?
Absolutely!
Tijuana is an exhilarating and dynamic city that offers a combination of rich history, delicious cuisine and excellent culture. There is an abundance of opportunities in Mexico for all types of explorers and anyone that is intrigued should not hesitate to include it in their list of destinations. Personally, I am determined to prioritise a return trip to Mexico and eagerly anticipate sharing further extraordinary adventures from this remarkable country.