Tijuana Warnings and Dangers
Tijuana has a thriving nightlife and fantastic restaurant. But it’s also known for its notorious red light district and high crime rate. Heed these Tijuana warnings and dangers to stay safe on your trip.
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Calle Coahuila (Red Light District)
Calle Coahuila is Tijuana’s infamous red light district. There are go-go bars, dance halls, and inexpensive food vendors throughout. But locals characterize it as dangerous for tourists. It’s teeming with crooked police, sex workers, and other unsavory characters. Even the streets themselves may be something of a danger—some visitors report that deep cracks within the concrete sidewalks might cause tripping hazards.
Smooth Criminals
Another common Tijuana danger are smooth criminals—the fast talkers in restaurants and bars who provide you with one price for a dish or drink and turn around and charge something else when they present you with the bill. It’s best to exit quickly if such an occasion arises and you’re tempted to argue. Locals won’t take kindly to a tourist’s protests, and it’s not worth the potential visit from a cop or even a trip to the local jail.
Young Beggars and Money
It’s not uncommon to come across a children selling small goods in exchange for cash, while others perform some sort of act for your entertainment. You might be treated to a song and a dance, but in more dire circumstances the child may simply beg for money. Bring spare change to give them if you’re so inclined.
Traveling with money is all right, but be careful about where you keep it. Some people recommend keeping just a few dollars in your wallet and the rest in the sole of your shoe. Being robbed is a typical Tijuana fear, and while it’s not a guarantee, it’s always best to make it difficult for such things to happen.
Traveling by Car
Even in the best of times, it can be trying to operate a vehicle in a different country. Yet in Mexico, it takes some extra caution. Maintain insurance for the duration of your visit, and be sure to check your coverage if you rented a car outside the country, as it’s not always a given that it will include travel in Mexico. Finally, be mindful of cab drivers who navigate streets with reckless abandon and may not be too careful around red lights and stop signs.
More from SmarterTravel:
- Safety Tips in Tijuana – Travel Safety Tips
- Taxi Cab, Tijuana – Transportation
- Tijuana Nightlife – Clubs, Bars & Nightlife Tips
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Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Tijuana warnings and dangers.
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